Location & How to Get There
Kaiyuan Square sits at the heart of the Tang Paradise Night Market (Grand Tang All Day Mall) in Xi’an, specifically at No. 46, Ci’en Road, Yanta District. It’s nestled south of the famous Giant Wild Goose Pagoda and aligns perfectly with other landmarks like Xuanzang Square and the Tang Dynasty Figure Sculpture Gallery. To reach Kaiyuan Square, take the metro Line 3 or 4 to “Giant Wild Goose Pagoda” station. From there, it’s a 10-minute walk north along Yanta South Road. Buses 22, 24, or 307 also drop you near the pagoda. If you’re coming by taxi, just ask for “Kaiyuan Square inside Tang Paradise”—local drivers know it well!
Natural Scenery: Lights, Water, and Greenery
At night, Kaiyuan Square transforms into a dazzling spectacle. Bright lanterns, glowing archways, and colorful LED strips line the walkways, reflecting off a central fountain that dances with music. Even during daylight, the square feels alive: shaded by trees and framed by traditional-style buildings, it’s a calm spot to pause. The nearby Qujiang River adds a touch of nature, with bridges lit in warm tones after sunset. For the best views, stand near the central sculpture of Emperor Xuanzong (who named the “Kaiyuan” era) and watch the light shift across the pagoda in the distance.
Cultural Highlights: History and Art
Kaiyuan Square isn’t just pretty—it’s packed with stories. The name “Kaiyuan” comes from Emperor Xuanzong’s reign (713–741), known as the “Kaiyuan Era,” a time when Tang China was wealthy and culturally thriving. At the square, you’ll spot statues of poets, scholars, and dancers dressed in Tang dynasty outfits, bringing history to life. Don’t miss the Curve Jiang Calligraphy and Painting Art Museum right next to the square—it holds exhibitions of ancient scrolls and hosts live calligraphy demos. For a deeper dive, the nearby Tang Dynasty Figure Sculpture Gallery showcases larger-than-life statues of emperors, soldiers, and folk characters.
Practical Tips: Food, Rest, and More
After exploring, grab a snack! Kaiyuan Square is surrounded by vendors selling biangbiang noodles, shaky jelly desserts, and grilled meats. For something fancier, head to the nearby Wangjue Street for sit-down restaurants. Clean restrooms and benches are scattered around the square, so you can relax anytime. If you visit on weekends, check the schedule for free performances: dancers in Tang costumes often perform near the central stage, and street artists mingle with crowds.
Why Visit Kaiyuan Square?
Walking through Kaiyuan Square feels like stepping back to the Tang Dynasty. The mix of lights, history, and modern art makes it a must-see in Xi’an. Whether you’re here for photos, people-watching, or a quiet moment by the pagoda, this spot captures the spirit of ancient China—and it’s all within a stone’s throw of Xi’an’s top attractions. Come at dusk to see the square transition from day to night; it’s pure magic!
