Your UK Guide to Shanghai's Ancient Longhua Temple

Shanghai, a city celebrated for its futuristic skyline and bustling urban energy, also harbours serene pockets of ancient history and profound spirituality. Among these, Longhua Temple stands as a testament to centuries of Buddhist heritage, offering a tranquil escape and a deep dive into China’s rich cultural tapestry. As the oldest and largest temple in the Shanghai region, it's a must-visit for anyone seeking a blend of historical enlightenment and spiritual calm. This guide provides a comprehensive overview for UK visitors, detailing everything from how to get there to what to expect during your exploration of this magnificent site.

Longhua Temple is not just a collection of ancient buildings; it is a living, breathing centre of faith and tradition, steeped in legend and historical significance. Whether you are drawn by its architectural grandeur, the promise of delicious vegetarian meals, or the vibrant atmosphere of its annual festivals, Longhua Temple offers a uniquely enriching experience that beautifully contrasts with the modern pulse of Shanghai.

Navigating to Longhua Temple: Your Journey to Tranquillity

For UK visitors planning their trip, understanding the best routes to Longhua Temple is key to a smooth and enjoyable experience. The temple is conveniently located in the southwestern part of Shanghai, specifically at No. 2853, Longhua Road, Xuhui District. It sits near the Shanghai Film Museum, making it easily identifiable and accessible from various points in the city.

There are two primary methods of public transport to reach this ancient sanctuary, each offering its own advantages:

By Bus: Direct Access to Longhua Lu Huaronglu

For those who prefer surface transport and a more direct route to the temple's vicinity, the bus network is an excellent choice. Several bus lines service the area, dropping you off incredibly close to the temple's entrance. The key bus stop to look out for is Longhua Lu Huaronglu (龙华路华荣路). This stop is particularly convenient as it positions you just a short walk from the temple's ticket office.

To reach Longhua Temple by bus, you can take any of the following lines: 41, 44, 166, 167, 714, 733, 734, 864, or 933. Once you alight at the Longhua Lu Huaronglu stop, simply walk approximately 50 meters to the south, and you will find yourself at the temple's ticket office, ready to begin your exploration. This option is ideal for those who might be staying in areas well-connected by these bus routes or who enjoy observing the city life during their commute.

By Subway: A Seamless Underground Journey

The Shanghai Metro system offers a fast, efficient, and often less congested way to travel across the city. For Longhua Temple, the subway provides a remarkably straightforward route.

You will need to take either Subway Line 11 or Line 12. Both lines have a dedicated stop called Longhua Station (龙华站). Once you arrive at Longhua Station, navigate your way to Exit 3. Upon exiting, you will find the temple conveniently located directly across the road. This method is often recommended for its simplicity and speed, especially for those unfamiliar with Shanghai's extensive bus network.

Regardless of your chosen mode of transport, reaching Longhua Temple is a straightforward process, allowing you to quickly transition from the urban bustle to the peaceful serenity within its ancient walls.

A Journey Through Time: The Rich History of Longhua Temple

Longhua Temple holds a profound place in Shanghai's historical and spiritual landscape. Its origins are shrouded in legend, with conflicting accounts adding to its mystique. While some legends suggest its construction over 1700 years ago by Sun Quan, a warlord during the Three Kingdoms period, for his mother, documented history offers a more precise, albeit still ancient, timeline.

The establishment of Longhua Temple is formally traced to the second year of the Taiping Xingguo era in the Northern Song Dynasty (977 AD). Its evocative name originates from the Buddhist tale of Maitreya Bodhisattva achieving enlightenment under a Longhua tree, imbuing the temple with deep spiritual symbolism.

However, the temple's journey through history has been far from uninterrupted. During the Tang Dynasty, it suffered destruction due to warfare. It was subsequently reconstructed in 977 AD by Qian Hongchu, the King of Wuyue, who then renamed it “Kongxiang Temple.” Yet, the tumultuous transitional period between the Song and Yuan Dynasties saw the temple face destruction once again. Its resilience is evident in its repeated rebirths, with a significant reconstruction occurring during the Yongle era of the Ming Dynasty, at which point it adopted its enduring name, “Longhua Temple.”

