Special feature on visiting the three major temples in Shanghai

Hello, this is Lamb.

Today, I would like to introduce the second part of the series on introducing the three major temples in Shanghai, Jing’an Temple.

In addition, the first article, the Jade Buddha Temple, is here

It is quite different from the previous Jade Buddha Temple, located in the downtown area, and is a shiny temple with gold.

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The nearest station is Jing’an Temple Station on Metro Line 2, right in the middle of Shanghai. This is a very fashionable area, an area lined with high-end department stores, boutiques, fashionable cafes, and high-rise buildings, and it is like “Omotesando” in Japan.

In such an area, just a short walk from the station (right behind Hisamitsu Department Store), a flashy temple suddenly appeared, and Lamb was very surprised when he first came to Shanghai (laughs).

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When I went inside, I thought, well, it has a Chinese feel, but it also has a Southeast Asian feel.

Anyway, it is a very interesting temple with a decoration like a killer whale on the roof, a decoration of a lion, flashy (laughs),
and a little exotic.

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On the tall tower in the middle of the precincts (see the photo below), worshippers are throwing coins, and it seems that there is a jinx that if you are lucky enough to enter the hole in this tower, you will be lucky.

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The high admission fee is a scratch on the ball (it seems to vary slightly depending on the season, but when it was a lamb, it cost 50 yuan per adult).
However, since it is located in the downtown area, it is possible to visit the city of Jianji Temple after stopping by the temple, so please enjoy it as well!

See you 🥰 soon.

Shanghai Travel Guide

Shanghai, often nicknamed the “Pearl of the Orient” or the “Magic City,” is one of the most dynamic metropolises in the world. This bustling port city blends Eastern and Western influences, historic architecture and futuristic skylines, cosmopolitan energy and quiet cultural corners. Whether you’re here for a short layover or a week-long holiday, Shanghai offers countless experiences worth exploring.

Below is a detailed guide to the city’s must-visit attractions, from its colonial-era waterfront to cutting-edge entertainment parks.

1. The Bund (Waitan) – A Living Museum of Architecture

The Bund is Shanghai’s most iconic waterfront promenade, stretching along the western bank of the Huangpu River. This one-mile strip is lined with 19th and early 20th-century buildings in Gothic, Baroque, Neoclassical, and Art Deco styles — remnants of the city’s colonial past.

Why visit:

  • Offers one of the best panoramic views of Pudong’s futuristic skyline, especially after sunset when the skyscrapers light up.
  • Great for photography enthusiasts who want both historical and modern elements in one frame.

Traveler tip: Visit in the late afternoon so you can watch the sun dip behind the skyline, then stay for the dazzling night views.

2. Oriental Pearl TV Tower – Sky-High Views & History Exhibits

Standing 468 meters tall, the Oriental Pearl Tower is one of Shanghai’s most recognized landmarks. Inside, you’ll find observation decks, a revolving restaurant, and the Shanghai History Museum.

Highlights:

  • The 259-meter glass-floored observation deck for a thrilling view straight down.
  • 360-degree views of both sides of the Huangpu River.
  • The lower floors’ museum that showcases Shanghai’s transformation from a small fishing village to a global city.

Best time to visit: Evening, for stunning nightscapes.

3. Yuyuan Garden & City God Temple Bazaar – Old Shanghai Charm

Yuyuan Garden is a masterpiece of Ming Dynasty landscaping. Expect classical pavilions, rockeries, koi-filled ponds, and winding corridors. Right next door is the City God Temple Bazaar, a lively shopping and food street.

Don’t miss:

  • South-facing Great Rockery for elevated garden views.
  • Traditional snacks like Nanxiang xiaolongbao (soup dumplings), shengjianbao (pan-fried buns), and sweet osmanthus cakes.

Tip: Weekdays are less crowded; weekends can be packed with tourists.

4. Tianzifang – Creative Alleyways in the Former French Concession

Tianzifang is a labyrinth of narrow lanes within the old Shikumen (stone-gate) buildings. It’s now home to art studios, boutique shops, cafes, and tiny bars — perfect for slow exploration.

What makes it special:

  • Street art murals mixed with vintage architecture.
  • Independent designer boutiques and quirky souvenir shops.
  • Cozy coffee houses where you can watch life unfold in the alleyways.

Best for: Afternoon strolls and people-watching.

5. Nanjing Road – Shanghai’s Shopping Artery

Nanjing Road is one of the world’s busiest shopping streets, stretching from People’s Square to the Bund. You’ll find everything from luxury brands and department stores to snack stalls.

