Xi’an Temple Guide: How to Pay, What to See, and Avoiding Scams

First things first: Xi’an is not just about Terracotta Warriors (though, yes, go see them). For me, the soul of this city is in its temples—ancient, buzzing with life, and full of stories that stick with you long after you leave. But here’s the thing: paying for temples in Xi’an can be a bit tricky if you’re not prepared. Some take cash only, others have sneaky “extra fees,” and a few might try to scam you if you’re not careful. So, after wandering through temples (and learning the hard way), I put together this guide to help you skip the headaches and focus on the magic.

Top Temples to Visit: What You’ll Pay (and Why It’s Worth It)

Xi’an has dozens of temples, but a few are must-sees for first-timers. Here’s the lowdown on each, including ticket prices, what’s included, and payment tips.

a. Big Wild Goose Pagoda (大雁塔, Dà Yàn Tǎ) – Daytime

This is probably the first temple you’ll hear about—and for good reason. Built in 652 AD to hold sutras brought back by monk Xuanzang, it’s a symbol of Xi’an. But here’s the catch: “Big Wild Goose Pagoda” actually refers to two things: the pagoda itself (you can climb it) and the surrounding Daci’en Temple (大慈恩寺), which is free to enter.

Xi’an Temple Guide: How to Pay, What to See, and Avoiding Scams

• What you pay:

  • Daci’en Temple (grounds): FREE. Yep, the entire temple complex, including the gardens and halls, is free to walk around.
  • Climbing the pagoda: 30 RMB (about $4). Totally worth it—the view from the top is stunning, and you’ll see the pagoda’s up-close architecture (plus, there’s a small exhibit inside about Xuanzang’s journey).

• Payment tip: They take both cash and WeChat/Alipay at the pagoda entrance. But just in case, bring some cash—sometimes the ticket machines glitch.

b. Small Wild Goose Pagoda (小雁塔, Xiǎo Yàn Tǎ)

Less crowded than Big Wild Goose Pagoda, this one’s a hidden gem. Built in 707 AD, it’s shorter (43 meters vs. Big Goose’s 64 meters) but feels more intimate, surrounded by a peaceful park (Jianfu Temple,荐福寺).

• What you pay:

  • Jianfu Temple + Small Wild Goose Pagoda: 50 RMB ($7). This includes entry to the temple grounds, the pagoda (you can climb it—great views!), and a small museum with ancient Buddhist artifacts.

• Payment tip: Cash only at the ticket booth. I learned this the hard way—my phone died, and they didn’t take QR codes. Bring at least 60 RMB per person to be safe.

c. Famen Temple (法门寺, Fǎmén Sì)

If you have a full day to spare, go here. It’s 120 km outside Xi’an (about 2 hours by bus), but it’s one of Buddhism’s most holy sites. Why? Because it holds the finger bone relic of Buddha—yes, the real one (or so they say). The temple complex is massive, with a modern museum and an ancient pagoda.

• What you pay:

  • Entry: 120 RMB ($17).
  • Finger Bone Relic Hall: 30 RMB extra ($4). Do not skip this—it’s the highlight, with the relic displayed in a underground vault (super atmospheric, with dim lights and chanting).

• Payment tip: Cash and digital pay both work at the main entrance, but the relic hall might only take cash. Pro tip: Take the tourist bus from Xi’an Railway Station (30 RMB round trip, 1.5 hours each way)—way easier than driving.

d. Guangren Temple (广仁寺, Guǎng Rén Sì)

Tucked away in the city center, this Tibetan Buddhist temple is often overlooked—and that’s the best part. It’s small, quiet, and feels like a secret. The architecture is stunning (golden roofs, colorful prayer wheels), and there’s a 600-year-old bronze Buddha inside.

• What you pay: FREE. Yes, free. No ticket, no hidden fees. Just donations if you want (there’s a box by the main hall).

• Payment tip: None needed! But if you buy incense (5 RMB a bundle, at the entrance), they take cash.

