Jing’an Temple

Historical Overview

The temple’s origins trace to the Three Kingdoms era, when it was named Hudong Temple. Over centuries, it was destroyed by wars and rebuilt, notably in the Song Dynasty (11th century) and Ming Dynasty (16th century). In 1882, a major reconstruction under the Qing’s Guangxu Emperor solidified its current layout. During the 20th century, it survived Japan’s occupation and the Communist Revolution, serving as a factory and warehouse before a 1983 restoration revived its religious and cultural significance. Today, it hosts festivals like Buddha’s Birthday and the Lantern Fair, merging ancient rituals with contemporary worship.

Structural Layout

1.  The temple follows a central axis with three main sections:Mahavira Hall (Daxiong Baodian): The grand prayer hall housing three gilded Buddha statues (Shakyamuni, Amitabha, and Bhaisajyaguru).

2.  Hall of Heavenly Kings (Tianwang Dian): Guarded by four fierce statues symbolizing the four cardinal directions.

3.  Three-Sage Hall (Sansheng Dian): Dedicated to the temple’s founding monks and a 7-ton jade Buddha from Myanmar.

Key supporting structures include the 9-Story Jing’an Pagoda (a 48.5m-tall steel-and-wood replica of the Song Dynasty original), Bell Tower (housing a 10-ton bronze bell), Drum Tower, Mountain Gate (Shanmen), and Zen Garden with bonsai and rock formations.

Major Attractions

Mahavira Hall Buddha Statues: Lifelike gilded figures (6.8m tall) with intricate carvings and murals.

Jing’an Pagoda: A 21st-century steel-framed pagoda offering panoramic city views from its observation deck.

Three-Sage Hall Jade Buddha: A rare 3.5m-tall jade Buddha from Myanmar, carved from a single block.

Zen Garden (Xiyuan): A tranquil oasis with bamboo groves, koi ponds, and stone lanterns.

Bell Tower: The 10-ton "Peace Bell" (1995), rung during festivals for blessings.

Temple Bazaar: A market adjacent to the temple selling incense, Buddhist amulets, and local crafts.

Suggested Itineraries

• Classic Route (1–1.5 hours):

Mountain Gate → Hall of Heavenly Kings → Mahavira Hall → Three-Sage Hall → Zen Garden → Temple Bazaar

Highlights: Core halls, jade Buddha, and spiritual atmosphere.

• Extended Route (2–3 hours):

Mountain Gate → Bell Tower → Hall of Heavenly Kings → Mahavira Hall → Drum Tower → Three-Sage Hall → Jing’an Pagoda (Observation Deck) → Zen Garden → Temple Bazaar

Highlights: Pagoda climb, drum tower, and panoramic views.

• Comprehensive Route (Half-Day):

Mountain Gate → Bell Tower → Hall of Heavenly Kings → Mahavira Hall → Drum Tower → Three-Sage Hall → Jing’an Pagoda → Zen Garden → Tea Ceremony Experience → Temple Bazaar → Cultural Exhibition Hall

Highlights: Tea rituals, historical exhibits, and in-depth exploration.

Ticket Purchase

Online: Book via the temple’s official WeChat mini-program or Ctrip (up to 3 days in advance).

On-Site: Tickets available at the entrance.

• Prices:

Regular: ¥50 (adults), ¥25 (students/seniors).

Free: Children under 1.2m, disabled visitors, and monks.

Pagoda Observation Deck: Additional ¥20 (optional).

Transportation

By Subway:Line 2/7: Jing’an Temple Station (Exit 3), 1-minute walk to the temple.

By Bus: Routes 15, 20, 37, 45, 57, 76, or 113 to Jing’an Temple Stop.

By Taxi: Direct to "Jing’an Sì" (Jing’an Temple).

Departure: Exit via the east gate to Jing’an Park or West Nanjing Road shopping district.

Best Time & Tips

Peak Hours: Avoid 11 AM–1 PM; visit early (7:30 AM opening) or late (after 4 PM).

Crowds: Weekends and Buddhist holidays (e.g., Buddha’s Birthday) are busiest.

Weather: Spring (March–May) and autumn (October–November) are ideal for outdoor strolls.

• Essentials:

Dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered).

Remove shoes before entering halls.

Photography allowed (no flash in prayer areas).

Prohibited items: Outside food, smoking, and loud noise.