Jing'an Temple

this was a truly stunning temple, both by size and beauty. this huge temple is unique as it sits in the middle of one of shanghai’s central business districts, jing’an. the architecture is beautiful throughout the temple and will leave you awestruck. the statues are also beautifully crafted. highly recommend

Jing'an Temple is one of the most famous temples in Shanghai, which is located right in the city centre. Originally built in 247 CE, it has been moved and rebuilt multiple times. It's stunning traditional architecture is surrounded by skyscrapers if Shanghai. The prominent features of the temple are ornate halls, a large jade Buddha statue, and a bronze bell from the Ming Dynasty. Also the features a beautiful golden pagoda with intricate designs. A truly magnificent structure, should not be missed.

A beautiful and vibrant temple that provides a wonderful cultural counterpoint to the ultra-modern Jing'an district. The 50 RMB entry fee for foreigners is very reasonable (and you can pay via WeChat/Alipay). A great tip: head to the buildings at the back and the stairs for lower crowds and much better photo opportunities than the main courtyard. A must-do when in the area. Really recommended to visit!

Jing'an Temple, meaning "Temple of Peace and Tranquility," is a historic Tangmi Buddhist temple located on West Nanjing Road in the bustling Jing'an district of Shanghai, China. Originally founded in 247 AD, it was relocated to its current site in 1216. Today, it is known for its intricate architecture and large, opulent halls, standing in striking contrast to the modern skyscrapers that surround it. Address: 1686 Nanjing West Road, Jing'an District, Shanghai. Operating hours: 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily. Entrance fee: The cost is 50 yuan for general admission. The temple is situated directly above the Jing'an Temple Station, a major hub for the Shanghai Metro's Line 2, Line 7, and Line 14.

It's truly a spectacular piece of architecture—the sheer scale of the gold roof against the blue sky is breathtaking and incredibly photogenic. What amazed me was the sense of contrast. You step off the incredibly busy Nanjing West Road, and suddenly, you're in this pocket of peace and quiet. The incense, the chanting, and the stunning halls create a wonderfully calm and spiritual atmosphere right in the middle of a major CBD. It's a gorgeous escape. It’s easy to get to, being near the Metro station and you are hosted by the friendly volunteers. You need a ticket to get into the temple. Highly recommend this for anyone visiting the city—it’s an unforgettable cultural experience!

From its humble beginnings in 247 AD — when it was first built under the name “Hudu Chongyuan Temple” — Jing’an Temple embodies centuries of history and resilience. Over the centuries, it was moved to its current location on West Nanjing Road around 1216 AD, during the Song Dynasty. The temple survived multiple cycles of destruction and rebuilding: by the late 19th century its traditional halls were reconstructed, only to be razed during the turmoil of the mid-20th century; after a fire in 1972 and decades of neglect (it was once turned into a plastic factory), the site was eventually restored. What stands today — reopened in the 1980s — is a blend of reverence for its past, and a present-day sanctuary amidst Shanghai’s relentless urban expansion.  Visiting Jing’an Temple feels like stepping into a living tapestry of faith, art, and history. Inside the complex you’ll find grand traditional halls — including the Mahavira Hall and the Hall of Heavenly Kings — and the temple houses one of the largest statues of Buddha carved from pure jade in Mainland China, as well as a massive Ming-era bronze bell among its treasures. Despite being located in the heart of Shanghai’s busiest district — surrounded by skyscrapers, malls, and bustling streets — the temple grounds offer a surprising sense of tranquility. Light incense, wander through the serene courtyards and traditional pavilions, and you’ll get a sense of timeless spirituality anchored in deep history — all while the modern city pulses just outside the walls.

Jing'an Temple has a quiet, spiritual and ancient look in the central of Shanghai, the architecture brings me a slow down in the middle of the bustling city. The temple consists of 3 towers with attractive golden roof tiles, very clean and well maintained facility. Many majestic Buddha statues with meticulous and sophisticated sculptures. In the middle of the temple yard, there is a tall tower where you can make wishes and throw coins into (to make the wish come true). Entrance fee: 50 yuan/person.

Jing'an Temple is an amazing and vibrant temple right in the heart of Shanghai's modern business district. It's a striking contrast of ancient gold architecture against a backdrop of skyscrapers, making for some truly awesome photos. While it's a bustling and active temple, which is cool to see, the crowds can sometimes detract from the peaceful, spiritual vibe. Still, it's a fantastic historical spot to visit, and definitely a unique Shanghai experience.