Zhenru Temple (真如寺), located in the northwest corner of Shanghai in Zhenru Town, covers an area of nearly 20 acres and is an ancient temple dating back to the Yuan Dynasty, originally named “Wanshou Temple.” The temple, with its white walls and black tiles, exudes an ancient charm, and the fragrance of incense has been flourishing here for centuries. In comparison to other famous Shanghai temples like Longhua Temple, Zhenru Temple appears more tranquil, with a solemn Buddhist atmosphere that appeals to those seeking a peaceful and traditional place for prayer.
Although not large in size, Zhenru Temple features a well-organized layout. The prominent structure is a nine-story pagoda, modeled after the Song and Yuan dynasties, standing over 50 meters tall. Other notable buildings include archways, the main gate, incense burners, a bell and drum tower, Buddha halls, Bodhisattva halls, scripture halls, a library, and monk’s quarters. Stepping into the main hall, one can touch the beams and pillars dating back to the Yuan Dynasty, creating a sense of traveling back in time to a thousand years ago.
Table of Contents
- Basic Information
- Location and Transportation
- Highlights of Zhenru Temple
- Vlog about Zhenru Temple
- Useful Tips Summarized from Reviews
- Other Temples in Shanghai
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | 1 – 2 hours |
| Opening Hours | 6.00 -16.00; Last admission: 16.00 |
| Ticket Price | 10 RMB |
Location and Transportation
Zhenru Temple is situated in a peaceful and quiet area of the city, surrounded by trees and greenery. And its address is No. 399, Lanxi Road, Putuo District, Shanghai. To get there, you have the following options:
Bus: Take bus 724, get off at Tongchuanlu LanxiLu (铜川路兰溪路), and walk about 200 meters to the west to reach the temple.
Subway: Take subway line 11 or 14, get off at Zhenru Station (真如站), get out from Exit 7, and walk about 300 meters to reach the temple.
Highlights of Zhenru Temple
The Hall of Heavenly Kings
The Hall of Heavenly Kings is a significant building located in the Zhenru Temple. It was built during the Ming Dynasty and has been restored several times over the centuries. The hall’s main entrance is adorned with four massive statues of the Heavenly Kings, each representing different aspects of Buddhism. These statues are considered to be some of the finest examples of Chinese sculpture from the Ming Dynasty. The interior of the hall is decorated with intricate carvings, murals, and Buddhist scriptures.
The Buddha hall
The Buddha Hall is a central and largest hall in the Zhenru Temple in Shanghai, China. It was built during the Yuan Dynasty and has undergone several renovations and restorations over the years. The hall houses a large statue of Shakyamuni Buddha, the founder of Buddhism, made of bronze and gold-plated. The statue stands at about 10 meters tall and is surrounded by smaller statues of his disciples and other Buddhist figures.
The Cultural Relics Museum
The Cultural Relics Museum in Zhenru Temple is a fascinating exhibit of ancient artifacts and cultural treasures. It showcases a vast collection of items that reflect the rich history and cultural heritage of the temple and the surrounding region. Among the exhibits are Buddhist sculptures, paintings, calligraphy, ceramics, and other relics dating back to the Tang Dynasty. Visitors can learn about the history and development of Buddhism in China and explore the significance of these artifacts in the religion and culture of the region.
Vlog about Zhenru Temple
Useful Tips Summarized from Reviews
Historic Interest: Zhenru Temple is an excellent destination for history enthusiasts due to its ancient architecture and cultural significance. However, even if you’re not deeply interested in history, it’s still worth a visit, especially if you’re in the area.
Bird Feeding: One unique feature of the temple is its large dovecote where visitors can feed the pigeons. You can purchase bird food from the vending machine for 10 RMB per bag, adding an enjoyable activity to your visit.
Ancient Ginkgo Tree: Don’t miss the 700-year-old ginkgo tree in front of the temple. Despite being struck by lightning in the past, it miraculously revived in 1992. Many visitors come to make wishes at the tree, adding to its mystique and charm.
Vegetarian Meals: If you’re interested in trying out Buddhist vegetarian cuisine, consider arriving around noon when the temple serves lunch. However, be aware that they may run out quickly, so it’s advisable to arrive early, preferably around 11:00 AM, to secure your meal.
