Longhua Temple in Shanghai

I had the opportunity to visit Longhua Temple, known in Chinese as 龙华寺 (Lónghuá Sì), which is the largest and oldest Buddhist temple in Shanghai. The atmosphere here is distinctly different from the bustling city life. As soon as you step into the temple grounds, it feels like entering a serene and tranquil world, filled with the faint aroma of incense. 🍃 One of the most impressive experiences was paying homage to the Thousand-Armed Guanyin, or Avalokiteshvara Bodhisattva, whose many arms symbolize the act of extending help to alleviate all forms of suffering. 🙏 The intricate craftsmanship of the statue and the peaceful ambiance of the hall made me sit quietly for a long time, truly feeling a sense of inner peace. In addition to the Thousand-Armed Guanyin, the temple also features a main hall, an octagonal pagoda, and various Buddha statues in different postures, showcasing the beauty of Mahayana Buddhist art. The temple holds chanting sessions at scheduled times, and the sound of bells and chants creates a profound spiritual energy that is hard to describe. Tips for visitors: • The entrance fee is affordable, around 10 yuan (latest update). • Conveniently accessible via subway; get off at Longhua or Longhua Temple station. • Visiting in the morning offers a quieter atmosphere with fewer tourists. Longhua Temple is not just a religious site but also a spiritual center for locals. For me, it was a small sanctuary where I could make wishes, find peace, and admire the harmonious blend of art and spirituality in a city that never sleeps like Shanghai. ✨