Jing'an Temple — Attraction in Shanghai

Jing'an Temple is one of the most famous temples in Shanghai. In 1983, it was put on the list of key national protection. The temple has a history of more than 780 years. First built in the Three Kingdoms Period (220-280), it was named Hudu Chongyuan Temple. In the Southern Song Dynasty (1127-1279), it was moved to the present location from the bank of Wusong River and became a busy and crowded place until 1908; the first tramcar was built as Jing'an Temple for its starting station. Later, a famous calligrapher renamed it as Jing'an Temple in 1945 and is still named as such today. Unfortunately, the temple was burnt down to ruins in 1972. However, the reconstruction began after 1984, so the Hall of Heavenly Kings and the Three-Sage Hall were repaired in succession. In 1990, the whole temple was finally opened to the public. There were eight scenes in the former Jing'an Temple that previously enjoyed great popularity. Most of them are extinct but the Estavel (Yong Quan) which was in front of the temple was excavated in May 5th, 2009. The spring water gushed out day and night, so people called it 'boil well'. It was regarded as the 'Sixth Spring under Heaven'. After reconstruction, the spring was relocated at the crossing of Huashan Road and West Nanjing Road, and regained its former charm. There are three main halls here: The Mahavira Hall, the Hall of Heavenly Kings and the ThreeSage Hall. In Mahavira Hall, the biggest pure jade portrait of Sakyamuni in Mainland China is placed. The jade Buddha has a height of 3.78 meters (about 12 feet), a weight of 2.6 meters (about 9 feet) and a weight of 11,000 kilograms. It was so big that the wall was torn down when it was moved into the hall. With a kind and tranquil facial expression, the Buddha radiates venerability and auspiciousness.

Jing'an Temple is a good place to escape the hustle and bustle of crowds in downtown Shanghai. In the meantime, you can enjoy the marvellous painting and calligraphy by Yangzhou's Eight Eccentric Painters in the Exhibition Hall of Buddhist Relics. An important display of this temple is the bronze bell which was made in the Ming Dynasy (1368-1644).

Temple Fair is held here once a year. In the eighth year during the reign of Emperor Guangxu, Qing Dynasty, the first Festival of Buddha's Birthday was held on 8th day of Lunar April, villagers all came here to sell handcrafted goods, agricultural and sideline speciality products. The Temple Fair lasts three days and many people from near and far came to worship during the fair. Gradually, business in this district became prosperous. From then on, Temple Fair became a tradition, held annually...

Jing'an Temple is one of Shanghai's most iconic attractions, seamlessly blending ancient tradition with the modern hustle of the city. Situated in the Jing'an District, this Buddhist temple is a serene oasis amidst skyscrapers and urban noise, making it a remarkable place to visit for both tourists and locals alike. The temple’s history dates back to the 3rd century, although the current structure was rebuilt in the 20th century after being destroyed during various upheavals. The architecture is stunning, showcasing traditional Chinese design, with intricate roofs, beautiful wooden carvings, and vibrant colors. The main hall houses an impressive statue of Sakyamuni Buddha, which, along with other deities, attracts visitors seeking spiritual solace or curiosity about Buddhism. One of the highlights of Jing'an Temple is the tranquil atmosphere it offers. Despite being located in a busy area, the moment you step inside, you're enveloped in a sense of peace. The gentle sound of prayer bells, the soft scent of incense, and the sight of worshippers making offerings create a reflective environment that is refreshing, especially after exploring the bustling city. Additionally, the temple often hosts various Buddhist ceremonies and festivals, allowing for a deeper insight into local culture and religiosity. One potential downside is that it can get busy, particularly on weekends or during religious events. Overall, Jing'an Temple is a must-visit when in Shanghai. It offers not only a glimpse into the city's rich spiritual heritage but also a chance to experience a peaceful retreat amidst the vibrant urban life. Whether you're interested in history, culture, or simply seeking a quiet space to reflect, Jing'an Temple is an enriching destination that should...

Jing'an Temple holds a special place in my heart every time I visit Shanghai. Despite the bustling atmosphere filled with devoted worshipers, the temple exudes a remarkable sense of reverence and spirituality. The vibrant energy surrounding the temple reflects the unwavering faith and belief in the power of prayers answered here.

Jing'an Temple stands as a significant cultural and spiritual landmark, seamlessly blending tradition and contemporary life in Shanghai. The fusion of ancient architecture with the vibrant pulse of the city captures the essence of both the past and present. While the commercial aspects and the presence of vendors selling souvenirs were noticeable, they did not diminish the overall beauty and significance of Jing'an Temple. It merely served as a reminder of the temple's cultural and historical value.

For those seeking a spiritual sanctuary amidst the liveliness of a vibrant neighborhood, Jing'an Temple is an absolute gem. Its rich Buddhist heritage offers a profound connection to Eastern spirituality. Visiting this temple provides a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in a space where tradition and belief harmoniously coexist with the pulse of...