When the gilded Buddha glows amidst skyscrapers,

When ancient temple bells blend with street performers' melodies,

When old Shanghai's neon lights dance with luxury boutique displays

—Yes, this is Jing'an Temple!

A magical place where Zen whispers through your left hand

while urban vibes pulse through your right.

Join VALERII PERESTORONIN (Weili), a student from Shanghai Film Academy, Shanghai University,

as we uncover this extraordinary fusion today!

 

Built during the Three Kingdoms period, Jing'an Temple is one of the oldest surviving temples in Shanghai! Step through its gates, and you'll be greeted by a magnificent 15-ton pure silver statue of Sakyamuni Buddha, shimmering in the hall. Gold-leaf-adorned lotus frames and gem-inlaid murals whisper tales of ancient splendor.

Yet just steps away, towering glass skyscrapers rise abruptly outside the temple walls. This surreal juxtaposition of "ancient pagodas piercing modern high-rises" is a spectacle you'll only witness in Shanghai! Don't miss snapping a photo at the "Dharma-Preserving Pillar" – the golden lion statues facing four directions, framed against a backdrop of neon cityscapes, make for an Instagram-breaking masterpiece with just one click!

Step outside the temple, and you'll find Jing'an Park just a stone's throw away. This urban oasis in the heart of the bustling city offers the perfect escape for relaxation. With its shady groves, crystal-clear lake, and vibrant floral displays, the park's exquisite landscaping creates a visual feast for the senses.

If you visit during the holidays, you might even catch some amazing street performances! Musicians, singers, and artists fill the air with talent and joy, adding a vibrant artistic energy to the city's unique charm.

The bustling commercial district around Jing'an Temple is truly extraordinary. Here, luxury shopping centers like Jiuguang Department Store, Réel Mall, and Jing'an Kerry Centre stand side by side, creating a paradise for fashion enthusiasts. From high-end international brands to the trendiest designer pieces, this area has it all.

Strolling through these malls, you can indulge in retail therapy and savor global flavors at their gourmet zones. From refined Western cuisine to authentic Chinese dishes, and even decadent desserts—every craving is guaranteed to be satisfied.

If you're feeling weary from shopping, why not unwind at a cozy café? Sip on a rich, aromatic coffee while gazing at the bustling streets outside—it's the perfect way to soak in Shanghai's infectious energy and cosmopolitan vibe.

When night falls, make sure to visit the "Paramount Ballroom"—the "No.1 Dance Hall of the Far East"! As neon signs flicker to life, you’ll feel transported to 1930s Shanghai. Sway to live jazz band rhythms in a waltz, or lose yourself in a vintage cabaret show, soaking up the golden age’s irresistible charm.

Jing'an Temple is far more than just a temple—it's a vibrant fusion of history, culture, art, shopping, and entertainment. Whether you seek the profound wisdom of Buddhist traditions, the electrifying pulse of a modern metropolis, or the nostalgic charm of old Shanghai, this destination delivers it all. So when you visit Shanghai, make sure to explore Jing'an Temple—it promises to leave you with unforgettable travel memories.

Source：Shanghai University