Zhenru Temple: The Oldest Heart of Shanghai
Zhenru Temple (真如寺) is a living time machine in the heart of modern Shanghai. It houses the city's main historical treasure — the only surviving wooden building from the Yuan dynasty, built in 1320. While Shanghai rapidly turns into a city of skyscrapers, Zhenru Temple carefully preserves the atmosphere of the 14th century.
Unlike over‑commercialised tourist spots, an authentic Buddhist monastery atmosphere reigns here. You will hear the ringing of bells, the rustle of a 650‑year‑old ginkgo tree, see monks making their rounds, and touch ancient columns that remember the time of Marco Polo. This is a place where history is not behind glass in a museum, but alive and breathing.
What awaits you at Zhenru Temple
Sample tour itinerary to Zhenru Temple
- Meeting and departure from central Shanghai — the guide will pick you up from your hotel or a metro station, arrange a transfer (by taxi or car).
- Arrival at Zhenru Temple — entrance ticket is paid separately (~10¥). First acquaintance with the atmosphere of the ancient monastery.
- Main Hall of the Yuan dynasty (1320) — detailed exploration of Shanghai's oldest building, stories about architecture and history, original wooden columns.
- Zhenru Pagoda and prayer wheels — 53‑meter pagoda with an underground palace containing a Buddha relic (sharira). Circumambulation of 108 wheels to accumulate good karma.
- 650‑year‑old ginkgo tree and temple courtyards — a living witness of history, a walk through quiet courtyards, exploration of additional pavilions.
- Free time and observation of monastic life — opportunity to watch monks' rituals, take photos, and relax.
- Return to Shanghai — transfer back to a convenient location (hotel, metro).
Sample tour schedule
*Times may be adjusted depending on transport and weather. Morning visit (6:00–8:00) is recommended.
| Time | Program stage | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 09:30 | Meeting and departure from central Shanghai | Meeting at Xinzhuang metro station, departure by taxi/car to Putuo District. |
| 10:30 | Arrival at Zhenru Temple | Entrance ticket (10¥) paid separately. |
| 10:45 | Main Hall of the Yuan dynasty | Exploration of the wooden building from 1320, guide's commentary. |
| 11:30 | Pagoda and prayer wheels | 53‑meter pagoda with the relic, circumambulation of 108 wheels. |
| 12:15 | Ginkgo tree and courtyards | 650‑year‑old tree, walk around the grounds. |
| 13:00 | Free time | Photos, observation of monks, rest. |
| 13:45 | Meeting and departure | Return to Shanghai. |
| 14:45 | Arrival in Shanghai | Tour ends. |
💡 Important notes:
- Clothing: modest, covering shoulders and knees.
- Photos: allowed without flash indoors.
- Relic: in the underground palace of the pagoda the Buddha's sharira is kept.
Price and conditions
Tour price
Metro + taxi
EconomyMetro (lines 11 or 14) + walk. Services of a Russian‑speaking guide.
By car
ComfortGuide services + round‑trip car transfer. Maximum comfort and time saving.
Additional expenses per person
- Temple entrance ticket10¥ (~$1.5)
- Donations (optional)optional
- Lunch at local restaurants50-100¥ (~$7-14)
- Public transport (economy)~15-25¥ (~$2-4)
Duration
Additional services
Frequently asked questions
Important information
Zhenru Temple is an active Buddhist monastery and a nationally protected architectural monument. Visitors must keep quiet on the grounds, respect religious objects and follow the guide's instructions.
The indicated prices are valid at the time of the offer. The temple entrance ticket is 10 yuan (about $1.5) but may be changed by the administration.
Booking is made after receiving a prepayment. Exchange rate is calculated at the current rate on the payment date.
Cancellation less than 48 hours before the event is non‑refundable.
