Yan Zhou
What's Inside
I've lost count of how many times I've brought first-timers to Jing'an Temple. And every time, I see the same panicked look when they realize — the ticket booth only speaks Chinese, and the WeChat mini-program requires a local bank card. This guide is built from those pain points. Forget the generic tips. Here's exactly how to get in, what to see, and where to save your energy.
Tickets & How to Book (Avoid the Queue)
First, the bad news: you can't buy tickets with cash at the gate anymore. The only official way is via a WeChat mini-program called “静安寺预约” — and it's entirely in Chinese. If you're not a WeChat Pay user, this is a huge hurdle. Here's the workaround I use for my groups.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Adult Ticket | 50 RMB (about $7 USD) |
| Reduced Ticket | 25 RMB for children (1.2m-1.5m) and seniors (65+) with valid ID |
| Booking Method | WeChat mini-program (scan QR at entrance). Alternatively, ask your hotel concierge to book for you — most will do it. |
| Payment | WeChat Pay or Alipay only. No international credit cards, no cash. |
| Offline Option | If you absolutely can't use WeChat, there's a tiny human-staffed window on the east side of the gate — but it's often closed or very slow. |
| Book in Advance? | Not required for weekdays, but on weekends and Buddhist holidays you should book 1-2 days ahead. |
Opening Hours & Best Time to Visit
The temple opens daily from 7:30 AM to 5:00 PM, with the last entry at 4:30 PM. But here's what most guides won't tell you: avoid 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM if you can. That's when tour buses dump hundreds of visitors. I've seen the main hall so packed you can't even see the Buddha statue.
My favorite slot? 3:30 PM to 4:30 PM. The light softens, the golden roof glows, and the crowds thin out dramatically. Plus, you can catch the evening chanting session if you're lucky.
Special note: The temple closes to outsiders during major Buddhist ceremonies (like the Buddha's Birthday in May). Check the official WeChat account or ask your hotel before going.
Getting There: Metro & Bus Directions
The temple sits right in the heart of Jing'an District, and the metro is your best bet.
Metro (Subway)
Take Line 2 or Line 7 to Jing'an Temple Station. Exit from Exit 1 — you'll see the temple's golden spire immediately. Walk straight for about 2 minutes. No need for a map.
Bus
Several buses stop right outside: routes 20, 37, 40, 113, 315, 323, 327, 330, 824, 927. Get off at “Jing'an Temple” stop. Buses 40 and 113 are the most frequent from the Bund area.
Taxi / Didi
Show the driver this: “请到静安寺正门” (Please take me to the main gate of Jing'an Temple). If you're coming from People's Square, it's about 15 RMB and 10 minutes (non-peak).
What to See Inside (Don't Miss These Spots)
The temple complex is smaller than you'd expect — about 30 minutes if you're rushing, but you'll want at least 1 hour to truly appreciate it.
The Main Hall (Da Xiong Bao Dian)
Houses a stunning 6-meter-tall jade Buddha. The carvings on the ceiling are insane — lie flat on your back if you can (just not during peak hours or the monks will give you a look).
The Golden Roof
Made with over 100 kg of gold leaf. Best photo spot is from the east side of the courtyard around 4 PM when the sun catches it directly. Avoid noon — it's too bright and washes out the details.
The Bell Tower
You can ring the bell for 10 RMB — but only during specific hours (usually 9-11 AM and 2-4 PM). Bring small bills; they don't make change for large notes.
The Sutra Library (Not Always Open)
If you see the door open, peek in. There are ancient handwritten sutras from the Ming Dynasty. Absolutely no photography allowed.
Dress Code & Rules Tourists Often Break
This is still an active Buddhist temple, so respect is non-negotiable. Here's what I tell my groups:
- Cover shoulders and knees. No tank tops, no mini skirts. If you show up in a crop top, the security will hand you a wrap — it's bright orange and ugly.
- Take off your hat and sunglasses when entering any hall.
- No photos inside the main hall (the signs are in Chinese but easy to miss).
- Pointing at Buddha statues with one finger is considered rude. Use an open hand (palm up) if you need to indicate something.
- Silence your phone. The chanting sessions are serene, and a ringtone will get you stared down by everyone.
Combining with Nearby Attractions
Jing'an Temple is perfectly located. After your visit, you can walk to:
- Jing'an Park (2 min walk): A peaceful green space. On Sunday mornings, there's a spontaneous English corner where locals practice English — great for meeting people.
- Shanghai Exhibition Center (10 min walk): Soviet-era architecture, often hosts trade fairs.
- Nanjing West Road (5 min walk): High-end shopping. For a break, grab a coffee at Manner Coffee (branch inside the metro concourse) — they do excellent lattes for 15 RMB.
- Bund (20 min by taxi): Don't try to walk it — too far. But the temple + Bund makes a perfect half-day combo.
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