Jing'an Temple

Shanghai, China

Like an oasis in a desert, the Jing’an (meaning ‘Peace and Tranquility’) Temple is a quite sanctuary in the midst of buzzing Shanghai. Almost 8 centuries old, the temple was originally built during the Song Dynasty, before it burnt down in 1972 during the cultural revolution and was resurrected in 1984. With further restoration work, in 1990 the temple was open to all in its current splendor. It is renowned as one of the most important temples in Shanghai.

With easy access from its name-sake metro station at West Nanjing road, visitors can gain entrance for RMB50. However, during the first 15 days of the first lunar month, the entry ticket costs RMB100. And for the 1st and 15th day of the 11 other lunar months, admission is free. The timings are from 07:30 to 17:00, though by coming early guests can see the monks at worship. Visitors can also get a little stack of incense sticks for RMB5 to light for prayers. Once a year for 3 days, in memory of the first festival of the Buddha’s birthday celebrated by a Qing emperor, a Temple Fair is held in which the main market is for handicrafts, novelty items and local agricultural produce.

There are three main structures with many other halls within, each with their own significance. The main imposing buildings are known as the Hall of Virtuous Works, the Hall of Three Saints and the Hall of Heavenly Kings. All structures have golden tiled, slanting roof which provides a delightful contrast with the dull concrete of the modern high-rise buildings of the business district.

Upon entering the temple, tourists come upon a tall shrine in the courtyard, perched on three elaborate legs, where they light incense sticks and say prayers. People (specially kids!) also throw in coins for luck.
Of particular interest is the enormous silver Sakyamuni statue in the Mahavira Hall, which is about 15 tons heavy. Within the Guanyin Hall, there rests a statue of Guanyin, the Buddhist Goddess of Mercy made out of a thousand-year-old Camphor tree and weighing 5 tons. And across from this is the Jade Buddha Hall which is home to one of the largest sitting jade Buddha statues in the country. With a height of 12 feet and weighing a staggering 11,000 kgs, the tranquil expression does wonders to offset the otherwise intimidating statue. Other things that prove awe-inspiring to take in are the various artworks by master artists of their time and their depth of detail; a copper bell, known as Hongwu, which dates from the Ming Dynasty. And various statues in the elaborate halls and corridors of the premises dating back to different dynasties.

Once a person has had their fill of the temple, there are shops inside the courtyard that sell things from mooncakes to tea sets which are often attractive to tourists. And within the vicinity there is a pure vegetarian restaurant with quality food and service that really seals the deal on an authentic Buddhist experience.

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