Fang Wang
Quick Guide (tap to jump)
I’ve brought dozens of groups to Jing'an Temple over the years, and the first question I always get is: “How much is the ticket?” The answer isn’t always simple. The price changes slightly depending on special exhibitions or holidays, and there are discounts most tourists never hear about. Let me break it down so you don’t waste a single yuan.
Current Jing'an Temple Ticket Price (Standard & Discounted)
As of my last visit, the standard adult admission is 50 RMB (about $7 USD). That covers the main temple grounds, halls, and the famous 8-tonne (yes, 8 tonnes!) pure silver Maitreya Buddha statue. But here’s the catch — the ticket you buy at the gate only gets you into the temple itself. The surrounding park is free.
| Ticket Type | Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Adult (standard) | 50 RMB | Full price, no discounts |
| Child (height under 1.3m) | Free | No ticket needed |
| Student (full-time, under 24) | 25 RMB | Requires valid student ID |
| Senior (≥70 years, Chinese ID) | Free | Foreign seniors? Usually full price – ask at window |
| Group (≥10 people) | 40 RMB/person | Must book 24hrs in advance via phone |
How to Buy Tickets – Online vs. On-Site
On-site is straightforward: walk to the ticket windows to the right of the main gate. But lines can be 15–20 minutes long on weekends. I always tell my clients to book online if possible.
Online option: Use the WeChat mini-program called “静安寺门票预约” (Jing'an Temple Ticket Reservation). It’s only in Chinese, which is a nightmare for first-timers. Ask your hotel receptionist to help you set it up – they do it all the time. The online price is the same 50 RMB, but you skip the queue. Just scan your phone at the turnstile.
Here is the catch: The online system often runs out of tickets for same-day visits during holidays (like Chinese New Year or Buddha’s Birthday). If you can’t get an online slot, show up before 8:30 AM – the on-site window usually still has paper tickets left.
Discounts & Free Entry – Who Really Qualifies?
Most tourists pay full price. But there are two lesser-known free-entry days:
- World Heritage Day (second Saturday of June) – temple often opens gates for free.
- China Tourism Day (May 19) – similar free access, but not always announced in English.
Also: if you’re a journalist with a valid press card, you can enter free. Some art students with a letter from their school have gotten in for half price. It never hurts to ask nicely at the window.
Best Time to Visit – Beat the Crowds & Save Time
Jing'an Temple sits smack in the middle of a busy commercial district. It’s packed from 10 AM to 3 PM, especially with tour groups. I always bring my guests at 8:00 AM sharp, right when the gates open. Why?
- No line at the ticket booth
- The morning light hits the golden roof perfectly for photos
- The chanting ceremony starts around 8:30 – you can listen for free
Avoid after 4 PM – the temple starts closing sections by 5 PM (last entry 4:30 PM). And never go on a Monday if you can help it; many nearby restaurants are closed.
Getting to Jing'an Temple – Subway Is Your Best Bet
The temple is at 1686 Nanjing West Road. The nearest subway station is Jing'an Temple Station (Lines 2, 7, and 14). Take Exit 1 – you’ll see the temple’s pagoda right in front of you. Walk 2 minutes, that’s it.
If you’re coming by taxi, tell the driver “Jing'an Si” (pronounced jing-ahn suh). The drop-off point is on Nanjing West Road, but cars often queue. Get out at the intersection of Huashan Road and walk east for 100 meters.
No comments yet.