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City God Temple

City God Temple overview

Historical Origins

The City God Temple of Shanghai stands as a historic landmark along the Huangpu River, with a history dating back to the Tang Dynasty. Originally established in the Huating County area, it began as a small temple dedicated to the local City God.

In 1292, when Shanghai County was officially established, residents initially worshipped at the Danjing Temple in the suburbs. During the Yongle period of the Ming Dynasty (1403-1424), as Shanghai's population grew, the local magistrate Zhang Shouyue converted the Jinshan Shrine into the Shanghai City God Temple, dedicating it to Qin Yubo, who became Shanghai's City God.

City God Temple illuminated architecture

The temple features a unique "one temple, three City Gods" arrangement, honoring three historical figures:

  • General Huo Guang from the Western Han Dynasty
  • Qin Yubo, a respected scholar from the late Yuan and early Ming periods
  • Chen Huacheng, a national hero from the late Qing Dynasty

During the Qianlong period of the Qing Dynasty, Yuyuan Garden was designated as the temple's western garden. The area flourished as a commercial center, attracting merchants from all around. Despite suffering fire damage during the Republican era, the temple was rebuilt in 1926 and continues to stand as a prominent landmark.

Architectural Features

City God Temple panoramic view

The City God Temple exemplifies traditional Chinese architecture with its north-south orientation and symmetrical layout. The main features include:

The Main Gate:

  • Features impressive flying eaves and bracket sets
  • Displays the temple's name in bold calligraphy
  • Second gate includes an abacus with the inscription "Man has a thousand calculations, but heaven has only one"

The Opera Stage:

  • Distinctive architectural style with layered eaves
  • Four stone pillars decorated with dragon and phoenix patterns
  • Bears the inscription "One Song of Peace" above the stage

The Main Hall:

  • Built in the Southern Chinese architectural style
  • Single-eave gabled roof with gentle slopes
  • Features black-based golden characters on the plaque
  • Houses the City God statue with attendant figures

Additional Structures:

  • East and West corridors connecting various halls
  • Decorated walls featuring murals of mythology and historical stories
  • Specialized halls including:
    • Yuan Chen Hall (元辰殿) for the God of Time
    • Parents Hall (父母殿) for ancestral worship
    • Fortune God Hall (财神殿)
    • Compassion Hall (慈航殿)

Traditional Beliefs and Customs

The City God Temple remains an important center for traditional beliefs in Shanghai. The three enshrined City Gods represent different aspects of protection and blessing:

  1. General Huo Guang: Protects against natural disasters
  2. Qin Yubo: Represents justice and local governance
  3. Chen Huacheng: Symbolizes patriotism and sacrifice

The temple hosts three major annual processions:

  • Qingming Festival
  • Ghost Festival (seventh lunar month)
  • First day of the tenth lunar month

During these processions, the City God's statue is carried through the streets in an elaborate ceremony, accompanied by traditional performers and worshippers.

Culinary Delights

The temple area is famous for its traditional Shanghai snacks and dishes:

  1. Xiaolongbao (小笼包) from Nanxiang:
  • Over 100 years of history
  • Features thin skin with at least 14 pleats
  • Filled with meat and soup
  1. Wine-Soaked Rice Balls (酒酿圆子):
  • Originated in the early 20th century
  • Made with glutinous rice and sweet rice wine
  • Served with osmanthus syrup
  1. Pan-Fried Buns (生煎包):
  • Crispy bottom, juicy filling
  • Available at various famous shops including Wang Jiasha (王家沙)
  1. Other Notable Dishes:
  • Eight Treasures Rice (八宝饭)
  • Crab Shell Pastry (蟹壳黄)
  • Chicken Blood Soup (鸡鸭血汤)
  • Sweet Bean Soup (桂花赤豆糖粥)

Visitor Information

Location and Access:

  • Metro: Line 10, Yuyuan Garden Station, Exit 1
  • Bus Routes: 932, 11, 64, 801, 920, 930

Opening Hours:

  • Temple grounds: Open daily
  • Main halls: 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM

Admission:

  • 10 RMB for incense fee
  • Free entry for military personnel, disabled visitors, and martyrs' families

Recommended Route:

  1. Start at the Main Hall for worship
  2. Explore Yuyuan Garden
  3. Cross the Nine-Turn Bridge
  4. Visit the food street
  5. Browse the Yuyuan Shopping Area

Nearby Attractions:

  • Shanghai Old Street
  • The Great World Building (大境阁)
  • Traditional craft shops and tea houses