Throughout the subsequent centuries, Longhua Temple underwent multiple cycles of destruction and reconstruction, each phase adding layers to its complex narrative. The present structure, which visitors admire today, largely dates back to the comprehensive reconstruction efforts during the Guangxu era of the Qing Dynasty. Remarkably, this reconstruction meticulously followed the architectural design of the Song Dynasty’s original seven-hall complex, preserving its ancient aesthetic.

In more recent times, the temple has undergone significant preservation efforts, with comprehensive renovations taking place in 1957 and 1979. These efforts ensure that the temple’s precious artifacts, including ancient scriptures, golden seals, and Buddha statues dating from the Tang, Five Dynasties, Ming, and Qing periods, are safeguarded for future generations to appreciate. Longhua Temple stands not just as a place of worship, but as a living museum, chronicling the ebb and flow of Chinese history and the enduring spirit of Buddhism.

Architectural Marvels and Spiritual Icons: Highlights of Longhua Temple

Longhua Temple is a treasure trove of architectural brilliance and spiritual artistry, offering visitors a profound insight into traditional Chinese Buddhist design and iconography. Its layout and key structures are meticulously crafted, each serving a specific purpose within the temple's spiritual narrative.

The Enduring Longhua Pagoda

Dominating the temple's skyline is the iconic Longhua Pagoda, a majestic structure built in the second year of the Taiping Xingguo era (977 AD) during the Song Dynasty. This seven-story, octagonal wooden pagoda stands proudly at approximately 40 meters tall, embodying the elegance and structural ingenuity of Song Dynasty architecture.

The pagoda's interior features a brick core with square-shaped chambers, while its exterior is exquisitely adorned with wooden corridors, showcasing intricate craftsmanship. A unique design element is its eight-sided structure with a central four-sided chamber, involving a precise rotation of forty-five degrees per level. This ingenious design ensures a balanced distribution of weight and wall surface positions, contributing to its remarkable stability over centuries.

However, due to the soft soil conditions prevalent in Shanghai, the Longhua Pagoda has experienced a slight tilt over its long history. For crucial preservation purposes, access to the pagoda’s interior is restricted. Visitors are encouraged to appreciate its exterior beauty and architectural grandeur from the ground, capturing its timeless presence through photography, but ascending the structure is not permitted.

The Sacred Mahavira Hall

The Mahavira Hall is arguably the spiritual heart of Longhua Temple, a grand space dedicated to profound Buddhist teachings and veneration. At its centre stands a magnificent statue of Vairocana Buddha, adorned with a Pi Lu hat and making the distinctive Pi Lu seal, symbolising the cosmic body of the Buddha.

Flanking the central Buddha are the revered Manjushri Bodhisattva on the left, representing wisdom, and Samantabhadra Bodhisattva on the right, embodying universal good. Surrounding these central figures, on either side of the hall, are twenty heavenly deities and eighteen Arhats. These figures, each with their unique expressions and postures, add depth and narrative to the hall, representing various aspects of Buddhist cosmology and protection.

Behind this impressive array, visitors will find a touching tableau depicting fifty-three child monks paying homage to Avalokitesvara, the Bodhisattva of Compassion. This scene vividly portrays a narrative from 2,500 years ago, when Buddha preached at the Lingjiu Palace. The entire tableau symbolises Buddha preaching, assisted by Manjushri and Samantabhadra, protected by the twenty heavenly deities, propagated by the eighteen Arhats, guided by Avalokitesvara, and eagerly sought after by the child monks.

The twenty heavenly deities, for instance, were originally figures from the Brahman religion who later embraced Buddhism, performing vital roles such as shielding Buddha from the elements during meditation or even retrieving his relics after his parinirvana, highlighting the adaptive and inclusive nature of Buddhist teachings.