Payment Methods in Xi’an Temples: What to Prepare

Okay, let’s talk money. China is mostly cashless, but temples are a mixed bag. Here’s what you need to know:

a. Cash is Still King (Sometimes)

Many smaller temples (like Small Wild Goose Pagoda) or “extra” spots (like relic halls) only take cash. ATMs are everywhere in Xi’an (in malls, 7-Elevens, near major attractions), so withdraw 200-300 RMB per person at the start of your trip. Pro tip: Banks at airports/train stations have English ATMs, but downtown ones might not—use Bank of China or ICBC for easier English options.

b. WeChat Pay & Alipay: Your Digital Lifeline

For bigger temples (Big Wild Goose Pagoda, Famen Temple) and any souvenirs/food inside, WeChat Pay or Alipay are your best friends. But here’s the catch: you need a Chinese bank card to link them… unless you use a “tourist wallet”!

• How to set up WeChat Pay as a tourist:

  1. Open WeChat, go to “Me” → “Services” → “Wallet.”
  2. Tap “+” next to “Payment Methods” → “Add Bank Card.”
  3. Enter your passport number, and some international cards (like Visa/Mastercard) work now! But if not, use a service like “WeChat Pay Pass” (you can add foreign currency to it—look for “+” in the wallet).

• Alipay for tourists: Similar to WeChat. Open Alipay → “Me” → “Payment Methods” → “Add Bank Card.” International cards sometimes work, but if not, use “AlipayHK” (if you’re in Hong Kong) or ask your hotel to help you set up a “tourist account.”

c. Credit Cards: Rare but Possible

Major hotels and big-ticket attractions (like Terracotta Warriors) take credit cards, but most temples—even big ones—don’t. Don’t rely on your card; bring cash as a backup.

Common Temple Scams (and How to Avoid Them)

Xi’an is safe, but like any tourist spot, there are a few tricks to watch out for. Here’s what I learned:

a. The “Fake Monk” Scam

You’ll see monks (or people dressed as monks) offering to tie “blessed bracelets” on your wrist. They’ll chat with you, tie the bracelet, and then demand 50-100 RMB. Don’t pay. Real monks don’t ask for money. If someone approaches you, just smile, say “No thanks,” and walk away.

b. Overpriced Incense

At temple entrances, vendors might try to sell you “special” incense for 100 RMB a bundle. You can buy incense inside the temple for 5-10 RMB a bundle—it’s the same, just cheaper. Pro tip: Only buy incense if you really want to use it; most temples don’t require it, and you can just pray without it.

c. “Extra Fee” Traps

Some temples (especially smaller ones) might say “photography fee” or “special exhibition fee” after you’ve already paid entry. Always ask before you pay: “Is this price for everything?” If they hesitate, walk away—legitimate temples list all fees clearly at the entrance.

Bonus Tips for a Smooth Temple Visit

• Timing is everything: Go early! Most temples open at 8 AM, and by 10 AM, they’re packed with tour groups. I went to Small Wild Goose Pagoda at 8:30 AM, and it was just me and a few locals—so peaceful.
• Dress modestly: Temples are religious sites. Cover your shoulders and knees (no shorts, tank tops, or short skirts). Bring a scarf or shawl to drape over your shoulders if needed.
• Wear comfy shoes: You’ll be walking a lot—temples are huge, and you’ll want to climb pagodas (lots of stairs!).
• Bring water: Summer in Xi’an is hot (35°C+), and many temples don’t have water fountains. Buy a bottle at a 7-Eleven before you go.
• Download offline maps: Google Maps doesn’t work well in China. Use Baidu Maps (download the “Xi’an Temple Map” offline) or ask your hotel to write temple names in Chinese (e.g., 大雁塔, Dà Yàn Tǎ) so you can show taxi drivers.

Final Thoughts

Xi’an’s temples are more than just tourist spots—they’re living history. You’ll smell incense burning, hear monks chanting, and see locals praying, and it’s a reminder that some things never change. By prepping for payments and avoiding scams, you can relax and soak it all in. So grab your cash, charge your phone, and go explore. You won’t regret it.

Safe travels, and enjoy the temples—they’re the heart of Xi’an! 🙏