3.7 Field Report: The Zen Magnolias of Longhua Temple Are Blooming

In Longhua Temple, the oldest temple in Shanghai, a 300-year-old white magnolia tree is quietly blooming. Among the green tiles and yellow walls, it looks like clouds of snow. When the wind blows, the falling petals flutter like fragrant rain before the Buddha. It is said that the tree was planted by the abbot during the Qianlong period of the Qing Dynasty. The ancient tree's gnarled branches and the temple's upturned eaves complement each other, creating the most Zen-like spring scene in Shanghai. 📸Photo tips: ▫️The light and shadow are softest in the early morning mist. ▫️The magnolia tree is next to the Three Sages Hall. ▫️It is recommended to wear plain clothes/Hanfu for better photos. ✨The magnolias are not yet in full bloom. The peak blooming period is in mid-to-late March. The ancient tree's flowering period is only 7–10 days, so don't miss it! Don't forget to encounter the small animals of Longhua Temple during your flower viewing trip! 📍Longhua Temple (2853 Longhua Road, Xuhui District) 🚇Metro Line 11/12, Longhua Station, Exit 4 🎫Incense ticket: 10 yuan (including three sticks of incense)