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Jing'an Temple

静安寺
Jìng'ān Sì
Heritage Site45-60 minutes7:30 AM – 5 PM92/100 popularity
A vibrant scene of Jing'an Temple with modern skyscrapers in Shanghai, China.
Founded in 247 AD and rebuilt several times, Jing'an Temple is one of Shanghai's oldest active Buddhist temples — but the version visitors meet today is unmistakably modern: glazed gold-tiled roofs, towering carved wood pillars, and a silver Buddha hall surrounded by Tower Plaza shopping malls. The juxtaposition is one of the most photographed scenes in the city. Inside, monks chant sutras and visitors light incense in the Mahavira Hall. Entry is around 50 RMB. Buy your ticket at the gate (cash, Alipay, or WeChat) — no advance booking. Allow 45-60 minutes. The temple is fully wheelchair accessible and signs are bilingual.
Address
1686 West Nanjing Road, Jing'an District, Shanghai
静安区南京西路1686号

Highlights

  • Gold-roofed temple (金顶寺庙)Striking contrast with surrounding skyscrapers; most photographed scene
  • Mahavira Hall (大雄宝殿)Monks chant sutras; visitors light incense
  • Silver Buddha Hall (银佛殿)Surrounded by Tower Plaza malls; modern juxtaposition

For foreign visitors

  • English service: partial english
  • Cards accepted: cash_only
  • Booking / entry: not needed
  • Best time: Weekday mornings, 7:30-10:00 AM
  • Wi-Fi: none
  • Transit access: metro direct

Photos

Jing'an Temple's golden rooftops surrounded by modern skyscrapers in Shanghai cityscape.
Explore the majestic Buddhist temple under a clear blue sky in Shanghai, capturing intricate gold details and ancient architecture.
Detailed close-up of a golden Buddha statue's foot, highlighting intricate design and craftsmanship in Shanghai.
Ornate golden Buddha statue in a Shanghai temple with intricate decorations.
Group of people in a courtyard at Jingan Temple, Shanghai, enjoying the cultural ambiance.
Beautiful traditional Chinese temple gate in Shanghai, captured during sunset, highlighting cultural architecture.
A row of altars with yellow cloths and flowers in sunlight at a temple in Shanghai, China.
A serene view of a temple interior in Shanghai with sunlight creating dramatic patterns on the floor.
Low angle view of a beautifully lit traditional Chinese building in Shanghai at night.
Nighttime view of illuminated traditional Chinese architecture featuring red lanterns in Shanghai.
Intricate details of traditional Chinese temple roof eaves, showcasing cultural heritage.
Close-up of a golden Buddha statue in an ornate Asian temple.
A bustling temple courtyard in Shanghai, with people engaged in rituals and vibrant decorations.
A stunning golden Buddha statue in a Seoul temple, reflecting serenity and artistry.

What travelers say (3 reviews)

Hannah K.·TripAdvisor·5/5

Surreal experience seeing gold rooftops between glass towers. Surprisingly peaceful inside.

2026-04-12
Daniel P.·Google Maps·4/5

Worth the 50 RMB ticket. Bring small bills — no credit cards at the gate.

2026-03-08
都市寻禅·Xiaohongshu·5/5

金顶配玻璃幕墙，这种反差感全世界独一份。

2026-02-25

Videos

shanghai vlog 💌 life in china, cute cafes, jing’an district, fun nights & what to eat
shanghai vlog 💌 life in china, cute cafes, jing’an district, fun nights & what to eat
Via Li

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