Timeline
07:19
Arrive at Xingjiao Temple and find a quiet spot near the five-storied Buddhist relic pagoda. The temple opens at 09:00, but you can view the exterior grounds and the pagoda silhouette against the darkening sky before then. Use this time to settle in and wait for the sun to crest the horizon.
07:49
Watch the sunrise. On 15 January the sun rises at 07:49 local time, casting a soft glow on the historic structure as the sky brightens toward the WSW.
08:04
Enjoy the golden light. The sun is fully up and the lighting is ideal for photography around 17:19, but the early morning atmosphere remains peaceful. Take your time exploring the grounds of this Tang dynasty temple.
08:34
Head to the temple entrance area. Since the temple opens at 09:00, you can now fully enter the site if you wish, or simply relax outside as the morning bustle begins.
Local tip
The temple gates open at 09:00. If you arrive before then, you can still view the exterior and the pagoda from the perimeter. Bring a warm layer as January mornings in Xi'an are cold.
Check before you go
- Xingjiao Temple opening hours are 09:00-16:00.
Built from places in the Wikivoyage guide to Xi'an (CC BY-SA 4.0), with open map data from OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).