Jing'an Temple: A Thousand-Year Journey of Guardianship from the Ancient Chiwu Temple to an Urban Zen Forest

The Origin of Ancient Temples – The Misty Rain of Jiangnan at “Hudu Chongyuan Temple”
The name "Jing'an" did not originate here. The temple was originally located on the north bank of the Wusong River (now the Suzhou Creek) and was named "Hudu Chongyuan Temple." Built in the tenth year of the Chiwu era of the Eastern Wu Kingdom during the Three Kingdoms period, it is one of the earliest Buddhist temples in the Jiangnan region. Legend has it that its founder was the eminent monk Kang Senghui, who propagated Buddhism along the river and built the temple on its banks, thus beginning the area's thousand-year-old Buddhist history. During the Tang Dynasty, it was briefly renamed "Yongtai Chan Temple." Its location was precisely at the ancient Shanghai port of "Hudu," witnessing Shanghai's early history of transforming from a fishing village into a port city.

The Road to Rebirth—From Relocation by the Riverbank to the Reappearance of the Golden Temple
The modern story of Jing'an Temple is an epic tale of profound urban transformation and cultural preservation:
- Riverside (1216 years ago): The temple is located on the banks of the Wusong River and is a popular Buddhist center with flourishing incense offerings. It is a vital transportation hub for both water and land routes.
- Relocation and Foundation Establishment (9th year of Jiading reign of the Southern Song Dynasty, 1216): Due to erosion by the river, the foundation of the temple collapsed, and the temple was in grave danger. The monks moved the temple to the banks of Feijingbang, which is the present site of Jing'an Temple. Based on the Buddhist concept of "tranquility and peace of mind," it was officially named "Jing'an Jiaosi" (Jing'an Buddhist Temple). The famous "Yongquan" (gushing spring) in front of the temple was hailed as the "Sixth Spring Under Heaven" and became the first of the "Eight Scenic Spots of Jing'an" during the Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties.
- Modern History (Late 19th-Mid-20th Century): Located in the Shanghai International Settlement, Jing'an Temple became a unique entity born from the clash of Chinese and Western cultures. In 1881, on the eighth day of the fourth lunar month, the Buddha's Birthday, a grand temple fair was held in front of the temple, which evolved into the "Jing'an Temple Fair" that continues to this day (later developing into a modern tourist festival). The ravages of war and turmoil in modern times also repeatedly tested the ancient temple.
- Rejuvenation (Late 20th Century to Present): Since 1984, Jing'an Temple has undergone comprehensive restoration and reconstruction. In particular, in the early 21st century, following the regulations of the Song Dynasty's "Yingzao Fashi" (Building Standards), teak wood was used for the main structure and copper tile roof. After more than ten years of meticulous construction, it has become the magnificent and structurally rigorous modern Song Dynasty-style Buddhist architectural complex that is now one of Shanghai's most important cultural landmarks.

In-depth understanding: Explore more ancient Chinese temples >> [White Horse Temple in Luoyang] | [Lingyin Temple in Hangzhou]

Zen Space – A Tranquil Oasis in the City
Although Jing'an Temple is located in a bustling city, its interior layout and details create a tranquil atmosphere that progresses in layers.

- The mountain gate and the "Chiwu Mountain" plaque: The towering mountain gate hall hangs with the plaque "Jing'an Temple". Pay special attention to the back, where the plaque "Chiwu Mountain" hangs, indicating the temple's long history dating back to the Chiwu year of the Eastern Wu Dynasty, instantly transporting visitors into the long river of history.
- The Blessing and Wisdom Cauldron and the Peace Bell Tower: Upon entering the temple, the first thing that catches the eye is the 15.5-ton Bronze Blessing and Wisdom Cauldron, and the symmetrical Peace Bell Tower and Prosperity Drum Tower. The morning bell and evening drum are the rhythm of temple life, and also express wishes for the prosperity of the city and the well-being of the people.
- Courtyard gardens and ancient trees: The temple grounds are meticulously arranged with lush greenery. Beside the bustling Nanjing West Road, this is a rare ecological micro-space where one can breathe deeply and find peace of mind. Magnolias in spring and ginkgo trees in autumn add natural seasonal beauty to the golden architecture.

