Jingjue Temple

Introducing Jingjue Temple

Jingjue Temple is the largest mosque in Nanjing, located at 28 Shengzhou Road near Sanshan Street in the south of the city. Originally built during the Ming Dynasty, it now encompasses a main hall, secondary halls, memorial archways, a moon-viewing tower, north and south lecture halls, stele pavilions, and a water chamber, covering 2,000 square meters and occupying 4,000 square meters of land. It is a designated cultural relic protection site in Jiangsu Province. Jumu'ah services typically attract approximately 500 people, while on major festivals, the gathering reaches over 5,000.

Located on Sanshan Street in the south of the city, Nanjing Jingjue Temple was first built in 1388 (the 21st year of the Hongwu reign) and is the oldest mosque in Nanjing. In 1430 (the 5th year of the Xuande reign), Jingjue Temple was destroyed by fire. This happened just before Zheng He's seventh voyage to the West. Emperor Xuanzong of the Ming Dynasty approved Zheng He's request and used state funds to rebuild the temple. It was rebuilt twice during the Qing Dynasty, including a brick memorial archway during the Jiajing reign. Although the brick memorial archway is a contemporary reconstruction, the inscription "敇建" (敇建) remains above it to preserve its original appearance. The extant buildings of Jingjue Temple include a four-story courtyard, a Moon-Viewing Tower, a main hall, a rear hall, an imam's room, and north and south lecture halls. Behind the prayer hall stands a high wall, said to have been built during the Ming Dynasty, making it the tallest wall among Nanjing temples. Today, Jingjue Temple continues to be a place where Muslims practice Islam.

Nanjing's old city was once home to several large Hui communities. The Song Dynasty's "Jinling Yunduqiao Road Chronicle" records: "East of the bridge (Caoqiao) is Dading Lane, and north of that is Libaisi Lane, where the Hui people worship. From Caoqiao to Qijiawan, the Hui people live." This suggests that the Hui had already formed a dense community in Nanjing by at least the Song Dynasty. However, with the relocation of the capital after the establishment of the Ming Dynasty, many Hui people also migrated north.

Climate and best time to travel

Due to the subtropical monsoon climate, few of Jingjue Temple's original buildings remain. Fortunately, they still exist, having survived the erosion of time. Most of the temple's current architecture is a modern reconstruction. While the brick archway is a contemporary reconstruction, the inscription "敇建" (敇建) still stands above it, preserving its original appearance.

All seasons are suitable for travel.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Jingjue Mosque is a mosque with a long history. Its existing buildings include a four-story courtyard, a moon-viewing tower, a main hall, a rear hall, an imam's quarters, and north and south lecture halls. Behind the prayer hall stands a high wall, said to have been built during the Ming Dynasty. Today, Jingjue Mosque continues to be a place where Muslims practice Islam.

It is recommended to visit for about 2 hours.

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

8:00-17:00

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Most Popular FAQs for Jingjue Temple

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Jingjue Temple dates back to the Tang Dynasty and is one of the most important Buddhist temples in Nanjing. It holds deep historical and spiritual significance as a center of Buddhist practice and education in the region.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Jingjue Temple is located in the Xuanwu District of Nanjing. It can be reached by metro (Line 1, Xuanwumen Station), taxi, or walking from nearby attractions in Nanjing. It's a short distance from Nanjing's city center.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The temple is open daily from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds, especially during weekends or Chinese holidays.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The entrance fee to Jingjue Temple is around ¥20-30. Tickets can be purchased onsite at the temple's ticket counter.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

It is not necessary to book tickets in advance. You can purchase them upon arrival at the temple.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

You can explore the temple in about 1 to 2 hours, depending on how much time you spend in the gardens and meditation areas.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

Don’t miss the main hall where Buddhist relics are displayed, the peaceful garden, and the ancient pagoda within the temple grounds. The quiet corners for meditation are also notable.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in Chinese, and some tours may offer English-speaking guides on request. Audio guides may also be available, but it’s recommended to inquire on-site.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots include the main hall, the ancient pagoda, and the temple gardens. Sunset or early morning light can provide stunning photos of the surroundings.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start your visit with the main hall to appreciate the historical artifacts, then take a walk through the tranquil gardens. Conclude your visit by climbing the pagoda for a panoramic view of the area.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits or light shows are not typically available at Jingjue Temple. The temple mainly focuses on daytime spiritual practices.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The temple can be crowded on weekends and holidays. The least crowded times to visit are early mornings on weekdays.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Basic facilities include public toilets and rest areas. There is a small shop selling Buddhist items and souvenirs. Food is not readily available within the temple, so it’s best to eat before or after your visit.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The temple grounds are mostly accessible for elderly and disabled visitors, though there are some stairs and uneven paths that may be challenging for those with mobility issues.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash, mobile payments (Alipay, WeChat Pay), and cards are accepted for tickets and purchases at the temple shop.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are no restaurants within the temple, but several local Chinese restaurants and cafes are located nearby in the Xuanwu District.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian food is widely available at nearby restaurants. Halal options may be more limited, but Nanjing city center offers a few choices.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Several hotels are located near the temple, including mid-range and budget options. The Nanjing Xuanwu Hotel and hotels near Xuanwumen metro station are convenient for visitors.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Nearby attractions include the Nanjing Yangtze River Bridge, Xuanwu Lake, and the Nanjing City Wall. All can be easily combined for a day trip.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

The temple shop offers Buddhist-related souvenirs such as prayer beads, incense, and small statues of Buddha. You can also find postcards and temple-themed trinkets.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

After visiting, you can take a taxi, bus, or metro to other Nanjing attractions or transportation hubs. Nanjing Railway Station and Nanjing South Station are easily accessible by public transport.