How about a journey back eight centuries? I will tell you about Shanghai’s Zhenru Temple. It is a place where time seems to slow. The Zhenru Temple stands in the Putuo District. It is a testament to Shanghai’s rich Buddhist heritage.
Originally named Wanshou Temple it was established during the Southern Song Dynasty. In 1320 during the Yuan Dynasty, it was renamed Zhenru Temple. Monk Yong An rebuilt it. Monk Miao Xin secured funds to construct the main hall. This hall is the oldest timberwork building from the Yuan Dynasty in the south Yangtze River Area.
Imagine walking through the temple grounds. They span over 20 mu. That is about 1.3 hectares. The temple’s floorage covers 8500 square meters. The scenery is graceful and elegant. Tourists can explore various antiques. These antiques offer a glimpse into Shanghai’s ancient culture. The Zhenru Temple is a classic example of Buddhist culture in Shanghai.
The Mahavira Hall stands as an important historical monument. The state protects it specially. Among the hall’s 16 poles, 10 date back to the Yuan Dynasty. The gold poles in the front and back lean inwards. They are called Inward Feet. Six pole bases are original antiques from the Yuan Dynasty. A 26-character inscription marks the beam’s installation time.
Other buildings mimic the hall’s style. They feature grey tiles, white walls and gable and hip roofs. Single eaves and dragon fastigium add to their charm.
The Zhenru Temple boasts several major attractions. These include the Yuan-dynasty Great Hall. You can also marvel at the four-side Kwan-yin statue. The nine-storied stupa reaches high into the sky. The long stele-corridor stretches impressively. Other sights include the picture of a sleeping dragon and the Wheel of Law. The Liuhe Garden and the ancient-tree Kwan-yin are also worth seeing. Finally, admire the multi-arris wall and the stone arch bridge. Do not miss the Buddhist relics.
Consider the Yuan-dynasty Great Hall. It has stood for 800 years. Ten poles, six pole bases and some bucket arches are original antiques. The 26-character inscription is historically significant. The roof’s fastigium and the figures of humans and animals were refitted. They are based on records and pictures from the Yuan Dynasty.
The nine-storied stupa is over 50 meters high. It echoes the Longhua Stupa in the southwest of Shanghai. This creates a historic sight. People say Do not miss the Longhua Stupa in the south and the Zhenru Stupa in the north. From the top, you can see the international metropolis. The Oriental Pearl TV tower is also visible.
Inside the Avalokitesvara Hall find the four-side Kwan-yin statue. It is made from a single piece of white marble. The Kwan-yin appears dignified graceful and kind. Its downward gaze seems to care for the world’s suffering. This inspires deep respect.
The picture of a sleeping dragon is unique. The stupa forms the tail. The cloud path is the body. The Tripitaka houses are the horns. Lotus ponds act as eyes. Black balls on stone lotuses serve as eyeballs.
The long stele-corridor stretches for 200 meters. Classic Buddhistic steles are arranged artfully. They create a sublime picture corridor.
In the north of the lawn, discover the Wheel of Law. Two osmanthus fragrans trees mark the axis. Pictures of the Wheel of Law are made from flowers and trees. Four Chinese characters represent the persistent running of the Wheel of Law.
The Liuhe Garden is a peaceful space. It includes zigzagged bridges and quiet creeks. Rockery, ball seats and flower-decorated fences add charm. Liuhe represents harmonious spirit.
The ancient-tree Kwan-yin is a treasure. The maidenhair tree was planted in the Yuan Dynasty. Lightning struck its black trunk. A daimyo oak grows in the hollow. On top of the oak is a cicatrice. It resembles Kwan-yin.
The multi-arris wall features 23 types of tracery windows. Four types of gates are decorated skillfully. This creates a unique and elegant atmosphere.
The Zhenru Temple stands as a symbol of Shanghai’s enduring cultural and religious heritage. Its ancient structures and artifacts offer a glimpse into the past. It continues to inspire reverence and awe in all who visit. As you leave, carry with you a sense of the temple’s timeless splendor and spiritual significance.