Jade Buddha Temple

Today, after a difficult run because of poor air quality, I ventured back into town to see the Jade Buddha Temple. As usual, I took a few detours whenever I saw interesting things.

The first thing that caught my attention is this old building called the Shanghai Exhibition Centre.
I'm not sure what the exhibition centre was exhibiting today but it seemed to be related to Expo 2010 and with a crowd of mostly Chinese and most looking like student groups, I figured it was nothing of interest for a foreigner, so I moved on...
When I got to the Jade Buddha Temple, which was built almost 100 years ago, I was immediately taken aback by the complete change of atmosphere. The way the temple is built with greenery and serene scenery took me to a relaxed contemplative state in a matter of seconds. Even the city smells were erased by the sweet aroma of offered incense.
I took a quick look around the temple and was puzzled by the red ribbons everywhere.
Even the decorative lions were sometimes silenced using the ribbons
Soon after my arrival, a singing/prayer service was held
I then wandered the grounds a bit
I slowly explored the various chambers with their intriguing and beautiful depictions of Buddha and the heavenly kings.
Does this guy look mean or what?
The attention to detail throughout is astounding. Backdrops, single pieces, even the building and courtyard are full of eye pleasing details
After I visited the main chambers, I headed to see the main attraction, the Jade Buddha itself. I'm not sure why but the giant statue requires a separate entry fee and photographs are strictly prohibited. I'm not sure why the Buddha would oppose its picture being shared freely but the place was rigged with more surveillance than a vegas casino so I did not try to break the rules.

After my visit to the Jade Buddha chamber, I went to what is called the 10,000 Buddhas Hall which is decorated with (I will believe it since there were lots) 10,000 Buddhas. Imagine wall to wall coverage of these Buddha statues, it can add up pretty quickly.
Interestingly enough our friend Haibao (the mascot for Expo 2010) was able to negotiate a deal with the Buddha to occupy some of the space in the temple.
Once my relaxing visit to this beautiful temple was over, it was time to go pick up my new suit!
I'm really glad I got them both from different places because the quality is a bit questionable at the first shop I visited. I was so pleased with the work the second shop did on my shirts that I asked for 2 more to be ready next week.

We went to a Thai restaurant for dinner. I think we are on exotic overload and starting to try to regain some down home flavours. This typical thai restaurant could very well have been serving us from the middle of the Byward Market in Ottawa. I find that I am really paranoid about ordering food now that I got sick earlier this week. I had a Tom Ka soup and Alex has sweet and sour soup.
For main dishes, I had a Shrimp Pad Thai and Alex a curry Chicken.
Tomorrow I will try to go visit the French Concession, weather and digestive system permitting.