Longhua Temple Shanghai
Shanghai's oldest and largest Buddhist temple, featuring a historic pagoda and serene gardens, offering a glimpse into ancient Chinese spirituality.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Longhua Temple Shanghai
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Shanghai's oldest and largest Buddhist temple, featuring a historic pagoda and serene gardens, offering a glimpse into ancient Chinese spirituality.
"A beautiful temple with a calming atmosphere, offering a peaceful escape and rich history."
Free Entry to Temple
You can often enter the temple grounds for free, no ticket needed! :ticket:
Wear Respectful Attire
Dress modestly to show respect for this active place of worship. :pray:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Longhua Pagoda
Front of Longhua Temple
Shanghai's only thousand-year-old pagoda, a seven-story marvel with Song Dynasty style and melodic bells.
Main Temple Halls
Temple Complex
Explore impressive halls with intricate statues and beautiful wooden sculptures, offering a sense of peace and history.
Traditional Gardens
Temple Grounds
Wander through serene gardens, once famous for peach blossoms, offering a tranquil escape within the city.
Vegetarian Noodles
Temple Restaurant
Savor delicious and famous vegetarian noodles, a culinary highlight for many visitors.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Serenity
Understanding Temple Etiquette
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Free Entry to Temple
You can often enter the temple grounds for free, no ticket needed! :ticket:
Wear Respectful Attire
Dress modestly to show respect for this active place of worship. :pray:
Try the Veggie Noodles
Don't miss the famous vegetarian noodles served at the temple restaurant. Delicious! :ramen:
Research Buddhist Customs
Learn a bit about Buddhism beforehand to better appreciate the statues and rituals. :books:
Tips
from all over the internet
Free Entry to Temple
You can often enter the temple grounds for free, no ticket needed! :ticket:
Wear Respectful Attire
Dress modestly to show respect for this active place of worship. :pray:
Try the Veggie Noodles
Don't miss the famous vegetarian noodles served at the temple restaurant. Delicious! :ramen:
Research Buddhist Customs
Learn a bit about Buddhism beforehand to better appreciate the statues and rituals. :books:
Metro Access is Easy
Take Line 12 to Longhua Station, Exit 3 for convenient access. :subway:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Longhua Temple for its historical significance, serene atmosphere, and impressive architecture, particularly the ancient pagoda. Many appreciate the free entry and the opportunity to experience traditional Buddhist culture. Some suggest researching customs beforehand for a richer visit.
"Longhua Pagoda & Longhua Temple
Located on the Longhua Road in Xuhui District, Longhua Park is famous for the ancient Longhua Temple, Longhua Pagoda, the Evening Bell-Striking Ceremony and the peach blossoms.
First built in 242 AD, which is during the period of the Three Kingdoms, Longhua Temple is the oldest temple in Shanghai for its long history of over 1,700 years. Because of the several destructions by the wars, most of the buildings here were reconstructed during the reign of the Emperor Tongzhi and Guangxu in the Qing Dynasty.
The seven-storied, 40.4 meters high Longhua Pagoda stands in front of the Longhua Temple, the brick body and the wooden staircases make up its main structure. Each storey is smaller than the storey below, and all the levels are encircled by balconies and banisters. Bells on each corner of the octagonal eaves make cheerful and lively sounds as the wind passes by. The pagoda has been rebuilt several times, but the style of the Song Dynasty still remains to today.
In late spring, when the peaches in Longhua Park are in full blossom and the temple fair (on the 3rd March, lunar calendar) is under way, large numbers of visitors and pilgrims will come and the Longhua Temple will become a place of great hustle and bustle. The whole courtyard was built strictly in the style of traditional Buddhist symmetry and it's in accordance with the Chinese concept of beauty."
Cocowlyn
"It is said that Longhua Temple was built by Sun Quan for his mother during the Three Kingdoms period, more than 1,700 years ago. The architecture of Longhua Temple is the seven-hall system of the Song Dynasty. Longhua Pagoda is the only thousand-year-old pagoda in the center of Shanghai. It is known as the "crown of pagodas" in Shanghai and was once the commanding height of the Longhua area."