Experience:

  • Ride the small sightseeing train along the pedestrian stretch.
  • Try street snacks like candied hawthorn skewers.
  • Explore side streets for hidden cafes and local shops.

6. Shanghai Disney Resort – Fantasy Meets Cutting-Edge Design

China’s first Disney resort combines classic fairy tales with Chinese cultural elements. The Enchanted Storybook Castle is the largest of all Disney castles worldwide.

Must-try rides:

  • TRON Lightcycle Power Run (exclusive to Shanghai).
  • Pirates of the Caribbean: Battle for the Sunken Treasure (state-of-the-art animatronics and visuals).
  • Evening fireworks over the castle.

Insider tip: Download the official app to check real-time wait times and book FastPass tickets.

7. Extra Cultural Stops for In-Depth Travelers

  • Shanghai Museum – Renowned for ancient Chinese bronze, ceramics, and calligraphy.
  • Longhua Temple – The city’s oldest Buddhist temple, dating back over 1,700 years.
  • Former French Concession Streets – Tree-lined boulevards with colonial villas, perfect for cycling.

Travel Tips for Shanghai

  • Best time to visit: Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) offer mild temperatures and clear skies.
  • Getting around: The metro system is fast, clean, and covers almost every major attraction.
  • Language: English is spoken in major tourist areas, but learning a few Mandarin phrases goes a long way.
  • Payment: Mobile payments (Alipay, WeChat Pay) are widely used; cash is less common.

Final Thoughts
Shanghai is a city of contrasts: ancient gardens stand beside glass skyscrapers, and street food stalls operate in the shadows of luxury malls. Its history is layered, its culture vibrant, and its pace exhilarating. Whether you’re seeking art, architecture, food, or sheer urban energy, Shanghai will leave you with stories to tell long after your trip.

Top Attractions in Beijing

Beijing, the sprawling capital of China, is a city where ancient history meets modern vitality. Known for its imperial palaces, grand temples, bustling markets, and contemporary architecture, Beijing offers travelers an unforgettable glimpse into China’s rich cultural heritage and fast-paced future. Whether you are fascinated by ancient dynasties or intrigued by modern urban life, Beijing has something for everyone.

In this detailed guide, we will explore the top attractions in Beijing, including iconic landmarks, hidden gems, and practical travel tips to help you plan your trip.

1. Introduction to Beijing

As the political, cultural, and educational center of China, Beijing is home to over 21 million people and a history spanning more than 3,000 years. The city served as the capital for several dynasties, including the Yuan, Ming, and Qing, which shaped its majestic palaces and ancient city walls.

Today, Beijing stands as a vibrant metropolis, blending centuries-old traditions with cutting-edge development. From the imperial grandeur of the Forbidden City to the modern marvel of the Bird’s Nest Stadium, Beijing tells the story of China’s evolution.

2. The Forbidden City: The Heart of Imperial Power

History and Significance

The Forbidden City, also known as the Palace Museum, is Beijing’s most famous historical site. Built between 1406 and 1420 during the Ming dynasty, it served as the imperial palace and political center for 24 emperors until the early 20th century.

Spanning approximately 180 acres, the Forbidden City is the world’s largest ancient wooden structure complex. Its walls, gates, and halls represent traditional Chinese palatial architecture and are filled with priceless artifacts.

What to See

  • Hall of Supreme Harmony: The largest and most important building, used for ceremonies.
  • Palace of Heavenly Purity: Emperor’s residence.
  • Imperial Garden: A serene garden with ancient trees and rock formations.
  • Treasure Gallery: Exhibits priceless imperial treasures, ceramics, and paintings.

Tips for Visitors

  • Arrive early to avoid crowds.
  • Consider hiring a guide or renting an audio guide for historical context.
  • Wear comfortable shoes; the complex is vast.
  • Purchase tickets online in advance, especially during peak seasons.

3. Tiananmen Square: The Symbolic Center of Modern China

Tiananmen Square is one of the largest public squares in the world and a site of great historical significance. Located just south of the Forbidden City, it is surrounded by important buildings including the Great Hall of the People, the National Museum of China, and the Mausoleum of Mao Zedong.

Visitors often come here to see the daily flag-raising ceremony at dawn or sunset, which is a moving display of national pride.

4. The Great Wall of China: An Enduring Wonder

Overview

No visit to Beijing is complete without experiencing the Great Wall of China. While the wall stretches over 13,000 miles across northern China, the sections near Beijing are the most accessible and popular among tourists.

