The Story of Shanghai Part 2

Another opportunity to sneak out! This meant a 7 AM excursion to the Jade Buddha Temple also known as Yufo Si.

If you are lucky, you can envisage peace and solitude in the concrete jungles of Shanghai, in this abode – in this monastery, right in the bustle of the city. As I said – if you are lucky. Despite the environs of an active monastery, Yufo Si has been ensnared in the clutches of tourism.














The monastery, architecturally, transports your senses in to the mystique of Buddhism and the charms of a Heavenly Kingdom. The monastery’s pristine architecture stands on wood; polished, preserved and personified and emitting an aura of tranquility.








The monastery is divided in to various chambers. The courtyard, which witnesses congregation of those seeking divine blessings – has ‘Heavenly King Hall’ (housing – among others – Laughing Buddha ,Four Heavenly Kings)on one side, and ‘Grand Hall’ (housing – among others – Three Golden Buddhas) on the other.





















However, the mainstay of the monastery are the two Jade Buddhas(origins seem to be from Burma). The seated Buddha, ensconced in meditation and evoking tranquility, is bedecked with jewels and gems – adding richness and splendour to solitude. The chamber, which houses the larger of the two Jade Buddhas – stirs up sanguinity and inviolability. The other Jade Buddha – Reclining Buddha manifests His peaceful death.
Photographing the two, as expected is prohibited. There is also a replica of the Reclining Buddha, much bigger, made of marble and gifted by the government of Singapore.


















Also, back yard of the monastery – has a small pond, abode to Koi Fish(es). The fish, seeming survives for over 200 years!

As I had indicated – tourism has overwhelmed this tranquil monastery, stealing the other- worldly charms. Go early and you might just catch the twilights of peace!

And yes, there is a restaurant adjoining the monastery, where you can enjoy Buddhist delicacies, devoid of meat, garlic, onion among others. This is what constituted my breakfast –








Bread – perhaps made of maida flour and fried, a taste reminiscent of batura, and soya sauce on side. Oolong tea (Oolong tea leaves in hot water), is a must try as well.