FS Chong
"My Family fave temple! Big and really focus on praying (not like some temple focus on selling some products)
Its big and have a calming atmosphere :)"
Hellen
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The easiest way to reach Longhua Temple is by metro. Take Line 12 to Longhua Station and use Exit 3. This station is conveniently located right across from the temple complex. :subway:
Yes, Longhua Temple is very accessible by public transport, primarily via the Shanghai Metro. Line 12 is the most direct route. :bus:
For a day trip, the metro is highly recommended for its efficiency and ease of use. It avoids Shanghai's notorious traffic. :metro:
Taxis are readily available in Shanghai, but traffic can be unpredictable. Using a ride-sharing app might be more convenient. :taxi:
While parking might be available, it's generally not recommended due to potential congestion and difficulty finding spots, especially during peak times. :car:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Many visitors report that entering the main temple grounds is free of charge. However, specific areas or exhibitions might have separate fees. :ticket:
The temple is generally open daily, but specific hours can vary. It's advisable to check for the most current information closer to your visit. :clock:
While the temple grounds are often free, access to climb the pagoda or enter certain inner sanctums might incur a fee. :moneybag:
Yes, you can visit during CNY, but be prepared for very large crowds as it's a significant time for prayer and temple fairs. :fireworks:
Historically, the temple fair on the 3rd of March (lunar calendar) is a major event, attracting many visitors. :calendar:
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the historic Longhua Pagoda, the impressive main temple halls with their statues and wooden sculptures, and the serene traditional gardens. :camera:
Absolutely! The temple's architecture, the pagoda, and the gardens offer many beautiful photo opportunities, especially during golden hour. :iphone:
Visitors often describe the atmosphere as calming and peaceful, offering a serene escape from the bustling city. :dove:
Yes, Longhua Temple is known for people praying for career success. You are welcome to visit and make your wishes. :chartwithupwards_trend:
Some visitors have noted seeing animals roaming around the temple grounds. :cat2:
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Longhua Temple is famous for its delicious vegetarian noodles, which are a must-try for many visitors. :ramen:
Besides noodles, you might find other vegan options like seitan and pickles, reflecting the Buddhist tradition of vegetarianism. :leafy_green:
The temple itself has a restaurant. For more diverse dining options, the surrounding Xuhui District offers numerous choices. :forkandknife:
The food is generally considered affordable, offering good value for a unique temple dining experience. :moneywithwings:
While the temple focuses on vegetarian fare, the Xuhui District is a large urban area with a wide variety of restaurants catering to all tastes. :hamburger:
📸 📸 Photography
The Longhua Pagoda, the intricate details of the temple halls, the serene gardens, and the floral arrangements are all excellent subjects. :camerawithflash:
Photography rules can vary. It's best to observe signage or ask discreetly. Generally, exterior shots and garden photos are welcomed. :noentrysign:
Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the temple's beauty. Golden hour is particularly stunning. :sunriseovermountains:
Drone usage is typically prohibited in and around religious sites and densely populated urban areas in Shanghai. :drone:
It's respectful to avoid photographing individuals who are actively praying or participating in religious ceremonies without their explicit consent. :respect:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
🧘 Spiritual Seekers & Culture Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History: The Ancient Roots of Longhua Temple
+1The Longhua Pagoda, standing prominently before the temple, is a significant landmark. This seven-storied pagoda, measuring 40.4 meters high, features a brick body and wooden staircases, with each level diminishing in size as it ascends. Balconies and banisters encircle all levels, and bells on the eaves create a melodious sound with the wind. While rebuilt several times, its design still echoes the style of the Song Dynasty, making it a unique historical artifact.
Historically, the temple was also known for its peach blossoms and a vibrant temple fair held on the 3rd of March according to the lunar calendar. During this time, the temple and its surrounding park would become a hub of activity, attracting large numbers of visitors and pilgrims. This tradition highlights the temple's role not just as a spiritual center but also as a place of community gathering and celebration.
Culinary Delights: The Famous Vegetarian Noodles
+1These vegetarian meals are rooted in Buddhist traditions, which often emphasize a plant-based diet. Beyond the popular noodles, you might also find other vegan options such as seitan and pickles, prepared with care and adhering to the principles of Buddhist cuisine. This culinary aspect adds another layer to the visitor experience, offering a taste of local culture and tradition.
The affordability of the food is also a plus, making it an accessible and enjoyable part of a visit to Longhua Temple. It provides a wholesome and satisfying meal that complements the serene atmosphere of the temple grounds, making it a well-rounded cultural and sensory experience. :ramen:
Navigating Longhua Temple: Practical Tips for Visitors
When it comes to visiting, many travelers note that entry to the main temple grounds is often free, which is a pleasant surprise for many. However, it's always a good idea to be prepared for potential fees for specific areas or if you wish to climb the pagoda. Dressing respectfully is also advised, as it is an active place of worship. :pray:
For those interested in photography, the temple offers numerous picturesque spots, from the ancient pagoda to the tranquil gardens and the ornate halls. Visiting during the early morning or late afternoon can provide softer lighting and a more peaceful environment for capturing the temple's beauty. :camerawithflash:
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit