Shanghai Taiqing Palace

Introducing Shanghai Taiqing Palace

Shanghai Taiqing Palace, also known as the Imperial Court Hall, is located diagonally across from the Yuanshen Sports Center in Pudong New Area and is one of the oldest Taoist temples in Shanghai. Legend has it that the Imperial Court Hall was a temporary palace granted by the Tang Dynasty emperor to worship Dongyue Dadi (the deity of Mount Tai). This Taoist temple is incredibly popular, and it's said that wishes and prayers made there are even more effective than those at Longhua Temple and the Jade Buddha Temple.

Shangqing Palace is mainly composed of the gatehouse, Dongyue Hall, Sanqing Hall, Sutra Library (Laojun Hall), Merit Hall and other buildings. Although the Taoist temple is not large and most of the halls and pavilions are modern restorations, the buildings inside the temple are very magnificent.

The Dongyue Hall, a Ming Dynasty building, boasts exquisite carvings. Beneath the eaves stands a plaque inscribed with the words " Qinci Yangdian " (Qinci Yangdian) by renowned calligrapher Aisin - Gioro Yuzhi . The hall's principal deities are Dongyue Emperor, Bixia Yuanjun, and Bingling Gong (Crown Prince of Dongyue). The east and west wings of the hall are two-story, corridor-enclosed buildings. The downstairs front halls are dedicated to the Ten Kings of Hell, while the side rooms are dedicated to the Sixteen Officials.

Climate and best time to travel

On the first and fifteenth day of every lunar month or other Taoist festivals, believers gather at the temple, creating a lively atmosphere. On the 28th day of the third lunar month, the birthday of the Emperor Dongyue, a " Lotus Boat Meeting " is also held .

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended playing time: about 1 hour

Tickets

Incense money 5 yuan

Attraction opening hours

November to April 8:00-16:00, May to October 8:00-16:30

The opening hours are advanced to 6:00 on the first and fifteenth day of each month and Guanyin’s birthday (the 19th day of the second, sixth and ninth lunar months).

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Most Popular FAQs for Shanghai Taiqing Palace

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

Shanghai Taiqing Palace is a historic Taoist temple, founded during the Tang Dynasty (618-907). It was originally constructed to serve as a place for Taoist worship and spiritual practices. The temple is dedicated to Taoist deities and is an important site for the local community. The palace has played a role in preserving Taoist culture and heritage in Shanghai. It is one of the few remaining examples of ancient Taoist architecture in the city, offering a rare glimpse into the city’s spiritual past.

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

Shanghai Taiqing Palace is located in the heart of Shanghai, in the Huangpu District. To get there, take Line 8 of the Shanghai Metro and alight at "Laoximen" station, then it's about a 10-minute walk to the temple. Alternatively, you can take a taxi or use local buses that stop near the temple.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The temple is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are in the early morning or late afternoon, when the temple is quieter and the atmosphere is more peaceful.

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

The entrance fee for Shanghai Taiqing Palace is approximately 20 CNY per person. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance. There are currently no online ticketing options available, so visitors should buy tickets in person.

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

Booking in advance is not necessary for general visits to the temple. However, during peak tourist seasons or for special events, it may be helpful to check the temple’s website for any updates or booking requirements.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

You can fully explore Shanghai Taiqing Palace in about 1-2 hours, depending on your pace and interest in the surrounding gardens and smaller shrines. If you're attending a ceremony or special event, you may want to allow more time.

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

• The main temple hall, which is beautifully decorated with Taoist statues and carvings.
• The temple’s tranquil gardens, which provide a peaceful setting for relaxation.
• The smaller shrines and prayer areas that are scattered around the temple grounds.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some tours may offer English-language services. Audio guides are also available, offering explanations of the temple’s history and Taoist practices in multiple languages, including English.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The main temple hall offers a great view of traditional Taoist architecture, ideal for photography.
• The surrounding garden areas provide peaceful, scenic spots for capturing the tranquil atmosphere of the temple.
• Take photos of the intricate stone carvings and statues that decorate the temple’s gates and walls.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

• Start by exploring the main temple hall, where you can learn about the temple's significance and observe the Taoist deities.
• Walk around the temple’s courtyard and smaller shrines to experience the tranquil atmosphere.
• If available, visit the garden areas to enjoy some time in nature before concluding your visit.

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

Night visits are not typically available. However, the temple does host occasional Taoist ceremonies or special tours, especially during festivals or public holidays. It's best to check with the temple for any special events during your visit.

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

The temple can be somewhat crowded, especially on weekends and public holidays. The least crowded times are early mornings or late afternoons on weekdays, when there are fewer visitors.

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

Basic facilities such as public toilets are available on-site. There are no large restaurants or shops within the temple, but small local shops nearby offer snacks and refreshments. You can also find water stations in the area.

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

The temple is mostly accessible to elderly and children, though some parts of the grounds may have uneven paths or stairs. Disabled visitors may find certain areas challenging due to the temple’s historical structure. It’s advisable to check in advance for specific accessibility details.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash and mobile payments (such as WeChat Pay or Alipay) are widely accepted at Shanghai Taiqing Palace, but it's a good idea to bring cash for small purchases or donations.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• Local Chinese restaurants near the temple offer traditional Shanghai-style dishes and vegetarian options.
• Cafes in the area provide light snacks, tea, and coffee for a quick break after your visit.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available in most local eateries near the temple. Halal food options can be found in certain restaurants, though they may not be abundant in the immediate vicinity of the temple.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Several budget hotels and mid-range accommodations are located near the temple, offering convenient access to the site.
• Luxury hotels are also available within a short distance, providing a more comfortable stay in the city center.

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

• The Yuyuan Garden is a nearby historical site, showcasing traditional Chinese garden design.
• The Bund, with its historic architecture and beautiful views of the Huangpu River, is also within a short distance from the temple.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops near the temple offer a variety of traditional items such as tea, incense, Taoist-themed decorations, and religious trinkets like lucky charms or prayer beads.

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

• Taxis are available near the temple for continuing your trip to other parts of Shanghai.
• The metro system is easily accessible from nearby stations, providing convenient travel options to explore other attractions in the city.