Jingan Temple (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Jingan Temple?
What makes it 67% Kids-Friendly: Kids enjoy huge statues, festival stalls and child-friendly tours, but guardians must watch them around incense burners and staircases, and there are no play areas or child toilets inside.
Positives:
- Child-friendly tours: Free guided tours include simple, engaging explanations for ages 3–12.
- Safe viewing areas: Protected burners and clear walkways let kids participate safely.
- Easy metro access: Jing’an Temple station (Lines 2, 7, 14) is right next door.
Challenges:
- Limited stroller access: Many steps and narrow corridors; ask staff about stroller storage.
- Incense smoke: Burning areas can get smoky; keep children at a safe distance.
- No on-site nursery: No baby-changing or nursing rooms inside; use metro station facilities.
What is Jingan Temple?
- A historic Buddhist temple complex tracing its origins to 247 CE at the heart of Shanghai’s Jing’an district
- A collection of three main halls anchored by a massive seated jade Buddha imported from Myanmar
- An architectural fusion of traditional Chinese and Tibetan styles, restored to its modern form in 1983
What is so special about Jingan Temple for with kids?
- Free, child-focused guided tours at 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM
- Hands-on incense ritual in protected burners kids love
- Giant jade Buddha and silver statues that awe all ages
- Seasonal temple fair with acrobatics, toys, and local snacks
- Direct metro access and nearby baby-care facilities
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows time for guided tours, incense rituals, and exploration at a relaxed pace with children.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Jingan Temple
Guided Family Tour:
Join the free English-language tours at 10:00 AM or 2:00 PM.
Tip: Arrive 10 minutes early to secure spots and headphones.
Mahavira Hall Statues:
See the 3.87 m jade Buddha and 15-ton silver Tathagata statue.
Tip: Use the center aisle for unobstructed photos with the family.
Light Incense Ritual:
Let each child light one incense stick at the safe, enclosed burner.
Tip: Teach kids the proper way to bow and place sticks gently.
Temple Fair (Spring Only):
Experience acrobatics, toy stalls, and local snacks around Buddha’s Birthday.
Tip: Look for sugar-painting demos at the food stalls.
Roof Courtyard View:
Step onto the upper courtyard for a golden-roof city skyline view.
Tip: Visit early morning for softer light and fewer visitors.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Jingan Temple
- Skip ticket lines: Buy tickets online via the official app for faster entry.
- Early visit: Arrive at opening time to explore halls with fewer crowds.
- Use metro baby room: Stop at Jing’an Temple station mother-and-baby room before visiting.
Reviews of Jingan Temple
Lee Antony
Centuries old Jing’an Temple stood tall among its many modern surrounding buildings and other structures. There were long queues of people, both locals and tourists visiting this historical site 🛕
David C Lee
It's truly a spectacular piece of architecture—the sheer scale of the gold roof against the blue sky is breathtaking and incredibly photogenic. What amazed me was the sense of contrast. You step off the incredibly busy Nanjing West Road, and suddenly, you're in this pocket of peace and quiet. The incense, the chanting, and the stunning halls create a wonderfully calm and spiritual atmosphere righ...
Andrea Pasin
Jing'an Temple is an amazing and vibrant temple right in the heart of Shanghai's modern business district. It's a striking contrast of ancient gold architecture against a backdrop of skyscrapers, making for some truly awesome photos. While it's a bustling and active temple, which is cool to see, the crowds can sometimes detract from the peaceful, spiritual vibe. Still, it's a fantastic historical ...
黄Jack
Jing'an Temple has a quiet, spiritual and ancient look in the central of Shanghai, the architecture brings me a slow down in the middle of the bustling city. The temple consists of 3 towers with attractive golden roof tiles, very clean and well maintained facility. Many majestic Buddha statues with meticulous and sophisticated sculptures. In the middle of the temple yard, there is a tall tower whe...
Arti Soejitno
Jing’an Temple is a Buddhist temple located at one big beautiful compound just in between modern building and luxurious shopping center in Shanghai. It was first built in 247 AD. Very well maintained, beautifully decorated and served as monastery too. The famous icon of four faces Lions in gold pillar stand tall stunningly.
When is the best time to visit Jingan Temple (Shanghai, China)?
Plan a spring visit (April–May) for the annual temple fair. In summer, arrive early or late to avoid heat. Winters are cooler—carry light jackets for outdoor areas.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Adult & child tickets (3 above 1.3 m) | CNY 90 |
| Incense sticks (4 at CNY 5 each) | CNY 20 |
| Total Estimated | CNY 110 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of Jingan Temple
Address: 1686 Nan Jing Xi Lu, 久光 Jing An Qu, Shang Hai Shi, China, 200040
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About Jingan Temple
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Phone Number
+86 21 6256 636610 BEST nearby Activities
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