The Architectural Layout: Jia Lan Seven-Hall System

Longhua Temple adheres to the distinct architectural style of the Song Dynasty’s “Jia Lan Seven-Hall System.” This traditional design principle is evident in the temple’s central axis, which runs from south to north and comprises six consecutively arranged halls, each leading to the next in a spiritual progression:

1. Maitreya Hall: The first hall along the central axis, housing an image of the compassionate Maitreya, often depicted as the future Buddha, welcoming visitors with a sense of benevolence.
2. Heavenly King Hall: The second hall, featuring four imposing 4-meter-tall Heavenly Kings positioned on each side, serving as guardians of the Buddhist dharma. At its centre, a Maitreya image adorned with a heavenly crown continues the theme of welcoming and protection.
3. Mahavira Hall: The third and perhaps most significant hall, as detailed above, containing the central image of Vairocana Buddha and surrounded by a host of other revered deities and figures.
4. Three Saints Hall: The fourth hall, likely dedicated to a trinity of Buddhas or Bodhisattvas, offering another space for contemplation and worship.
5. Abbot’s Room (enclosed in a courtyard): The fifth section, a more private area, typically serving as the residence or office for the temple's abbot, symbolising the administrative and spiritual leadership.
6. Scripture Hall: The sixth and final hall on the central axis, housing sacred Buddhist scriptures and texts, serving as a repository of wisdom and knowledge.

This meticulously planned architectural arrangement reflects the hierarchical and axial design principles characteristic of traditional Chinese Buddhist temples, guiding visitors through a spiritual journey from the outer world to the inner sanctum of Buddhist wisdom.

Festivals and Cultural Immersion: Longhua Temple's Vibrant Spirit

Beyond its ancient structures and serene halls, Longhua Temple pulsates with a vibrant cultural life, hosting significant annual events that draw crowds from both local communities and international visitors. These festivals offer a unique opportunity to experience traditional Chinese customs and Buddhist practices firsthand, adding another layer of richness to your visit.

New Year’s Eve Bell-Ringing Ceremony

Since 1991, Longhua Temple has been the esteemed host of a special event on December 31st: the “New Year’s Eve Bell-Ringing Ceremony.” This highly anticipated occasion attracts numerous visitors from both China and abroad, eager to participate in a centuries-old tradition. The ceremony involves striking the temple’s ancient bell, a symbolic act believed to usher in good luck for the coming year. Attendees often offer incense and pray for a peaceful and prosperous year ahead. The event has gained national recognition, being acknowledged by the National Tourism Administration as one of the country’s premier tourism projects. Imagine the resonant sound of the bell echoing through the night, a symbolic act of ushering in good fortune and a peaceful year, creating an unforgettable atmosphere of hope and renewal.

Longhua Temple Fair

Held annually in March and April, the Longhua Temple Fair is a lively and colourful celebration deeply rooted in local tradition and folklore. According to Shanghai tradition, “March 3rd at Longhua, watch the peach blossoms” refers to a significant day dedicated to the Maitreya Buddha in his incarnation as the cheerful Budai monk. To commemorate this auspicious occasion, the temple organises a grand event during the spring, coinciding with the beautiful peach blossom season.

The fair is a spectacle of traditional Chinese culture, featuring vibrant activities such as dynamic dragon and lion dances, which mesmerise with their acrobatic movements and symbolic gestures. Visitors can also explore displays of traditional Shanghai street crafts, witnessing artisans at work and perhaps finding unique souvenirs. A major draw is the array of local delicacies available, offering a culinary journey through Shanghai’s rich food scene. The fair attracts a large number of worshippers and local vendors, creating a bustling, joyous atmosphere that provides a rich cultural experience for both residents and visitors, embodying the temple's role as a community hub.

Embracing the Spiritual: A Buddhism Experience at Longhua Temple

Visiting Longhua Temple in Shanghai extends beyond mere sightseeing; it offers a profound opportunity to experience Buddhism firsthand. The temple provides various avenues for visitors to engage with Buddhist practices and deepen their understanding of this ancient philosophy. While direct participation in deep meditation sessions might be reserved for practitioners, visitors can often find quiet corners for personal reflection or observe monks during their daily chanting rituals, gaining a rare glimpse into monastic life.

The temple also offers educational programs where visitors can learn about the history, philosophy, and core teachings of Buddhism. These programmes, often presented through informative displays or guided tours (where available), shed light on the principles that have guided millions for millennia. Visitors can observe monks performing their daily rituals, such as offering incense at various altars or making offerings to the Buddha, providing a respectful insight into their devotion.

