Golden Buddha Kingdom's Magic City Time

A millennium-old ancient temple in the bustling city, experience the perfect blend of golden splendor and modern Magic City. Jing'an Temple, one of Shanghai's four great ancient temples, is located on the busiest Nanjing West Road. It is a peaceful sanctuary in the noisy metropolis, known for its magnificent golden halls and profound historical heritage, making it a must-visit landmark for tourists in Shanghai. This guide will take you through a comprehensive tour of this Buddhist holy site at the heart of the "Magic City."

💥 Reasons to Visit

A Buddhist sanctuary in the city center: In the bustling prime area of Shanghai, Jing'an Temple offers a unique sense of tranquility and solemnity, providing a wonderful experience of "transcending the world while being in it."

Rare golden-roofed architecture: Built in the Song Dynasty architectural style, the main halls are topped with copper tiles that shine brilliantly from afar. Against the backdrop of modern skyscrapers, the visual effect is stunning.

A dialogue between history and modernity: Jing'an Temple has a long history, said to have been founded during the Three Kingdoms period. After many changes, the current buildings are exquisite modern reconstructions, perfectly embodying the charm of Shanghai’s blend of old and new.

🔥 Highlights

Shanmen Gate and Heavenly Kings Hall: Upon entering, you are greeted by the majestic Heavenly Kings Hall, housing statues of Maitreya Bodhisattva, Skanda Bodhisattva, and the Four Heavenly Kings, all exquisitely crafted and imposing.

Main Hall — Mahavira Hall: The temple’s core building, enshrining one of China’s largest jade Buddha statues — the seated Shakyamuni Buddha. The hall is richly decorated and bustling with incense, serving as the main place for devotees to pray.

Jing'an Eight Scenes and Brahma Sound Cave: Don’t miss the “Jing'an Eight Scenes” reliefs inside the temple, which tell the temple’s historical legends. The Brahma Sound Cave on the basement level features a large jade Guanyin statue in a serene atmosphere.

Top-tier Buddhist temple status: Jing'an Temple is one of the nationally key Buddhist temples in Han Chinese areas, with architectural standards and Buddha statues reflecting high artistic Buddhist value.

🌈 Practical Information

Ticket Prices:

Peak Season (January-April, October-December): 50 RMB/person

Off-Season (May-September): 30 RMB/person

Opening Hours:

Weekdays: 7:30 AM - 5:00 PM

1st and 15th of lunar month & Buddha’s Birthday: 5:00 AM - 5:00 PM

(Suggested visit duration: 1-2 hours)

Best Time to Visit:

Early morning or evening, when sunlight shines spectacularly on the golden roofs.

On the 1st and 15th of the lunar month, you can experience a stronger religious atmosphere, though there may be more visitors.

🚗 Transportation Guide:

Metro: The most convenient way. Take Metro Line 2, 7, or 14 and get off at Jing'an Temple Station; the temple is right outside the exit.

Bus: Multiple bus lines (such as 20, 37, 57, etc.) stop at Jing'an Temple Station.

🍽 Dining Recommendations:

There is a vegetarian restaurant inside the temple where you can enjoy authentic vegetarian food.

Outside the temple is the bustling Nanjing West Road and Yuyuan Road, offering a variety of dining options from international cuisine to traditional Shanghai dishes.