Longhua Temple and Pagoda

Shanghai's oldest Buddhist temple complex, with the city's only surviving classical pagoda. Active monastery; Lunar New Year bell-striking ceremony.

Longhua Temple's origins date to the 3rd century, though the current buildings are mostly Qing-era reconstructions. The 7-storey octagonal pagoda (current structure 977) is Shanghai's only major surviving classical pagoda. The temple is active; the Lunar New Year bell-striking ceremony (the bell is rung 108 times) is broadcast on Shanghai TV.