Longhua Temple

Introducing Longhua Temple

Longhua Temple, located in Longhua Street in the southern suburbs of Shanghai, is the oldest and largest ancient temple in Shanghai, with a history of more than 1,700 years. The name of the temple comes from the story in Buddhist scriptures about Maitreya Bodhisattva becoming a Buddha under the Longhua tree.

Most of the halls in the current Longhua Temple were built during the Tongzhi and Guangxu periods of the Qing Dynasty, and have maintained the format of the seven-hall system of the Song Dynasty, namely the Maitreya Hall, the Heavenly King Hall, the Main Hall, the Three Saints Hall, the Abbot's Room and the Sutra Library.

Longhua Temple rings its bells to welcome the New Year, and many residents want to be the first to ring the bell and burn the first incense sticks, praying for a peaceful year. The annual Longhua Temple Fair is a bustling event, featuring dragon and lion dances, demonstrations of traditional Shanghai street crafts, and local delicacies.

Climate and best time to travel

There are Longhua Temple Fair activities in March and April . There is an old saying in Shanghai, " On the third day of the third lunar month, go to Longhua and see the peach blossoms . " Legend has it that the third day of the third lunar month is the day when Maitreya incarnates as Budai Monk. To commemorate him, when the peach blossoms bloom in spring, Longhua Temple holds a memorial ceremony. The incense is very strong, attracting many people and small vendors, which has formed the current temple fair.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended play time: 1-2 hours

Tickets

10 yuan/person, free during the incense season

Attraction opening hours

9:00-16:30

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Most Popular FAQs for Longhua Temple

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

Longhua Temple is one of the oldest and most significant Buddhist temples in Shanghai, dating back to the Three Kingdoms period (around 247 AD). It has been a cultural and religious center for over 1,700 years and is particularly famous for its large collection of ancient Buddhist relics and the Longhua Pagoda.

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

Longhua Temple is located in the southwest part of Shanghai, in the Xuhui District. You can reach the temple by taking Metro Line 11 to the "Longhua" station, then walking to the temple. Buses and taxis are also convenient options for getting there.

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 in the morning to experience the temple's peaceful atmosphere and avoid the crowds. Weekdays are usually quieter than weekends.

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

The entrance fee is approximately 10-15 RMB. Tickets can be purchased at the temple entrance. There may be discounts available for seniors and students. Online ticketing may also be available during busy seasons or special events.

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

Generally, you do not need to book tickets in advance unless you're visiting during peak tourist seasons, such as Chinese New Year or major Buddhist festivals. It's advisable to check online for any special events that might require early booking.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A visit to Longhua Temple typically takes about 1 to 1.5 hours, including time spent exploring the main halls, the pagoda, and the peaceful gardens. If you're attending a special ceremony or event, it might take longer.

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

Must-see highlights include the main hall with its Buddha statues, the Longhua Pagoda which offers panoramic views of the area, and the surrounding tranquil gardens. The temple’s incense burners and various prayer halls are also worth visiting.

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

Guided tours are available in Chinese, and English-speaking guides may be arranged by special request. Audio guides are available in Mandarin, and English-speaking visitors can use mobile apps or local guide services for English-language explanations.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The Longhua Pagoda offers the best views for photography. Capture the temple from various angles within the courtyard, especially with the pagoda in the background. The surrounding gardens and serene ponds also provide excellent photo opportunities.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by entering the temple’s main gate and explore the central hall. Move on to the surrounding prayer halls and then climb the Longhua Pagoda for stunning views. Finally, take a stroll through the gardens and tranquil courtyards before exiting.

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

Currently, Longhua Temple does not offer night visits or light shows. However, during Buddhist festivals, the temple may have special nighttime ceremonies or events. It's best to check the schedule for any such offerings.

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

The temple can get crowded on weekends and during public holidays. To avoid crowds, visit early on weekdays, particularly in the morning.

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

The temple has clean toilets and some rest areas where visitors can relax. There is a small gift shop near the entrance, but no large food courts inside the temple. Vendors outside the temple sell local snacks and drinks.

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

The temple is generally accessible for elderly, children, and disabled visitors. There are paths for easy access, but the Longhua Pagoda may be difficult for those with mobility issues due to its stairs. It's advisable to plan accordingly if you have specific accessibility needs.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cards and mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely accepted. It's still a good idea to carry some cash, especially if you plan to buy items from local vendors around the temple.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

While there are no large restaurants inside the temple, there are several local eateries around the Longhua area offering Chinese and vegetarian dishes. Some popular spots include local noodle shops and tea houses.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Yes, many of the nearby restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan options, especially considering the temple's Buddhist culture. Halal food options are also available in certain restaurants in the area.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Nearby hotels include the Longhua Hotel and Jinjiang Inn, both offering convenient access to the temple. There are also several budget options in the surrounding Xuhui District.

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

Nearby attractions include the Shanghai Botanical Garden and the Shanghai Grand Prix Circuit. You can also visit the Xujiahui shopping district, which is not far from Longhua Temple.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

The temple has a small souvenir shop where you can buy Buddhist-themed gifts, incense, prayer beads, and small statues. Local markets nearby also sell traditional Chinese handicrafts and souvenirs.

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

After visiting Longhua Temple, you can easily continue your journey by taking a taxi or using Metro Line 11. The Xujiahui shopping area and other attractions are just a short ride away.