Timeline
05:52
Take the Huan Shan Tour Bus No. 1 from Big Wild Goose Pagoda North Square. The bus departs between 08:00 and 11:00, so if you are aiming for a January sunrise at 07:52, you must leave Xi'an before the bus service starts. Check the route for alternative early morning transport if your sunrise is before 08:00. The two-hour journey will get you to Louguantai just in time to find a quiet spot.
07:52
Stand inside the Louguantai complex as the sun rises. The temple complex offers the primary vantage point for the morning light. The drivers offering rides to the main temple at the back may be active, but walking allows you to control your position for the best view of the sunrise.
08:37
Walk through the temple grounds while the morning light settles. The complex is large enough to explore at a leisurely pace without rushing back to the bus.
09:22
Head back to the bus stand across the street where you alighted. The return bus runs at approximately 13:00, 14:00, 15:00, and 17:00. If your sunrise is in the morning, you will likely need to wait for the next available bus or check the route for a later departure time that suits your schedule.
Local tip
The bus boarding place is not exactly on the Big Wild Goose Pagoda North Square stop but a few meters before. Be ready to board quickly as the window is 08:00-11:00.
Check before you go
- The Huan Shan Tour Bus No. 1 only runs from 08:00 to 11:00. If your sunrise is before 08:00 (common in summer), you cannot take this bus to arrive in time. You must check the route for alternative early morning transport from Xi'an to Louguantai.
- The return bus from Louguantai to Xi'an departs at 13:00, 14:00, 15:00, and 17:00. Plan your return journey around these fixed times.
- Louguantai entrance fee is ¥30-45 depending on the season.
Built from places in the Wikivoyage guide to Xi'an (CC BY-SA 4.0), with open map data from OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).