Architectural Treasures: A Palace of Song Dynasty Legacy and Buddhist Art
The buildings here are not only religious sites, but also a concentrated display of classical Chinese architectural techniques and Buddhist art.

- The Mahavira Hall – the core of the temple: The central building of the entire temple, solemn and majestic. The seated statue of Shakyamuni Buddha enshrined inside is carved from a single piece of Burmese white jade, standing 3.87 meters tall and weighing 11 tons. Its compassionate and dignified countenance makes it a true treasure of the temple. The roof of the hall is covered with copper tiles, which gleam brilliantly in the sunlight, creating a magnificent and imposing atmosphere.
- Song Dynasty-style wooden architectural complex: The entire Jing'an Temple complex was rebuilt strictly according to the Song Dynasty's "Yingzao Fashi" (Building Standards). Looking around, one sees massive brackets, deep eaves, and upright roof lines, reproducing the elegance and strength of Song Dynasty architecture. All wooden structures are made of precious teak, which is rot-resistant and insect-proof, ensuring its preservation for a thousand years.
- Ashoka Pillar and artifacts from various dynasties:
- Ashoka Pillar: Located in the square in front of the temple, it originates from the ancient Indian tradition of erecting pillars for the propagation of Buddhism by the Ashoka Emperor, symbolizing the solemnity and peace of Buddhism.
- Hongwu Bell: An ancient bell cast in the second year of the Hongwu reign of the Ming Dynasty (1369). It has a long history and a deep, resonant sound.
- Sutra pillars and inscriptions: The temple preserves Qing Dynasty stone sutra pillars and inscriptions recording renovations over the years, which are important material materials for studying the history of the temple and the local history of Shanghai.
- Guanyin Hall and Vegetarian Cuisine: The Thousand-Hand Guanyin statue enshrined in the Guanyin Hall is exquisite. The vegetarian cuisine on the east side of the temple is renowned, offering delicate mock meat dishes and snacks, integrating the taste experience into a Zen-inspired lifestyle.

Photography Tips:
> - Best panoramic shooting position: the square in front of the temple, where you can look up to capture the layered scenery of the mountain gate and the Mahavira Hall behind it, with the city skyscrapers as a backdrop, creating a contrast between the ancient and the modern.
> - Architectural detail shooting position: Platform in front of the Mahavira Hall, to capture the exquisite structure of the brackets and copper tiles, using side lighting to express the texture.
> - Atmospheric shooting angles: The Peace Bell Tower or a corner of the courtyard, capturing moments of incense smoke and tranquil light and shadow.
- Important Notes: Taking photos of Buddha statues directly inside the temple is generally prohibited. Please be sure to abide by the temple's regulations and show respect.

Five Must-Do Things to Unlock the Complete Jing'an Journey
1. Admire the white jade Buddha and the Song Dynasty-style architecture.
Location: Mahavira Hall. Gazing quietly at the Shakyamuni Buddha statue carved from a single piece of Burmese white jade, feel its tranquility and solemnity. At the same time, appreciate the architectural details of the hall dating back to the Song Dynasty.
2. Listen to the morning bell and evening drum.
- Time: Pay attention to the daily morning bell and evening drum times announced by the temple (usually twice a day). Although you may not be able to ring the bell yourself, listening to the deep, resonant sound that cuts through the noise is a moment that cleanses the soul.
3. Enjoy a refined vegetarian meal.
- Location: Vegetarian restaurant at the temple. Whether it's simple vegetarian noodles or an exquisite vegetarian feast, experience the "Zen on the tip of your tongue" and feel the elegance and health of vegetarian culture.
4. Participate in a prayer ceremony
- Time: On the first and fifteenth days of the lunar calendar, as well as the birthdays of Buddhas and Bodhisattvas, temples will hold grand prayer ceremonies. Check the calendar in advance; if you happen to be there, you can observe or participate and experience the solemn religious atmosphere.
5. Collect a unique cultural and creative stamp.
- Location: Temple's Buddhist supplies shop. In recent years, Jing'an Temple has also developed distinctive cultural and creative products, including a beautifully crafted temple-themed seal as a unique souvenir.

