Jing’an Temple is one of Shanghai’s most famous places of worship. It lives up to its name, which translates as “Temple of Peace and Tranquillity”, providing a space for calm reflection away from the frenetic pace of modern city life. Although the current building has undergone recent reconstruction, there are still many significant historic artefacts to be discovered within.
The temple’s origins can be traced back to the 3rd century AD, during China’s Three Empires Period, where it stood on the banks of the Wusong River. However, it was relocated to its current position one thousand years later in the Song Dynasty era. Disaster struck in 1972 when the temple was destroyed by a fire. Following extensive rebuilding to return it to its original glory, it reopened in 1990.
There are three main halls that make up this temple: the Hall of Heavenly Kings, the Three Sage Hall and the Mahavira Hall. In this last hall, you’ll find a famous jade statue of a seated Buddha, the largest of its kind in existence. It measures almost 4 metres high and weighs over 8.9 tonnes.
Head to the Exhibition Hall of Buddhist Relics to view exquisite paintings and calligraphy by the Eight Eccentric Painters of Yangzhou. Their work is famous for breaking away from established techniques and favouring highly expressive free-flowing sketches.
Other highlights not to be missed include the large Hongwu copper bell, cast during the Ming Dynasty, as well as the collection of ancient stone Buddha figures from the fifth and sixth centuries.
This temple is still an active place of worship, and visitors are welcome to participate. If you are visiting in early May, don’t miss the annual Temple Fair, celebrating Buddha’s birthday. This three-day event sees crowds flock to the temple to sell traditionally crafted items and local produce.
Jing’an Temple is open every day, and a small visitor admission fee is payable. It is located on West Nanjing Road. The closest metro station is Jing’an Temple, and many bus lines also stop here.
