Tourism GuideLonghua Temple
Shanghai's oldest and largest Buddhist temple, anchored by a thousand-year-old pagoda.
Key Information
History
More than 1,700 years; pagoda dates to legendarily the Three Kingdoms period
Entry
Free; incense ticket about ¥10 optional
Best Time to Visit
Summer for the lotus flowers
Nearest Metro
Longhua Road station, lines 11 and 12
About Longhua Temple
Longhua Temple has more than 1,700 years of history, with its seven-story Longhua Pagoda traditionally said to date back to the Three Kingdoms period. The complex features classic Song-style halls, ancient cypresses, and a serene lotus pond. The grounds are especially atmospheric during the spring temple fair and when the lotus flowers bloom in summer. Entry is free, though an incense ticket is optional.
Things to Do
- Admire the seven-story Longhua Pagoda beside the temple
- Tour the main halls with their Song-style architecture
- Walk around the lotus pond in the temple grounds
- See the ancient cypress trees and stone relics
- Visit during the spring temple fair if your trip coincides