Those looking for key attractions in Shanghai to add to their sightseeing itinerary should include Jing’An Temple which offers insights into a rich heritage and history.
Getting There
This temple with its gleaming golden roof is conveniently located on West Nanjing Road; easy to reach for those staying at a service apartment Shanghai has to offer in the city centre, it stands amidst the hustle and bustle of the metropolis and can be accessed from the Jing'an Temple Station.
Temple History
The origins of the temple date to China’s Three Kingdoms Period in the third century. Originally built next to Suzhou Creek, it was moved to its current location in the Southern Song Dynasty and was even used as a plastics factory during the Cultural Revolution! It burnt down in the 1970s before being thankfully restored later.
Fascinating Halls
Amongst the key things to see at the Jing’An Temple are its halls. Of note, is the Mahavira Hall with a silver Buddha which weighs 15 tonnes and Guanyin Hall that has a statue of Guanyin, carved from a camphor tree said to have been 1,000 years old. At the site, you will also find an impressive Burmese white jade Sakyamuni too.
Other Highlights
Those exploring the temple have other things to see as well; this includes a bell that dates to the Ming Dynasty, a space under the main hall that has golden statues of the 18 arhats and various calligraphy and paintings. Also worth seeing is the Festival of Bathing Buddha which takes place here annually.
