
Jade Buddha Temple is named after the main deity worshipped inside, the Jade Buddha. As one of the top 10 tourist attractions in Shanghai, the temple is located in a bustling urban area yet provides a peaceful sanctuary. It is known as a pure land amidst the hustle and bustle of the city and was designated as a key Buddhist temple for the Han ethnic group by the State Council as early as 1983.
The architecture of the Jade Buddha Temple is unique and features a palace-style design inspired by the Song Dynasty. The layout is meticulous and the structures are harmonious. Along the central axis of the temple, the Hall of Heavenly Kings, the Hall of Guanyin, and the Grand Hall of the Great Buddha are arranged in sequence, exuding solemnity. The roofs of the halls are adorned with carved eaves and brackets, showcasing the beauty of traditional Chinese architecture. The front wall of the mountain gate is adorned with five large stone tablets, spanning 30 meters, which is rare nationwide. The exquisite brick carvings depict lifelike patterns, possessing high artistic value.
In the new era, the Jade Buddha Temple attaches great importance to its social responsibilities and actively practices the sinicization of Buddhism in the socialist new era. It has been consecutively awarded as a civilized religious venue in Shanghai and recognized as an advanced collective in the first and second national creation of harmonious temples and monasteries.
After paying respects at the Jade Buddha Temple, it has become a "must-have" for many Shanghai residents to enjoy a bowl of vegetarian noodles. The vegetarian cuisine of the temple is based on the traditional cuisine and is renowned for its exquisite Jiangnan-style dishes. Signature dishes at the Jade Buddha Temple vegetarian restaurant include Luohan Vegetarian Noodles, Mushroom Gluten Noodles, and Vegetarian Wontons. The pure vegetarian mooncakes of the temple have a history of over thirty years and are beloved by the people of Shanghai. The dim sum at the vegetarian restaurant is also famous overseas, featuring unique shapes symbolizing auspiciousness such as bats, lotus flowers, and persimmons, as well as refreshing delicacies like mixed nuts and walnuts, date paste, rose peony, and apple pastry.