The Small Wild Goose Pagoda is located on the central axis of the Jianfu Temple in south Xi'an. As a national AAAA scenic spot and a world heritage site, the Buddhist pagoda survives from the Tang Dynasty (618-907). Tourists can learn about the history and culture of Xi'an by visiting the pagoda and the Xi'an Museum in the southwest of the temple. The pagoda is not as famous as the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, but is more peaceful and tranquil. As part of the artistic heritage of Buddhist architectures of the Tang Dynasty, it witnessed how Buddhism was introduced to China and integrated with the culture of Han nationality.
Inside the pagoda, a narrow wooden stairway winds its way to the top, requiring quite an effort by those making the ascent. Children and seniors with poor physical condition are not recommended to ascend. Additionally, it is hard for larger people to pass through the narrow stairway on the upper floors.
There is a small open platform on the top due to the missing two floors. Please be aware that it is very small, allowing only ten people at one time. For tourists successfully reaching the top, it is a special experience to have a bird’s eye view of the whole temple through the broken top. One can even see a panoramic view of the ancient city of Xi'an on clear days.
In 1487, a violent earthquake occurred and caused the Small Wild Goose Pagoda to crack in the middle. The crack was over 0.33 meter (1.1 feet). In another violent earthquake in 1521, the crack disappeared and the two parts of the pagoda magically combined with each other overnight. People felt very confused and called it “Magical Combination”.
The mystery was revealed during the restoration after 1949. The reason why the Small Wild Goose Pagoda can withstand dozens of earthquakes is that wise ancient craftsmen have formed its foundation as a hemisphere of rammed earth. In this way, pressure can be distributed evenly when an earthquake happens. Just like a never-fall doll, the flexible and stable pagoda can survive these storms and earthquakes.