Suggested tour routes
A visit to the core area of ​​Jing'an Temple takes approximately 1-2 hours. We have designed the following two efficient tour options for you:

"Quick and Relaxing Tour" (Suitable for those with limited time):
Arrive in the morning or afternoon → Enter through the mountain gate and admire the "Chiwu Mountain" inscription → Visit the Mahavira Hall and pay homage to the white jade Buddha (20 minutes) → Visit the bell and drum towers and courtyards on the east and west sides (15 minutes) → Proceed to the Dharma goods sales point to purchase souvenirs or have a simple meal at the vegetarian restaurant (20 minutes) → Depart.
IntoTravelChina Tip: This itinerary is packed, so it is recommended to avoid peak pilgrimage days such as the first and fifteenth of the lunar month for a better experience.

Half-day "Urban Meditation" In-depth Tour (Highly Recommended):
- Morning (9:00-11:30): Arrive at Jing'an Temple. Do not rush to enter. Take a moment to appreciate the contrast between the city and the ancient temple in the square in front of the temple. Afterward, enter the temple and follow the "Quiet and Quick Tour" route for a detailed visit, focusing on studying the inscriptions and appreciating the architectural details.
- Lunch (11:30-12:30): Enjoy a quiet lunch at the vegetarian restaurant inside the temple.
- Afternoon (after 12:30): After leaving the temple, stroll to the nearby Jing'an Park (free admission) and savor the Zen spirit in this urban green lung. Alternatively, visit the nearby Zhangyuan Shikumen Style Area to experience Shanghai-style historical architecture.
IntoTravelChina's advantages: We can book vegetarian meals for you, plan walking routes connecting to nearby attractions such as Jing'an Park and Zhang Garden, and provide detailed historical background explanations, so that your visit goes beyond the surface.

Professional Guide: IntoTravelChina offers personalized itineraries, including a dedicated guide, transportation, and activity arrangements, ensuring a worry-free and in-depth travel experience. >> [Inquire Now for a Customized Itinerary]

How to get there: A seamless connection guide
Jing'an Temple is located at the core transfer hub of the Shanghai Metro network, making public transportation extremely convenient.
- Subway (the preferred option): Take Subway Line 2, Line 7, or Line 14 to Jing'an Temple Station. The temple is right outside the station. Multiple exits provide convenient access to all entrances of the temple.
- Public Transportation: There are dozens of bus stops along Nanjing West Road, Huashan Road, and Changde Road in the surrounding area, with a dense network of bus routes.
- Taxi/Ride-hailing: Navigate to "Jing'an Temple (1686 Nanjing West Road)," but the area is busy and you may have to wait a short time to pick up or drop off passengers.
- Special reminder: The temple is located in the absolute city center, and parking is extremely difficult and expensive. It is strongly advised against driving there.

Best time to visit
Jing'an Temple is suitable for all seasons, but its tranquil atmosphere in the morning and on weekdays best reveals its Zen essence.
- Spring and autumn (March-May, September-November): The climate is comfortable, making it ideal for strolling through the temple courtyards and experiencing the harmony between nature and architecture.
- Weekdays (Monday to Friday): Fewer tourists, allowing you to better enjoy the temple's tranquil atmosphere, making it the best time for in-depth visits and photography.
- Holidays and Buddhist festivals (please note): During the first and fifteenth days of the lunar calendar, Buddha's Birthday (the eighth day of the fourth lunar month), and the Spring Festival, there will be a large number of worshippers and the atmosphere will be extremely lively, but it may be crowded. If you like lively and grand Dharma assemblies, you can choose this time; if you seek tranquility, it is recommended to avoid it.
- Early morning: Enter the temple as soon as it opens, when the air is fresh and before the worshippers arrive, so you can best experience the tranquility amidst the bustling city.

