Jing'an Temple: Complete Visitor's Guide

Jing'an Temple, one of China's most prestigious Buddhist temples, stands as a magnificent landmark in the heart of Shanghai's bustling West Nanjing Road. Originally built in 247 AD during the Three Kingdoms period, this ancient temple has witnessed over 1,700 years of history and represents one of Shanghai's most significant cultural heritage sites.

Historical Significance

• Originally named "Hudu Zhongyun Temple"
• Renamed to "Yongtai Chan Temple" during Tang Dynasty
• Finally designated as "Jing'an Temple" in 1008 during Song Dynasty
• Relocated to its current location in 1216
• One of Shanghai's oldest Buddhist temples and a key national Buddhist monastery

Architecture & Features

Main Buildings

• Mahavira Hall
• Hall of Heavenly Kings
• Three Saints Hall
• Bell and Drum Towers
• Buddhist Scripture Library

Notable Treasures

• Paintings by Ba Da Shan Ren
• Wen Zhengming's calligraphy masterpiece "Pipa Xing"
• Pure silver Buddha Rudra statue (15 tons)
• Multiple 3-ton silver Bodhisattva statues
• Traditional architectural elements including unique bracket systems

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

• Daily: 7:30 - 17:00
• Special evening illumination: Fridays and Saturdays after 18:00
• Extended hours during Chinese New Year and major festivals

Admission Fees

• Regular days: ¥50
• Holidays: ¥100
• International visitors: Free admission
• Chinese nationals: ¥50

Temple Etiquette & Guidelines

Incense Offering Protocol

1. Purchase incense from designated areas
2. Light incense with left hand (considered pure in Buddhist culture)
3. Hold incense above head facing the main hall
4. Bow three times with sincere respect
5. Place incense in the burner carefully

Important Rules

• Maintain respectful silence
• Dress modestly (no shorts, sleeveless tops, or revealing clothing)
• Photography restrictions in certain areas
• No touching or climbing on religious artifacts
• Mobile phones on silent mode

Transportation Guide

Metro Access

• Line 2 or Line 7 to Jing'an Temple Station
• Exit 1 recommended for direct temple access

Bus Routes

Major routes include:

• 15, 20, 37, 45, 71, 76
• 93, 94, 113, 138, 506
• 824, 830, 831, 925
• 927, 939

Airport Connection

• Pudong Airport Shuttle Bus Line 2 available
• Stop at City Terminal beside Jing'an Temple

Surrounding Attractions

Dining Highlights

1. Huxi Noodle House (沪西老弄堂面馆)

   • Signature liver and clam noodles
   • Traditional Shanghai-style noodles
   • Authentic local atmosphere

2. Lotus Vegetarian Restaurant (莲香斋)

   • High-end vegetarian buffet
   • Over 100 dishes available
   • Elegant dining environment

Shopping Destinations

1. HKRI Taikoo Hui (静安嘉里中心)

   • International luxury brands
   • Fashion boutiques
   • Regular art exhibitions
   • Seasonal events and markets

2. Plaza 66 (恒隆广场)

   • Premium luxury shopping
   • High-end fashion brands
   • Iconic Shanghai landmark

Relaxation Spots

• Jing'an Park: Perfect for rest and photography
• Shanghai Exhibition Center: Regular cultural events
• Various cafes and tea houses in the vicinity

Photography Spots

Architectural Highlights

1. Ashoka Pillar

   • Best shot from bottom-up angle
   • Capture golden lions at sunset
   • Detail shots of animal carvings

2. Golden Roof

   • Best during morning light
   • Sunset silhouette opportunities
   • Reflection shots from surrounding buildings

Best Photo Locations

• HKRI Taikoo Hui fountain reflection
• Huashan Road pedestrian bridge
• Evening illumination (Fridays and Saturdays)

Location Details

Address: 1686 West Nanjing Road, Jing'an District, Shanghai

Safety Tips

• Keep valuables secure in crowded areas
• Be cautious of unauthorized vendors
• Use official temple shops for religious items
• Choose established restaurants for dining
• Watch for pickpockets during peak hours