“Closed for business. Time to reflect.” Does that sign deter the faithful? Perhaps not. Welcome to the serene 法善庵. This temple offers solace in Shanghai’s Yangpu district. Let’s explore its story together.
法善庵 sits at 338 Zhengben Road. It has seen over a century of history unfold. Imagine Shanghai at the end of the Qing Dynasty. That is when 法善庵 was first built. It stands as Yangpu district’s only Buddhist nunnery.
Originally the temple was at 9 Xieqing Road. It occupied only 70 square meters. A small space indeed. Sadly 法善庵 was destroyed during the tumultuous years of the Cultural Revolution.
However 法善庵’s story did not end there. In 1994 the Yangpu district government relocated and rebuilt it. They kept its original architectural style. The temple gradually reopened. Religious policies were then implemented. By the end of 1996 repairs were complete.
法善庵 gained official recognition in 1997. It was registered as a Buddhist nunnery. In October 1997 all Buddha statues in the main hall were consecrated.
What structures define 法善庵 today? The Grand Hall is impressive. There is also the Maitreya Hall. You can find the Reclining Buddha Hall and the Sutra Depository. The Hall of Merit and Virtue and the vegetarian dining hall are present too. Nuns reside in their dormitory. In total 法善庵 comprises thirty-six rooms. Their area covers over 900 square meters.
The temple faces north. Its entrance is close to Zhengben Road. 市佛教协会 president 真禅法师 inscribed the temple’s name. Entering the 法善庵 you will see the Grand Hall to the right. It stands upon a three-tiered platform. Red lacquered wooden doors mark the entrance. Pine and cypress trees stand in front. Bamboo graces the rear courtyard. The temple may be small. However it has an elegant style.
Behind the Grand Hall a stone tablet lists donors. The Baoshan Jing Temple tops that list. 法善庵 is surrounded by many schools. Students and parents often visit. They seek blessings before exams. This has become a notable scene in Yangpu.
法善庵 remains a place for quiet reflection. Also it is a testament to perseverance. Its story reflects Shanghai’s own. The sounds of chanting resonate. Step inside. Experience the enduring spirit of 法善庵.