Tickets and nearby accommodation options
- Admission: Jing'an Temple implements a system of purchasing incense and flower vouchers (admission tickets) for entry, with a fixed price.
- A wide variety of accommodation options nearby:
- Jing'an Temple/Nanjing West Road Core Area (Preferred): The area is surrounded by numerous top international luxury hotels (such as Jing'an Shangri-La, PuLi Hotel and Spa) and high-end business hotels. The temple is within walking distance, allowing you to enjoy the convenience of the city center.
- North of Jing'an Temple (Changde Road and Yuyuan Road area): There are many boutique hotels and hotels converted from historical buildings, with unique styles and full of Shanghai style, and they are also very close to each other.
- Xujiahui or People's Square area: accessible by subway in 1-2 stops, with a wider range of hotels to choose from and potentially better value for money.

IntoTravelChina Service Recommendations:
While Jing'an Temple tickets can be purchased on-site, booking through us allows you to bundle them with tickets for other Shanghai attractions (such as museums and Huangpu River cruises), often offering convenience and discounted deals. For bookings of nearby high-end hotels, we can leverage our resources to secure your preferred room type and discounted prices. Tell us your budget and accommodation preferences, and we'll match you with the most suitable "urban Zen-inspired home." >> [Click to contact an IntoTravelChina travel consultant]

Jing'an Temple is not an isolated attraction, but one of the best starting points for exploring Shanghai's unique culture, from tradition to modernity.

- Classic "Urban Cultural Heritage" Half-Day/Full-Day Route: Jing'an Temple → Walk to Jing'an Park and Cai Yuanpei's Former Residence → Stroll along the Yuyuan Road Historical District → Visit the Shanghai Exhibition Center (formerly the Sino-Soviet Friendship Building). This is a classic urban walking route that encapsulates religion, history, architecture, and the daily lives of ordinary citizens.
- "Shanghai Style" In-Depth One-Day Itinerary: Visit Jing'an Temple in the morning → Enjoy local Shanghai cuisine at noon nearby → Explore Zhangyuan Shikumen architectural complex in the afternoon → Head to Xintiandi in the evening to experience the modern revitalization of Shikumen → Experience the exquisite shops and coffee culture in Hengfu Historical and Cultural District (Wukang Road, Anfu Road) in the evening.
- The "Faith and Art" themed route: connecting Jing'an Temple with Jade Buddha Temple, Xujiahui Catholic Church and Shanghai Museum or Shanghai Museum of Contemporary Art, allowing you to experience Shanghai's diverse religious culture and artistic achievements. >>Contact us to customize the above related itinerary

The story of Jing'an Temple is related to the adherence to thousands of years of faith, the inheritance of architectural art and the settlement of the urban soul. IntoTravelChina focuses on creating a deep, personalized, and hassle-free Chinese urban travel experience. Our travel experts can help you:
- Tailor-made itinerary: Design the perfect route to include Jing'an Temple and various cultural attractions in Shanghai based on your interests and time.
- One-stop service: Get tickets, special accommodation, transportation, local expert guides and cultural event reservations.
- Exclusive Experiences: Arrange in-depth cultural experiences such as vegetarian reservations, private time visits and explanations (subject to availability), and exchanges with the masters (advance application required).

Let your trip to Jing'an Temple not only be a visit, but also a cultural practice that connects history and the present, and communicates the external hustle and bustle with the inner peace.
> Start planning your journey today
> Welcome to contact our professional travel consultants, we will provide you with an exclusive itinerary plan and quotation within 24 hours. >> [Click to contact IntoTravelChina Travel Consultant]