The North Square of Da Ci'en Temple in Yanta District sits directly south of the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, with Asia's largest musical fountain spanning the plaza in front of it. Positioning at the plaza's midpoint facing north captures the pagoda rising behind the fountain's jets, especially during the scheduled evening musical fountain show, when the jets are backlit by the pagoda's floodlighting and choreographed to music. A position along the plaza's raised seating steps gives an elevated angle over the crowd toward both fountain and pagoda. The show typically runs in the evening after dark; check for a reduced schedule in winter months, when performances may run less frequently. Spring and autumn evenings offer comfortable viewing temperatures, while summer draws the largest crowds for the show. The plaza fills densely at showtime, with the best sightlines along the central axis claimed well before the fountain starts; arriving 30-45 minutes early secures a spot. A tripod is generally permitted on the open plaza, since it is a public square rather than a ticketed venue, though spray from the fountain can reach several rows back and gear should be shielded or kept clear of the water's edge. Drones are restricted this close to the temple grounds. There is no fee to view the square or fountain show itself; the Da Ci'en Temple and pagoda interior require a separate ticket, around 50 RMB.
| Best time | Evening during the scheduled musical fountain show, when jets are backlit by the illuminated pagoda |
|---|---|
| Best season | Year-round; check for reduced winter showtimes |
| Address | North Square, No. 1 Ci'en Road, Yanta District, Xi'an 710061 |
Shooting notes
- Equipment
- Tripod for fountain long exposures, Telephoto zoom to isolate the pagoda above the water jets, Weather-sealed gear or a rain cover, as fountain spray can drift toward the crowd
Location
North Square, No. 1 Ci'en Road, Yanta District, Xi'an 710061
34.2210, 108.9601 View on map
Highlights
- Big Wild Goose Pagoda floodlit above the choreographed fountain jets
- Musical fountain show synchronized to music each evening
- Elevated plaza steps offering a crowd-clearing vantage point
- Reflections of the pagoda in the fountain's still pools before the show starts
Tips for visiting
- Arrive 30-45 minutes before the scheduled show to claim a central-axis position
- Use a tripod for long exposures of the water jets, keeping it a few rows back from spray
- A telephoto zoom isolates the pagoda above the fountain without foreground clutter
- Bring a rain cover or weather-sealed body, since fountain spray can drift with the wind
- Restrooms are available around the plaza's perimeter near the temple's south gate
When to visit
Evening during the scheduled musical fountain show, when the pagoda's floodlighting backlights the choreographed jets; confirm winter showtimes in advance.
Frequently asked questions
When does the musical fountain show run?
It runs in the evening after dark, though the schedule may be reduced or less frequent during winter months.
Is there a fee to watch the fountain show?
No, viewing the North Square and fountain show is free; only entering Da Ci'en Temple and the pagoda itself requires a separate ticket, about 50 RMB.
Can a tripod be set up on the square?
Yes, tripods are generally fine on the open public plaza, though it's worth staying back a few rows from the fountain's spray zone.
How crowded does the square get for the show?
Very crowded, especially in summer; arriving 30-45 minutes early is recommended to secure a clear sightline.