  • Badaling: The most visited and well-restored section. Suitable for families and those looking for easy access.
  • Mutianyu: Known for beautiful scenery and fewer crowds. It offers cable cars and toboggan rides.
  • Jinshanling and Simatai: For more adventurous travelers, these sections are less restored and offer rugged hiking opportunities.

Tips

  • Visit early in the day to avoid crowds.
  • Wear sturdy hiking shoes.
  • Bring water, snacks, and sun protection.
  • Consider a guided tour for transportation and insights.

5. Summer Palace: A Royal Garden Retreat

The Summer Palace, located in the northwest of Beijing, is a stunning imperial garden and palace complex used as a summer retreat by Qing dynasty emperors.

It features:

  • Kunming Lake: A large man-made lake perfect for boating.
  • Longevity Hill: Offering panoramic views.
  • Marble Boat: An iconic lakeside pavilion.
  • Long Corridor: A decorated covered walkway with thousands of paintings.

The palace combines natural beauty with exquisite architecture and offers a peaceful contrast to the bustling city.

6. Temple of Heaven: Where Emperors Prayed for Good Harvests

The Temple of Heaven is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a masterpiece of religious architecture. Emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties visited here to perform annual ceremonies praying for a good harvest.

The complex includes:

  • Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests: A circular, triple-gabled building made entirely of wood without nails.
  • Imperial Vault of Heaven and Circular Mound Altar: Used for various rituals.

The surrounding park is popular with locals practicing Tai Chi, singing, and dancing.

7. Lama Temple (Yonghe Temple): The Largest Tibetan Buddhist Temple in Beijing

The Lama Temple is a vibrant center of Tibetan Buddhism and one of the most important monasteries outside Tibet.

Highlights include:

  • Elaborate Buddhist statues and murals.
  • The world’s tallest wooden Buddha statue, carved from a single piece of sandalwood.
  • Traditional ceremonies and a bustling temple market.

8. Beijing’s Hutongs: Experience Traditional Alleyway Life

Hutongs are narrow alleys formed by traditional courtyard residences, offering a glimpse into Beijing’s old neighborhood life.

Popular areas to explore hutongs:

  • Nanluoguxiang: Famous for shops, cafés, and bars.
  • Shichahai: A scenic area with lakeside hutongs.
  • Ping’anli and Dashilar: Less touristy, more authentic residential areas.

Visitors can take rickshaw tours or stroll on foot to discover charming architecture and local culture.

9. Modern Attractions: Beijing’s Contemporary Side

798 Art District

Once an old factory complex, the 798 Art District is now a vibrant hub for contemporary art, galleries, cafés, and boutiques. It’s a great place to see avant-garde Chinese art and creative exhibitions.

Olympic Park

Built for the 2008 Summer Olympics, the park features:

  • Bird’s Nest Stadium: Iconic steel structure, now used for sports and concerts.
  • Water Cube: Aquatics center with an eye-catching bubble-like exterior.

Visitors can tour the stadiums and enjoy the spacious park grounds.

10. Food and Dining in Beijing

Beijing cuisine is famous for its rich flavors and traditional dishes. Don’t miss:

  • Peking Duck: The city’s signature dish, best enjoyed at renowned restaurants like Quanjude or Dadong.
  • Jianbing: A popular street breakfast crepe.
  • Zhajiangmian: Noodles with soybean paste sauce.
  • Hot Pot: Especially popular in colder months.

For authentic tastes, explore food streets like Wangfujing Snack Street or Ghost Street (Gui Jie).

11. Practical Travel Tips for Visiting Beijing

  • Best Time to Visit: Spring (April-May) and Autumn (September-October) offer pleasant weather and clear skies.
  • Transportation: Beijing’s subway system is extensive and affordable. Taxis and ride-hailing apps are also widely available.
  • Language: Basic Mandarin phrases help, but many tourist sites have English signs and guides.
  • Currency: Chinese Yuan (CNY or RMB).
  • Cultural Etiquette: Respect local customs, especially at temples and historic sites.
  • Health and Safety: Beijing has good healthcare facilities. Air pollution can be an issue, so check air quality levels and consider masks if sensitive.

12. Conclusion

Beijing is a city that offers a profound journey through China’s past and present. From the grandeur of imperial palaces and the breathtaking Great Wall to the vibrant life in hutongs and contemporary art districts, every corner of Beijing holds a story waiting to be discovered.

Whether you are a history enthusiast, culture lover, foodie, or modern traveler, Beijing will captivate your senses and enrich your understanding of China’s vast heritage.

Prepare your itinerary, pack your curiosity, and embark on an unforgettable adventure in the heart of China’s ancient capital.