Every time friends visit Xi’an, I make it a point to take them to the iconic Big Wild Goose Pagoda and its nearby attractions. After numerous outings, I’ve crafted a seamless itinerary that ensures no backtracking while covering all aspects of eating, drinking, and enjoying local culture. This guide outlines a perfect summer day itinerary, making the most of what the area has to offer, from historical experiences to vibrant nightlife.
Start Your Day at the Chang’an Twelve Hours Theme District
Begin your day at the Chang’an Twelve Hours theme district, a newly opened immersive experience that transports you back to the Tang Dynasty. This indoor attraction faithfully recreates classic scenes from the popular drama, including the Jing’an Si (靖安司) and watchtowers, featuring live NPCs to enhance the experience. The area is filled with engaging activities, including performances, dining options, and even costume rentals for those wanting to dress in traditional Tang attire. With an admission fee of 128 yuan, this lively spot is perfect for young adults and can easily fill your afternoon with excitement.
Explore Tang City of Eternal Night
After experiencing the charm of Chang’an Twelve Hours, a quick five-minute walk to the right will take you to Tang City of Eternal Night (大唐不夜城). This area offers a leisurely stroll with beautiful views of the Big Wild Goose Pagoda. While it’s great for exploring, I recommend taking your time to soak in the ambiance without feeling rushed.
Dine at Dayuecheng
Continue north for about ten minutes to reach Dayuecheng (大悦城), a shopping center located southwest of the Big Wild Goose Pagoda. Here, you can enjoy a meal with stunning views of the pagoda from the rooftop terrace. The panoramic vista includes the entire Tang City of Eternal Night, Qujiang Pool, W Hotel, and even the distant Qinling Mountains, making it a perfect dining backdrop.
Stroll through Poetic Lanterns
After dining, exit Dayuecheng from gate 3, where you’ll encounter the Poetic Lanterns. This creative installation, newly added this year, features beautifully designed lanterns that create a dreamy and poetic atmosphere, perfect for capturing stunning photos.
Experience the Roly-Poly Performer
Continue walking north for about ten minutes until you reach the Roly-Poly performer (不倒翁小姐姐). Initially, I was skeptical about how impressive a performer dressed in Tang attire could be, but I was genuinely blown away after seeing her. The experience feels like stepping back a thousand years. Be sure to arrive early and queue for a chance to interact with her up close; this interaction is truly delightful and memorable.
Watch the Big Wild Goose Pagoda Fountain Show
After enjoying the performance, you can turn around and head to the Big Wild Goose Pagoda Fountain. Make sure to position yourself in the middle on the north side of the fountain for the best view. The fountain show lasts only ten minutes but is well worth your time. Shows are scheduled for 7 PM and 9 PM, and you can adjust the order of visiting the fountain and the Roly-Poly performer based on your schedule.
Free Rooftop Music Festival at the Xi’an Film Studio
If you’re visiting on a Friday, Saturday, or Sunday, don’t miss the free rooftop music festival at the Xi’an Film Studio (西安电影制片厂) after completing your earlier stops. A mere ten-minute walk east from the fountain leads you to this vibrant venue. Local singers perform atop red-brick film studio roofs, often covering popular songs from artists like Mayday and Jay Chou, fostering an atmosphere filled with joy and camaraderie. The experience is amplified with the nearby trunk market, where you can grab a cocktail and relax, wrapping up your perfect day in Xi’an.