Longhua Temple
Shanghai Shi
Longhua Temple, located in Shanghai, is the city's largest and one of its oldest Buddhist temple complexes, dedicated to the Maitreya Buddha. Originally constructed in 242 AD during the Three Kingdoms period, it has undergone multiple destructions and reconstructions, notably in 977 AD under the Kingdom of Wuyue and later restorations during the Qing dynasty. The temple preserves the architectural style of a Song dynasty Chan Buddhist monastery, featuring a central axis with five main halls including the Maitreya Hall, Four Heavenly Kings Hall, Mahavira Hall, Three Sages Hall, and the Abbot's Hall. The complex's tallest structure is the Longhua Pagoda, standing over 40 meters tall, which retains its core from the Song period. The temple grounds once included extensive gardens famous for peach blossoms, now largely replaced by the Longhua Martyrs Cemetery. The temple also bears historical significance as a site of political executions and internment during the 20th century. Its architectural and artistic features include ancient statues, a Ming dynasty bell, and intricate bas-reliefs depicting Buddhist figures such as Guanyin. Despite damage during the Cultural Revolution, the temple remains a vital cultural and religious landmark, blending spiritual heritage with historical memory.
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Tip: Visitors are advised to visit during spring to enjoy the traditional peach blossom viewing near the temple grounds. Purchasing tickets in advance is recommended during festivals and weekends to avoid long queues. The temple offers discounted admission for students and seniors. Early morning visits provide a peaceful atmosphere for contemplation and photography. Guided tours can enhance understanding of the temple's rich history and architecture.
Interesting facts
- •Longhua Temple is the largest ancient Buddhist temple complex in Shanghai, covering over 20,000 square meters.
- •The Longhua Pagoda, part of the temple complex, stands 40.4 meters tall and is one of the few surviving Song dynasty pagodas.
- •The temple's bell was cast in 1586 during the Ming dynasty Wanli era and is still preserved today.
- •The temple grounds were the site of mass executions during the 1927 Kuomintang purge of suspected communists.
- •During the Second Sino-Japanese War, the area housed the largest civilian internment camp operated by the Japanese in Shanghai.
History
Longhua Temple was first built in 242 AD during the Three Kingdoms period to house sacred Buddhist relics.
It was destroyed towards the end of the Tang dynasty and rebuilt in 977 AD during the Northern Song dynasty under the Kingdom of Wuyue.
The temple was renamed Kongxiang Temple in 1064 but reverted to Longhua Temple during the Ming dynasty.
Most current buildings date from Qing dynasty restorations in the late 19th century, with a major restoration in 1954.
Throughout the 20th century, the temple grounds were used for political executions and internment during wartime, adding layers to its historical significance.
Place Guide
Maitreya HallSong dynasty (960–1279)
This hall houses statues of the Maitreya Buddha and his manifestation as Budai, the 'Cloth Bag Monk', symbolizing happiness and abundance.
Four Heavenly Kings HallSong dynasty style
This hall contains statues of the Four Heavenly Kings, guardians who protect the Buddhist faith and temple grounds.
Mahavira HallReconstructed Qing dynasty (19th century)
The main hall of the temple, featuring statues of the historical Buddha Shakyamuni and his two principal disciples. It also includes a bas-relief of Guanyin and the twenty Guardians of Buddhist Law.
Three Sages HallSong dynasty style
Dedicated to Amitabha Buddha and the Bodhisattvas Avalokiteśvara (male form) and Mahāsthāmaprāpta, this hall reflects Pure Land Buddhist influences.
Abbot's HallQing dynasty restoration
Used for lectures and formal meetings, this hall is typically restricted to visitors and serves as the administrative center of the monastery.
Longhua PagodaCore from Song dynasty (10th–13th century)
A seven-story octagonal pagoda originally built during the Three Kingdoms period and reconstructed in the Song dynasty, it is the tallest structure in the complex and a symbol of the temple.
Contact
Phone: 021 6456 6085