Jade Buddha Temple
#7 in Best Things To Do in Shanghai
Details
scorecard
- 4.0Value
- 4.5Facilities
- 4.0Atmosphere
One of the city's most popular attractions, the Jade Buddha Temple impresses visitors with its legion of statues. The temple was originally built to house two jade statues brought in from Burma. But over time, its collection of ornate statues grew, subsequently drawing crowds in droves. While you should definitely pay homage to the jade buddhas, there are other figures that merit your attention. In the Grand Hall, three golden Buddhas represent the incarnations of Buddha (past, present and future), while the Heavenly King Hall features four heavenly kings surrounding more buddhas, acting as divine protectors. There's also the Hall of the Reclining Buddha, which houses the second jade buddha statue, carved from a single piece of white jade. It's also worth noting that the temple is one of Shanghai's few active Buddhist monasteries, so many monks call this place home.
Recent visitors reported thoroughly enjoying their trip to the Jade Buddha Temple, calling the attraction both tranquil and beautiful. The artwork is awe-inspiring, with many travelers strongly suggesting future visitors take time to admire the uniqueness of the Jade Buddha. Photography of the buddha, however, is prohibited. And keep in mind that the temple does get quite busy, so try to arrive early in the morning to beat the crowds.
The temple welcomes visitors from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. every day. Admission reportedly costs 20 yuan (about $3); however, there is an additional charge of 10 yuan (about $1.50) to enter the Jade Buddha chamber. The temple is located north of downtown Shanghai. To reach the site, take the metro to the Changshou Road Station. For more information, check out the tourism board's website.
More Best Things To Do in Shanghai
#1 The Bund
Shanghai's picturesque waterfront, known as "the Bund," is where you'll find those classic skyline photo ops. With the Oriental Pearl TV Tower, the Shanghai World Financial Center and other skyscrapers standing across the Huangpu River, the view (on a clear day) stuns. And behind you, gorgeous European-style buildings housing restaurants and shops (Nanjing Road is just around the corner) line the waterfront boulevard, affording plenty of activities.
Though a gateway to other attractions, the views from the Bund were the only thing on most travelers minds. Visitors consistently report being in complete awe of Shanghai's skyline, so much so that some said skipping this attraction would be like skipping the Eiffel Tower in Paris. Most agreed the best time is to go at night – the skyscrapers illuminated in different colors create an unbeatable photo op. Not only that, but smog can occur during the day, and depending on the weather, can hinder one's first-time viewing experience. But whichever time you decide to visit, know that many other people want to experience this picture perfect moment too – so expect crowds around the clock. And considering the immense tourist traffic the Bund receives, vendors and pesky hawkers set up shop here too.
Shanghai's picturesque waterfront, known as "the Bund," is where you'll find those classic skyline photo ops. With the Oriental Pearl TV Tower, the Shanghai World Financial Center and other skyscrapers standing across the Huangpu River, the view (on a clear day) stuns. And behind you, gorgeous European-style buildings housing restaurants and shops (Nanjing Road is just around the corner) line the waterfront boulevard, affording plenty of activities.
Though a gateway to other attractions, the views from the Bund were the only thing on most travelers minds. Visitors consistently report being in complete awe of Shanghai's skyline, so much so that some said skipping this attraction would be like skipping the Eiffel Tower in Paris. Most agreed the best time is to go at night – the skyscrapers illuminated in different colors create an unbeatable photo op. Not only that, but smog can occur during the day, and depending on the weather, can hinder one's first-time viewing experience. But whichever time you decide to visit, know that many other people want to experience this picture perfect moment too – so expect crowds around the clock. And considering the immense tourist traffic the Bund receives, vendors and pesky hawkers set up shop here too.
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