Cao Wang Chan Temple

Cao Wang Chan Temple

Cao Wang Chan Temple is a cultural tourism attraction.

Cao Wang Chan Temple is located in Heqiao Village, Xuhang Town, Jiading District, Shanghai. Historically, it was known as the Temple of Lord Cao. Who exactly was Lord Cao? There are no historical records to confirm this today. There are various legends, but none with concrete evidence. Some say he was from the Cao Wei period, others from the Tang Dynasty, yet none can be substantiated. According to the recollection of the 27th-generation monk Huizhi, based on cultural relics, it is said to commemorate Cao Can, a Han Dynasty chancellor. While accepted by local residents, this account is difficult to verify and requires further evidence. In reality, there is no longer a need to investigate in detail. From a Buddhist perspective, whether Cao Cao or Li Ming, they are all sentient beings. Even if revered as deities by locals, they remain within the six realms of existence and are still subjects of Buddhist salvation. The local people regarded Cao Wang as a deity, renamed the Temple of Lord Cao to Cao Wang Temple, and the incense offerings gradually flourished. People gathered to live nearby, forming the town of Cao Wang. As the townspeople sought deeper meaning, the practice of Buddhism gradually took root, leading to the construction of the Mahavira Hall within the temple to enshrine Sakyamuni Buddha. What began as a temple evolved into a monastery, officially named Cao Wang Chan Temple, a name that has endured to this day.

Today, under a clear political climate and a thriving nation, the number of Buddhists visiting to offer incense and worship has been steadily increasing. During major Buddhist festivals, gatherings here often exceed three thousand people. To accommodate the overall municipal planning following the merger of Xuhang and Cao Wang towns, and to protect and meet the religious needs of the Buddhist community, relocation and reconstruction were approved by the Jiading District Government at this new site.

The temple has now begun to take shape. Upon completion, it will include the Yuantong Treasure Hall, Mahavira Hall, Manjusri Pavilion, Samantabhadra Pavilion, Bell and Drum Towers, Sangharama Hall, Patriarchs Hall, as well as auxiliary facilities such as dining halls and monastic quarters. The entire architectural complex follows the Ming and Qing styles, with an overall master plan covering over thirty acres. Looking ahead, this place—with its splendid monastic structures, solemn and dignified atmosphere—will surely become an ideal site in northeastern Jiading for tranquil practice and cultivation of virtue. With fresh air, clear streams, free from the noise of the mundane world, and the resonant chants of Buddhist hymns drifting over the fields, it offers a space to dispel afflictions, attain a pure mind, and cultivate bodhicitta. It will also elevate the cultural richness of the Cao Wang area in Xuhang, Jiading.

The restoration project of Cao Wang Chan Temple is massive and requires substantial funding. Progress will take time, so we earnestly invite all benefactors and Buddhist practitioners to join this significant endeavor. Donations of any amount, though small, accumulate like grains of sand forming a tower, and all contribute immeasurable merit. This is our heartfelt invitation.

Transportation Routes

Address: No. 198, Panqiao Road, Xuhang, Jiading District, Shanghai

Transportation Routes: Jiapan Line, Beihua Line Section, Huating 963 Bus, Qiantai Line

Heqiao Village: Heqiao Village is situated at the eastern edge of Xuhang Town, Jiading District. To the east, it borders Luodian Town, Baoshan District, divided by Hutai Road. To the south, it faces Dayu Village of Malu Town, to the west it neighbors Xiaomiao Village, and to the north it adjoins Hongxing Village. The total land area is 4.08 square kilometers, with cultivated land covering 2,300 mu. In the early years after liberation, it was part of Mubang Township, Hongxing Second Production Brigade. In 1958, during the establishment of the People’s Commune, it came under the jurisdiction of Heqiao Brigade of Cao Wang People’s Commune. In 1983, it was officially separated and renamed Heqiao Village Committee. In 2002, following the merger of two villages into one, Shimiao Village was incorporated into Heqiao Village. The two villages united, forming 22 subordinate... More detailed information about Heqiao Village++