Jing'an Temple: A Serene Escape in Shanghai

Name: Jing'an Temple
Address: 1686, Shang Hai Shi, 200040, CN
Rating: 4.4

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Jing'an Temple: A Serene Escape in Shanghai

Overview

Nestled in the heart of Shanghai, the Jing'an Temple is a historical masterpiece that dates back to its origins in 247 AD. Initially located in the Jing'an District, this temple was relocated during the Song Dynasty around 1216 and showcases stunning architecture from the 19th-century Qing Dynasty. Once repurposed as a plastic factory during the Cultural Revolution, it has since been restored and reopened as a place of worship in 1983. The temple is best known for its breathtaking jade Buddha statue, the largest of its kind in China, weighing an impressive 11,000 kg. Visitors can also admire a colossal Ming Dynasty copper bell and explore three main halls: the magnificent Mahavira Hall, housing the jade Buddha; the exhibition hall featuring exquisite paintings and art from renowned artists; and the Guanyin Hall, which presents a stunning 6.2-meter camphor wood statue of the goddess on a lotus base. Additionally, the temple houses ancient stone Buddha sculptures dating back to 420-589 AD, making it a treasure trove of culture and history. A convenient shuttle bus service is available directly from the airport, making your visit to this serene sanctuary effortless.

Reviews

Jia Wei

China

This is a beautiful temple to explore! Entry costs 50 yuan, and you can access tickets through a scan code. Foreigners can use Alipay or WeChat since having a Chinese number is usually required. The temple’s history is fascinating; it was repurposed as a factory during the Cultural Revolution. Thankfully, it was rebuilt in 1983, and a stunning 15-ton silver statue of Buddha now graces the main hall.

Simone Li

China

Jing'an Temple is a serene and historical sanctuary nestled in the bustling Jing'an district of Shanghai. Its beautiful architecture has been meticulously restored following the Cultural Revolution when it served different purposes. Although it can be crowded, it’s definitely a place worth visiting! Remember to use WeChat for ticket purchases, so have someone in your group with a Chinese number handy.

Mei Zhang

China

Jing'an Temple is an exquisite mixture of ancient tradition and modern architecture. The detailed design of the temple stands in striking contrast to the soaring skyscrapers surrounding it. Inside, the peace and tranquility create a wonderful space for contemplation as you explore this significant historical site. A visit here should be on every traveler’s itinerary when in Shanghai.

Anna Wang

China

Jing'an Temple stands as one of Shanghai’s hallmark attractions, representing a unique blend of ancient tradition amidst the city's modernity. This Buddhist temple offers an oasis of calm in a bustling urban environment, drawing both locals and tourists. Its captivating architecture features traditional Chinese elements, and the main hall showcases a significant statue of Sakyamuni Buddha, drawing many to seek reflection. The peaceful atmosphere, enhanced by the gentle sounds of prayer, offers a refreshing escape. It’s a worthwhile visit for those interested in spiritual culture, even though weekend crowds can be a downside.

Tian Chen

China

Navigating from the station is easy: just turn left and you’ll find the temple nearby. The ambiance is filled with devotees, creating a great atmosphere. There's no need to book tickets in advance, and you can easily spend half an hour enjoying the calm and serenity of the place. It's a great stop during your trip.