Additionally, the temple houses a library where visitors can read Buddhist scriptures and other literature related to the religion. This quiet space allows for deeper study and contemplation, offering a valuable resource for those interested in exploring Buddhist thought in more detail. The overall atmosphere of Longhua Temple encourages introspection and a sense of calm, making it an ideal place to learn about and connect with the spiritual side of Chinese culture.

Capturing the Moment: Photography Spots and Tips

Longhua Temple and its surroundings offer a wealth of picturesque locations perfect for capturing stunning photographs, blending ancient serenity with modern urban charm. Here are some of the best spots and tips to help you get that perfect shot:

Tower Reflection Space

Description: The Tower Reflection Space is a stunning, somewhat secretive spot located beneath the ancient Longhua Pagoda. This area is thoughtfully designed with a traditional Chinese aesthetic and features four thematic zones: “Returning Clouds,” “Listening to Pines,” “Welcoming the Moon,” and “Tower Reflection.” It provides a serene and elegant atmosphere, ideal for contemplative photography.

Best Spot: For truly captivating photos, head to the “Tower Reflection – Water Curtain” zone. This area is specifically designed to allow you to capture the pagoda’s reflection through a water curtain. On clear, windless days, the water acts as a perfect mirror, creating an especially vivid and sharp reflection of the pagoda. The calm water enhances the symmetry and grandeur of the structure.

Longhua Mall (Longhua Hui)

Description: Just across the street from Longhua Temple, the newly established Longhua Mall offers a modern, open street-style shopping experience. It presents a fascinating contrast, harmonising the ancient Longhua Pagoda with contemporary architecture, showcasing a compelling blend of “old” and “new” Shanghai.

Best Spot: The mall’s second floor boasts two parallel corridors that directly face the pagoda. This vantage point is excellent for using a telephoto lens, which can help compress the perspective and capture the pagoda in impressive detail, making it appear closer and more imposing against the urban backdrop. Additionally, the YMO BAZAAR store within the mall has a scenic window with distinctive window decorations, making it a perfect spot for artistic photos with the pagoda framed in the background, combining retail aesthetics with historical views.

Longhua Plaza

Description: Longhua Plaza, particularly enchanting in the evening, is adorned with colourful lights and festive decorations. The large water pool situated in front of the temple reflects these lights, creating a dazzling visual effect that resembles a giant butterfly, adding a magical touch to the surroundings.

Best Spot: To capture the plaza at its most beautiful, plan your visit around 5:00 PM. This timing is ideal because the lights will have just come on, but the sky will still be transitioning to darkness, allowing you to capture the beautiful ‘blue hour’. This natural light enhances the reflections in the water and makes the decorative lighting truly pop, creating a vibrant and atmospheric photograph.

Savouring Shanghai: Popular Snacks Around Longhua Temple

After exploring the temple's profound spiritual offerings, the vibrant local food scene surrounding Longhua Temple provides a delightful contrast and a chance to savour authentic Shanghai flavours. The area is dotted with eateries offering a variety of popular snacks and dishes that are beloved by locals. Here’s a summary of some highly recommended spots:

These establishments provide a genuine taste of local life and culinary traditions, perfect for refuelling after your temple visit.

Practical Advice for Your Longhua Temple Visit

To ensure a smooth and respectful visit to Longhua Temple, here are some useful tips summarised from visitor experiences:

