A close shot of a white jade Buddha

This temple is famous for its white jade Buddhas, including a reclining Buddha that measures just over three feet long and a large seated Buddha weighing 452 pounds. These Buddhas were a gift from Master Huigen and originally came from Myanmar.

While the temple's historical and artistic aspects are sure to attract visitors, it's also a bustling place of worship, especially on holidays like New Year's Eve. While this temple complex is comprised of many halls, pavilions, and courtyards, there are a few that are of particular note. We can help you map out a good itinerary to make the most of your journey to Jade Buddha Temple.

Jade Buddha Temple

The impressive jade statues are located in two places: the Reclining Buddha Hall and the Jade Buddha Tower. The Jade Buddha Tower statue spans nearly two meters high and is carved out of pale green jade. Decorated with precious jewels and gold leaf, this statue is bound to take your breath away. The Jade Buddha Tower also contains hundreds more smaller golden Buddha statues. There is an extra fee of 10 RMB to visit this room.

The Reclining Buddha Hall hosts the second statue, a handsome three-foot reclining Buddha carved from a single piece of jade.

Jade Buddha Temple in Shanghai

You can easily see all of the temple complex within one to two hours, traveling at a leisurely pace. This timeline gives you enough room to linger a little longer in some halls and meditate or relax as needed.

The Jade Buddha Temple is in Shanghai's Putuo District and is very close to other major attractions like the Shanghai Museum in People's Square. You can easily combine it with other attractions in the city. It's also easy to get to by taxi, bus, or subway. If you're traveling by bus, get off at Jiangninglu Anyuanlu and enter through the East Gate. Visitors arriving by metro will use Line 13 and exit at Jiangninglu Station.

Location: Jiangning Road No. 1017, Jade Buddha Temple, Shanghai

Opening hours: Generally 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., although it may open earlier for holidays or religious days.

Entrance Ticket: Free to visit

Exhibits at the Jade Buddha Temple

Although there is no strict dress code at the Jade Buddha Temple, modest clothing is appreciated in this religious and sacred space. Additionally, if you're visiting during the warmer season, you will want to wear comfortable shoes and sunscreen. Visitors are welcome to take pictures of the buildings outside of the temple, but no photography is permitted in the temple itself.

The Jade Buddha Vegetarian Food Canteen is also an excellent restaurant serving traditional Shanghai-style foods. It's a lovely way to finish your experience in the temple complex. Reservations are accepted and suggested if you're visiting during a busier time. There is also a nearby coffee shop and Zen tea stall.

You'll also find several donation boxes around the temple, and you can contribute as you'd like. Animal lovers will also want to visit the Medicine Buddha Hall to catch a glimpse of the friendly temple cats. Unfortunately, this temple attracts fortune tellers, and it's best to firmly but kindly reject their offers to help you see your future.