Big Wild Goose Pagoda 大雁塔

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There are two Wild Goose Pagodas in Xi'an. I only visited the Big one.

On the south side of town, just outside the wall, the grounds can be divided into three parts: the pagoda (built in 642), the temple (also old but being restored), and the gardeny, parky, shopping area surrounding it.

The cost to get into the temple was 50 RMB and did NOT include admission to the pagoda; that's another 35 RMB, payable once you're inside the temple. The signs outside were a bit vague about this, and we didn't realize it until after we'd gotten inside the temple. Pretty sneaky, guys. The temple was beautiful and the Dutchmen and I spent quite a bit of time walking through and admiring the gardens and architecture. We opted to not buy admission tickets to the pagoda, though I'm sure the views would have been impressive.

The free area outside the temple was quite a bit of fun and rather expansive. Lots to see and do and eat and even a few places to sit and rest your weary feet. While my friends shopped for trinkets, I enjoyed a good deal of people watching and warm sunshine.

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Photos

The Pagoda
Don't be fooled, you can't go inside unless you pay extra.

Like father, like son
I liked the people watching outside the pagoda and temple.

So much for "Don't walk on the grass"
I liked the people watching outside the pagoda and temple.

Fountain Fun
I liked the people watching outside the pagoda and temple.

He's really into this shot
I love this photo.

In the temple
I love this photo, too.

The pagoda
Different angle