10 Things to Do in the Jade Buddha Temple (玉佛寺) in Shanghai, China
The Jade Buddha Temple (玉佛寺) in Shanghai, China is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. Located in the western part of the city, the temple is a beautiful and peaceful place to explore. Here are 10 things to do when visiting the Jade Buddha Temple.
1. Admire the Jade Buddha Statues – The Jade Buddha Temple is home to two jade Buddha statues, one reclining and one seated. Both statues were carved from white jade and are believed to be over 100 years old. The statues are kept in the main hall of the temple and are the main attraction.
2. Explore the Temple Grounds – The temple grounds are a peaceful place to explore. There are several courtyards and gardens, as well as a bell tower and a drum tower. Visitors can also explore the temple’s many halls, which are filled with Buddhist sculptures and artwork.
3. Participate in a Buddhist Ceremony – The temple hosts a variety of ceremonies throughout the year, including weddings and funerals. Visitors can participate in these ceremonies to gain a better understanding of Buddhism and Chinese culture.
4. Learn About Buddhism – The temple offers classes on Buddhism, which are open to both locals and tourists. These classes cover a wide range of topics, including Buddhist philosophy, meditation, and the history of Buddhism.
5. Take a Tour – The temple offers guided tours of the grounds and the main hall. These tours provide an in-depth look at the history and culture of the temple, as well as an opportunity to learn more about Buddhism.
6. Visit the Tea House – The temple has a tea house located in the main hall, where visitors can enjoy a cup of tea and relax. The tea house also serves a variety of traditional Chinese snacks.
7. Shop the Souvenir Store – The temple has a souvenir store located in the main hall, where visitors can purchase souvenirs and other items related to Buddhism.
8. Attend a Lecture – The temple often hosts lectures and seminars on Buddhism and Chinese culture. These lectures are open to both locals and tourists.
9. Visit the Library – The temple has a library located in the main hall, which is open to the public. The library contains books on Buddhism, Chinese culture, and other topics.
10. Take a Picture – The temple is a popular spot for photography, with its beautiful architecture and gardens. Visitors can take pictures of the temple grounds and the statues in the main hall.
The Jade Buddha Temple is a beautiful and peaceful place to explore. Whether you’re looking to learn more about Buddhism, participate in a ceremony, or just take some pictures, the temple has something to offer everyone. So be sure to add it to your list of places to visit in Shanghai.