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(Qian Xuesen Tushuguan; Jiaotong University, 1800 Huashan Rd; 1800 9am-4pm; Jiao­-­ tong University) A former graduate of Jiaotong University, Qian Xuesen (Hsue-shen Tsien) was a pioneering aviation and rocket scientist, trumpeted as the father of China’s aeronautical industry and space program. In typical fashion, Qian (who died in 2009) is given a spotlessly patriotic appraisal by this elaborate and overproduced three-floor museum in Jiaotong University. The displays revel in the milestones of the scientist’s life, including his triumphant return to China from the US, where he began his career and had endured house arrest after being labelled a communist during the McCarthy era.

South Shanghai

Longhua Temple & Pagoda Buddhist Temple

(Longhua Si & Longhua Ta; 6457 6327; 2853 Longhua Rd; 2853 admission Y10; 7am-4.30pm; Longcao Rd, 44 from Xujiahui) Southeast, away from Xujiahui, is the oldest and largest monastery in Shanghai, taking its name (Longhua) from the pipal tree under which Buddha achieved enlightenment. The much-renovated temple is said to date from the 10th century, its five main halls commencing with the Laughing Buddha Hall and bell and drum towers rising on either side of the entrance. The temple is particularly famed for its 6500kg bell, cast in 1894.

Several other side buildings can be explored, including the Thousand Luohan Hall, sheltering a huge legion of glittering arhat. A large effigy of Sakyamuni seated on a lotus flower resides within the main hall – the Great Treasure Hall. Beyond the main hall is a vegetarian restaurant and a further imposing hall – the Sanshengbao Hall – with a golden trinity of Buddhist statues.

Opposite the temple entrance rises the much-restored seven-storey, 44m-high Long­hua Pagoda, originally built in AD 977. Visitors are not allowed to climb the pagoda, but a sprawl of stalls selling snacks and souvenirs fans out in the vicinity.

The best time to visit is during the Long­hua Temple Fair, in the third month of the lunar calendar (usually during April or May).

Дата добавления: 2015-11-14