Shanghai Hong Temple: A Mark of Faith Deep in Time

Amidst the hustle and bustle of Nanjing East Road in Shanghai lies a temple steeped in centuries of history — Hong Temple, also known as Bao’an Situ Temple. Like a silent elder, it has witnessed Shanghai’s transformation from the bustling streets of the Ming and Qing dynasties to the tumultuous changes of modern times.

The history of Hong Temple dates back to the Wanli era of the Ming Dynasty (1573–1619). Originally named Zudong Gou Temple due to the small river flowing in front of its gates, it was initially a family temple for the Qu and Xie clans, managed by Buddhist monks, whose incense-filled prayers sustained the spiritual aspirations of the families.

Time passed, and by the end of the Kangxi reign of the Qing Dynasty, Hong Temple underwent a turning point in its destiny. The monk in charge voluntarily donated the temple and its assets to Zhang Daoshi, the abbot of the neighboring Songnan Daoyuan. After taking over, Zhang Daoshi diligently raised funds to renovate the temple, breathing new life into it. From then on, the position of abbot at Hong Temple was passed down through generations, gradually transforming the temple from a Buddhist family temple into an important temple of the Zhengyi School of Taoism in Shanghai, completing a splendid transformation in its religious affiliation.

The buildings within the temple are a frozen language of history. The Main Hall, Star Hall, General Hall, Guan Yu Hall, City God Hall, and Land God Hall are arranged in a harmonious layout, forming a complete temple complex. Except for the Main Hall, which was rebuilt after being destroyed by fire in the 26th year of the Guangxu reign (1901), the remaining structures retain their Ming Dynasty appearance. The carved patterns on the wooden structures and the patterns between the blue bricks and black tiles all bear the marks of time, recounting the construction techniques and aesthetic pursuits of the past.

Over the centuries, Hong Temple has been bustling with incense and visitors. On the 19th day of the second, sixth, and ninth lunar months—the birthday of Ci Hang—the temple was especially crowded and lively. Devotees came to worship and make wishes, while vendors set up stalls, creating a bustling scene of people and the sound of bells and drums, forming a vivid folk painting and a unique sight in Shanghai at the time.

After liberation, the Hong Temple established a temple management group to continue its role as a cultural and religious site. However, in 1966, its function changed, and it was repurposed for other uses. Despite this, the historical memories and cultural value it carries remain deeply imprinted in the fabric of Shanghai’s urban landscape.

Today, as people stroll along Nanjing East Road, they may still glimpse the remnants of this ancient temple’s former glory and feel the transcendent power of faith that spans time and space. Hong Temple has long transcended its role as a mere religious site, becoming a dazzling gem in Shanghai’s historical and cultural landscape.