Big Wild Goose Pagoda | Xi an

The Big Wild Goose Pagoda (大雁塔, Dà Yàn Tǎ) is a famous Buddhist pagoda located in Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, China. It is one of the city's most iconic landmarks and an important cultural and historical site. The pagoda has stood for over a millennium and is a symbol of both the city of Xi'an and the Tang Dynasty. The Big Wild Goose Pagoda is part of the Da Ci'en Temple complex and holds significant religious and historical importance as well as architectural value.

History and Background:

Construction and Origins:

• The Big Wild Goose Pagoda was built in 652 CE during the reign of the Tang Dynasty under the direction of Empress Wu Zetian. It was constructed to house the Buddhist scriptures and relics that were brought back from India by the famous Buddhist monk Xuanzang.
• Xuanzang made a legendary journey to India during the 7th century to study Buddhist teachings and to retrieve important scriptures. After his return, the pagoda was built to store these precious texts and relics, and it became a central part of the Da Ci'en Temple complex.

Name and Symbolism:

• The pagoda is known as the "Big Wild Goose Pagoda" because, according to legend, it was originally intended to resemble the flight of a wild goose. The "wild goose" also symbolizes the idea of spreading the teachings of Buddhism.
• There is also a popular legend associated with the pagoda, which states that a wild goose guided the builders to the site where the pagoda would be constructed.

Architectural Design:

• The Big Wild Goose Pagoda is a seven-story structure and stands at 64 meters (210 feet) tall, making it one of the tallest and oldest brick pagodas in China.
• The pagoda was constructed using brick and wood, and it features a square base with gradually narrowing floors as it ascends. The shape of the pagoda is typical of traditional Chinese Buddhist architecture, with the pagoda’s tiered structure intended to represent the Buddhist cosmology and the journey towards enlightenment.
• The pagoda’s construction incorporates elements of Chinese architectural styles from the Tang Dynasty, with sweeping, curved roofs at each tier. The pagoda is characterized by elegant proportions, and the roofline is often adorned with decorative tiles and eaves that curve upward.

Renovations and Preservation:

• Over the centuries, the Big Wild Goose Pagoda has undergone multiple renovations and repairs, particularly during the Ming Dynasty. It has been restored and maintained by the local government to preserve its cultural significance.
• The pagoda was originally built as a wooden structure, but it was rebuilt in brick after it was damaged by earthquakes and other natural disasters. The current structure has remained largely intact, despite several centuries of wear and tear.

Cultural and Religious Significance:

Buddhist Importance:

• The Big Wild Goose Pagoda is an important site for Buddhism, particularly Mahayana Buddhism, which became dominant in China during the Tang Dynasty. The pagoda’s main function was to house the Buddhist scriptures and relics brought back by Xuanzang, and it continues to be a place of religious pilgrimage.
• The pagoda’s connection to Xuanzang has made it one of the most revered Buddhist sites in China. Xuanzang’s journey to India and his translation of Buddhist scriptures into Chinese were instrumental in spreading Buddhism in China. The Big Wild Goose Pagoda thus symbolizes both the spread of Buddhism and the exchange of knowledge between East and West.

Xuanzang’s Legacy:

• Xuanzang (602–664 CE) is one of China’s most famous monks and scholars. His journey to India and his extensive translation work helped to make the teachings of Buddhism more accessible to Chinese speakers. His pilgrimage is celebrated in Chinese culture, and the Big Wild Goose Pagoda serves as a testament to his scholarly achievements.
• The Journey to the West—a famous Chinese novel that tells the story of a monk’s pilgrimage to India—is inspired by Xuanzang’s life and his travels. Although the novel is a work of fiction, Xuanzang’s real-life story remains an inspiration for many.

Features and Visitor Experience:

View from the Top:

• Visitors can climb the seven stories of the Big Wild Goose Pagoda to reach the top, where they are rewarded with a spectacular view of the surrounding area, including the city of Xi'an and the beautiful Xianyang area. From the top, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of the entire Da Ci'en Temple complex and the surrounding gardens.
• The pagoda’s elevation provides an excellent vantage point for admiring the city’s mix of ancient and modern architecture, including the remnants of Xi'an's ancient city wall.

Da Ci'en Temple Complex:

• The Big Wild Goose Pagoda is located within the Da Ci'en Temple complex, which includes other buildings and structures, such as halls, statues, and gardens. The temple grounds are peaceful and provide a serene atmosphere for contemplation and reflection.
• The temple features statues of Buddha, and there are gardens where visitors can relax and enjoy the surroundings. The complex is also a popular site for Buddhist prayer and meditation.

Cultural and Artistic Exhibitions:

• The Big Wild Goose Pagoda and the Da Ci'en Temple are also home to various cultural and artistic exhibits, including displays on the life of Xuanzang, the history of Buddhism in China, and the art of Buddhist sculpture and painting.
• The museum offers visitors an in-depth look into the religious, cultural, and historical significance of the pagoda, with exhibitions detailing the construction of the pagoda, the Buddhist scriptures it housed, and the artistic styles associated with Buddhist architecture during the Tang Dynasty.

Lighting and Night Views:

• The Big Wild Goose Pagoda is beautifully illuminated at night, providing a stunning sight when lit up against the night sky. The pagoda is often lit in vibrant colors, and its reflection can be seen in the surrounding ponds and gardens.
• The surrounding area also features light displays and nighttime performances, creating a magical atmosphere that draws visitors after dark.

Cultural Festivals:

• The area around the Big Wild Goose Pagoda is a popular venue for various cultural events, including traditional Chinese music performances, art exhibitions, and religious festivals. The pagoda itself hosts special Buddhist ceremonies, particularly during religious holidays like Lunar New Year and Buddha’s Birthday.

Conclusion:

The Big Wild Goose Pagoda is one of China’s most important cultural and historical landmarks, offering visitors a glimpse into the country’s rich Buddhist heritage, architectural brilliance, and spiritual traditions. Its architectural design, religious significance, and connection to Xuanzang’s legendary journey make it an essential part of Xi'an's historical landscape. Whether visitors come for the views, the religious experience, or the opportunity to learn about the ancient roots of Chinese Buddhism, the Big Wild Goose Pagoda continues to stand as a monumental reminder of China’s cultural and spiritual legacy.