• Enjoy Vegetarian Meals: It’s highly recommended to try the vegetarian noodles available near the temple’s exit. Priced at around 15 yuan per bowl, they offer a simple yet authentic taste of monastic cuisine. Additionally, side dishes are available for 10 yuan each. After finishing your meal, it’s customary and appreciated to clean up after yourself by returning the utensils to the designated area near the entrance. The temple also offers special traditional snacks that make excellent souvenirs for family and friends. If you don’t find what you’re looking for at the main dining area, there’s another purchasing point near the main gate. It’s more than just a meal; it’s an immersive experience, a simple yet profound way to connect with the temple’s spiritual ethos.
• Beware of Fortune Tellers: As with many popular tourist and religious sites, you may encounter individuals, typically older women, outside the temple entrance who offer fortune-telling services. It’s advisable to politely decline and avoid engaging with them to prevent any potential misunderstandings or unwanted solicitations. A firm but courteous 'no, thank you' is usually sufficient.
• Entrance Options: There are two main ways to enter Longhua Temple:
  • Main Gate Entry: You can enter through the main gate. Here, you will typically scan a QR code on your phone to purchase a 10 yuan entrance ticket. This ticket often includes a free bundle of incense, allowing you to participate in the traditional offering.
  • Parking Lot Access: Alternatively, if you’re entering from the parking lot side, you might be able to access the temple directly to enjoy the vegetarian noodles without needing to purchase a separate entrance ticket initially. This can be a useful option if your primary interest is the culinary experience.
• Mind the Cats: Longhua Temple is known to be home to several resident cats. While they can be quite endearing to observe as they roam the temple grounds, it’s wise to exercise caution as some cats may be aggressive if approached. It’s best to keep a respectful distance and avoid disturbing them, allowing them to go about their business undisturbed.

Respectful Attire: Dress Code for Longhua Temple

When visiting a sacred site like Longhua Temple, adhering to a respectful dress code is not merely a formality but a gesture of honour towards the sacred space and its traditions. Dressing appropriately ensures a comfortable and culturally sensitive experience for both you and the local worshippers.

• Cover Your Shoulders and Knees: It is strongly recommended that both men and women ensure their shoulders and knees are covered. This means avoiding shorts, tank tops, and sleeveless tops. Similarly, visitors should refrain from wearing short skirts or dresses that do not extend to cover the knees. Modesty is key in a religious setting.
• Avoid Tight-Fitting or Revealing Clothing: Clothing that is excessively tight or revealing can be considered disrespectful within a religious context. Opt for loose-fitting, comfortable clothing that covers your body appropriately. This not only shows respect but also allows for greater ease of movement as you explore the temple grounds.
• Cover Your Tattoos: While tattoos are becoming more common globally, in some parts of China, they can still be associated with criminal gangs or viewed with certain reservations. In a temple setting, visible tattoos can be seen as disrespectful. Visitors are advised to cover up any visible tattoos when entering Longhua Temple as a sign of respect for the traditional cultural norms.
• Remove Hats and Sunglasses: Upon entering the main halls of the temple, it is customary and a sign of respect to remove your hats and sunglasses. This gesture is not only about showing reverence but also allows for clear vision when admiring the intricate artwork, statues, and altars within the sacred spaces.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure your visit to Longhua Temple is both enriching and respectful, allowing you to fully appreciate its spiritual and historical significance.

Frequently Asked Questions About Longhua Temple

Here are some common questions visitors might have about Longhua Temple, with answers based on the provided information:

What are the opening hours of Longhua Temple?

Longhua Temple is generally open from 7:10 AM to 4:30 PM throughout the year. However, on the 1st and 15th of January of the lunar year, the opening hours are extended, with the temple opening earlier from 5:00 AM to 4:30 PM to accommodate special festivities and increased visitors.

Is there an entrance fee for Longhua Temple?

Yes, there is an entrance fee to Longhua Temple. The ticket price is 10 RMB. This ticket can typically be purchased by scanning a QR code on your phone at the main gate, and it often includes a free bundle of incense for offerings.

Can I get vegetarian food at Longhua Temple?

Absolutely. Longhua Temple is well-known for its delicious paid vegetarian meals. Visitors often queue for a bowl of vegetarian noodles, especially after offering incense. These noodles are usually around 15 yuan per bowl, with side dishes available for 10 yuan each. There are also traditional snacks available for purchase.

What is the significance of the Longhua Temple Fair?

The Longhua Temple Fair, held annually in March and April, commemorates the day Maitreya Buddha incarnated as the Budai monk, celebrated on the third day of the third lunar month. It's a vibrant cultural event featuring dragon and lion dances, traditional craft displays, and local delicacies, drawing large crowds and vendors during the peach blossom season.

Can I go inside the Longhua Pagoda?

No, due to preservation purposes and the pagoda's slight tilt over the years, access to the interior of Longhua Pagoda is restricted. Visitors can admire its exterior and architectural style but are not permitted to ascend the structure.

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