“How did two jade Buddha statues from Myanmar end up here in Shanghai?” This question has echoed through the halls of the Jade Buddha Temple since its founding. Let me tell you the fascinating story.
The Jade Buddha Temple is a Buddhist temple. It was founded in 1882. A Buddhist monk named Huigen brought two jade Buddha statues here from Myanmar. The statues were gifts from Chen Jun-Pu. He was a Chinese resident living in Burma.
One statue depicts a sitting Buddha. It is an impressive 1.95 meters tall and weighs 3 tons. The other shows the Buddha in a reclining position, representing his death. Today, you can also see a larger reclining Buddha. This one is made of marble and was donated from Singapore. Some visitors mistake it for the original.
The journey of these statues is quite remarkable. Huigen traveled to Tibet via Mount Wutai and Mount Emei. After Tibet, he visited Burma. That is where he received the jade Buddhas. He transported two of them back to Shanghai. He then built a temple to house them using donated funds. Sadly, Huigen died soon after.
The original temple was occupied during the 1911 uprising. The statues were moved to Maigen Road for safekeeping. Later, another monk named Kechen built a new temple. He received support from Sheng Xuanhuai. Sheng was a senior official in the Qing imperial court. Construction lasted from 1918 to 1928. Kechen invited Reverend Dixian to lecture on Buddhism in a grand ceremony.
Even during the Cultural Revolution in 1966, the monks found a way to sustain themselves. They sold handicrafts to make a living. In 1983, the Shanghai Institute of Buddhism was established here.
Let’s talk about the temple layout. The Chamber of Four Heavenly Kings is at the front. It features statues of Maitreya, Skanda and the Four Heavenly Kings. These kings represent favorable circumstances.
The Grand Hall houses many important statues. You will see three golden Buddhas. The Buddha is in the center. Amitabha is on the left and Bhaisajyaguru on the right. Twenty Devas line the eastern and western sides. Eighteen Arhats stand in two groups of nine. A large golden statue of Guanyin stands near the northern entrance.
Finally, the Jade Buddha Chamber is on the second floor. This is where you can see the original jade Buddha statue. An additional fee is charged to enter.
Before you leave, consider visiting the public restaurant. It is on the second level. You can enjoy a bowl of “double mushroom noodles” for a reasonable price.
The Jade Buddha Temple continues to be a significant place of worship and a cultural landmark in Shanghai. Its history and the serene beauty of the jade Buddhas make it a truly special place to visit. The story of Huigen and his arduous journey reminds us of the dedication and faith that shaped this temple.