Shanghai's Hidden Ancient Temple｜700-Year-Old Zhenru Temple, a Slow Time Haven in the City

Forget the crowded Jing'an Temple; this low-key ancient temple in Putuo, Shanghai, is a true treasure for healing the soul! As one of Shanghai's Four Famous Temples, Zhenru Temple's name comes from the Buddhist scripture meaning "True and Constant." Founded in the Yuan Dynasty over 700 years ago, it is even older than the Forbidden City. Stepping through the mountain gate, the noise fades away, and time slows down🌿 📍Address: No. 399 Lanxi Road, Putuo District 🚇Transport: Metro Line 11/14, Zhenru Station Exit 7, 8-minute walk 🎫Ticket: 10 RMB (great value) ⏰Opening Hours: Tuesday-Sunday 8:00-16:00; 1st and 15th of lunar month 6:30-16:00 ✨Key Highlights of the Ancient Temple ▪️Yuan Dynasty Living Fossil Architecture: The Mahavira Hall is the only remaining wooden structure from the Yuan Dynasty in Jiangnan, held together by mortise and tenon joints that have lasted a thousand years. The beams and columns still bear craftsmen’s inscriptions from the 7th year of the Yanyou era. Touching them feels like a dialogue between past and present. ▪️Tranquil Zen Amidst the Bustle: Unlike popular temples crowded with visitors, here the incense smoke drifts quietly, offering a peaceful place to sit, daydream, and soothe all restlessness. ▪️Autumn-Only Romance: In mid to late November, the thousand-year-old ginkgo trees turn golden, with fallen leaves forming a golden carpet. When the golden leaves flutter down, the beauty is breathtaking and the atmosphere is perfect. 📸Must-Visit & Photo Tips 1. Yuan Dynasty Hall: The light between 8-9 AM is perfect, with sunlight streaming through the window lattices, enhancing the ancient and solemn atmosphere—ideal for atmospheric photos. 2. Thousand-Year Ginkgo: In late autumn, golden leaves cover the branches. Stand under the tree for silhouette shots or shoot downward to capture the fallen leaves—gentle and photogenic. 3. White Dove Moments: White doves gather in front of the pagoda. Capture them taking flight while feeding for lively and healing shots. 4. Circumambulate the Pagoda for Blessings: There are 108 prayer wheels at the base of the pagoda. Turn them clockwise for blessings—very ritualistic and great for photos. 🗓️Nearby One-Day Tour Itinerary ▪️Morning: Stroll through Zhenru Temple and immerse yourself in the profound history of this ancient temple. ▪️Noon: Head to Zhenru Mutton Restaurant on Lanxi Road for an authentic bowl of mutton noodles and try the town’s signature lion’s head meatballs—rich and flavorful. ▪️Afternoon: Visit Zhenru Park for sightseeing or go up to MAX at Zhenru Huanyu City for a panoramic view blending the ancient temple with modern architecture. Conveniently stop by Sam’s Club nearby. Amid the urban hustle, there is such a Zen corner to quietly appreciate ancient architecture and local life—healing and delightful～🍂