Step into the Mahavira Hall and be awed by its millennium-old grandeur! This crown jewel of Xi'an's Buddhist culture dazzles with gilded statues and intricate murals whispering tales of Tang Dynasty glory. The swirling incense and chanting rhythms transport you through time. Pro tip: Visit at dawn to savor serene spirituality sans crowds, and don't miss staring up at those Ming-era ceiling paintings—each brushstroke is a masterpiece that stuns even modern artisans!

This hotel boasts a prime location—just a 5-minute walk to the subway station with free parking, making it easy to explore the Shaanxi History Museum and shopping districts. The elegant modern design is complemented by family-friendly amenities and a fitness center, perfect for both leisure and business. Enjoy a peaceful sleep with soundproof rooms and luxurious bedding. The attentive front desk, laundry services, and multi-function meeting rooms ensure a seamless stay. Whether for travel or work, it’s your perfect urban retreat!
Everything you need to know about Main Shrine Hall
Near the Great Buddha Hall at Daci'en Temple, the Zen Retreat at Daci'en Temple offers a unique cultural stay with Tang Dynasty-inspired architecture and serene garden views. Guests enjoy rooms infused with Buddhist aesthetics, some featuring direct sightlines to the temple's pagoda and bell tower. Just a 3-minute walk from the Great Buddha Hall, it’s perfect for travelers seeking authentic spiritual immersion.
For modern comfort with cultural proximity, Wanda Reign Xi'an (1.5 km away) provides free shuttle service to the temple and blends luxury amenities with local heritage elements, making it ideal for both leisure and cultural exploration.
The easiest way to reach the Great Buddha Hall is via Xi'an Metro Line 4 to Dayanta Station, exiting at C2 and walking just 8 minutes to Daci'en Temple’s entrance. This route avoids city traffic and features clear signage in both Chinese and English.
Alternatively, a taxi ride directly to "Daci'en Temple" or "East of Big Wild Goose Pagoda" takes about 15 minutes from downtown, though peak hours may cause delays. For eco-friendly exploration, shared bicycles are available throughout the Dayanta area, allowing scenic rides along Qujiang Pool Remains Park—perfect for enjoying the blend of ancient architecture and urban greenery. Early morning or late afternoon visits offer quieter experiences and stunning golden-hour lighting on the hall’s roof.
Visitors should not miss the morning chanting ceremony (6:30 AM daily at Daci'en Temple’s Dharma Hall), where guests can join silent meditation and listen to traditional Buddhist chants. Another must-try is the copying sutra workshop, where you write the Heart Sutra in ink using a brush pen—your finished scroll makes a meaningful keepsake.
Don’t skip the blessing lantern ritual, lighting a lamp before the eternal flame at the hall’s front as a symbolic wish offering. During the Buddha’s Birthday Festival (the 8th day of the 4th lunar month), witness the grand Bathing the Buddha Ceremony, where monks pour pure water over a statue of the Buddha while distributing lotus-scented sachets.
For history lovers, participate in the Tang-style Hanfu Garden Tour, wearing period costumes as you stroll through temple corridors—professional photographers capture authentic, historic-style portraits, enhancing your immersive journey into ancient Xi’an.
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