Jing'an District

Introducing Jing'an District

Jing'an District belongs to Shanghai and is located in the city center of Shanghai. It is named after the ancient Jing'an Temple in the district.

Climate and best time to travel

Jing'an District has a subtropical monsoon climate with mild weather, abundant rainfall, sufficient sunshine, and distinct four seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Jing'an Temple

It is the only revived Eastern Esoteric Buddhism altar in China, the first national Buddhist organization's headquarters, and a renowned Shingon Buddhist temple in Shanghai. Throughout its long history, Jing'an Temple has preserved a wealth of precious cultural relics and historical legends, the most famous of which are the "Eight Scenic Spots of Jing'an."

Shanghai Natural History Museum

One of my country's most comprehensive natural science museums, the Shanghai Natural History Museum boasts a collection of over 240,000 specimens. It encompasses a diverse range of natural sciences, including paleontology, botany, zoology, anthropology, geology, and astronomy. The museum's exhibits are arranged from the lowest to the highest levels, reflecting the evolution of organisms. Species from every phylum, class, and order of the animal kingdom are represented, along with a variety of ecological landscapes.

Recommended play time: 1-2 days

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Most Popular FAQs for Jing'an District

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

Jing'an District is one of Shanghai's most prominent districts, blending modernity with traditional Chinese culture. It is home to the famous Jing'an Temple, a historical Buddhist site, and is a hub for both business and tourism with its cosmopolitan mix of shopping, dining, and cultural spots.

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

Jing'an District is located in central Shanghai. It is easily accessible via the Jing'an Temple metro station (Line 2 and Line 7). Buses and taxis are also widely available, and it’s walkable from many other central districts.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Most attractions in Jing'an District, like the Jing'an Temple, are open daily from 7 AM to 5 PM. The best times to visit are early morning or late afternoon, especially on weekdays, to avoid crowds.

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

The entrance fee for Jing'an Temple is around 20-30 CNY. Tickets can be purchased on-site, though some attractions around the district may require advance booking, especially for events or exhibitions.

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

Booking in advance is not generally required for most attractions. However, for special events or exhibitions, booking 1-2 days in advance is recommended.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A visit to Jing'an District can take anywhere from half a day to a full day depending on your interest in shopping, dining, and exploring cultural sites.

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

• Jing'an Temple, a beautiful Buddhist temple with a rich history.
• Jing'an Sculpture Park, which features art installations in a tranquil setting.
• Nanjing West Road for shopping and dining.
• Jing'an Kerry Centre for modern retail and entertainment options.

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

Guided tours are available for Jing'an Temple, offered in Mandarin and English. Audio guides are available at some museums or cultural spaces, with services typically in English and Chinese.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The rooftop bars in high-rise hotels such as the JW Marriott offer great views of the city skyline.
• Jing'an Temple's exterior and surrounding gardens provide a serene photography backdrop.
• The green spaces in Jing'an Park, especially in the early morning or during sunset.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

• Start at Jing'an Temple, then explore the surrounding area including the Jing'an Sculpture Park.
• Head to Nanjing West Road for shopping and food.
• Finish your visit at a rooftop bar or restaurant for a great view of the city.

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

Jing'an District is vibrant at night, especially around Nanjing West Road where the lights and shopping malls create a lively atmosphere. Some venues offer light shows or evening cultural performances. Rooftop bars are also popular for night visits.

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

Jing'an District is generally busy, especially around Nanjing West Road and Jing'an Temple. Weekdays, particularly mornings, tend to be less crowded than weekends.

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

Jing'an District offers plenty of facilities, including public toilets, rest areas in parks, a wide selection of food courts, and high-end restaurants. You will also find shops, cafes, and convenience stores throughout the district.

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

Yes, Jing'an District is accessible for elderly and disabled visitors. Most attractions have wheelchair access, and public transportation is also well-equipped for disabled individuals.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Credit cards and mobile payments (such as Alipay and WeChat Pay) are widely accepted throughout Jing'an District, especially in shopping malls and restaurants. Cash is not commonly needed.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• Din Tai Fung for Taiwanese cuisine and dumplings.
• Element Fresh for international food and healthy dining options.
• Shanghai Old Friend for traditional Shanghainese dishes.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Yes, there are vegetarian and vegan-friendly restaurants such as Element Fresh, and halal food can be found at restaurants catering to the local Muslim community.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Jing'an Shangri-La Hotel, a luxury option in the heart of the district.
• The Puli Hotel and Spa, a high-end, contemporary hotel nearby.
• Budget hotels and hostels are also available around Nanjing West Road.

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

• People's Square, a central cultural landmark.
• Yu Garden, a classical Chinese garden.
• The Bund, offering scenic views of Shanghai's historic waterfront.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops are available around Nanjing West Road and in shopping malls. Typical souvenirs include Chinese tea, silk items, art prints, and traditional crafts.

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

• The metro is the fastest and most convenient option. The Jing'an Temple station connects directly to Line 2 and Line 7.
• Taxis are also readily available, as is the use of ride-hailing apps like Didi Chuxing.