Chinese vegetarian practices date back to the pre-Qin period (before 221 BC). A jewel in this culinary tradition is the Longhua Temple in Shanghai, a historic site with a legacy spanning over 1,700 years.

The food at Longhua Temple was humble, with vegetarian noodles and tea serving as sustenance for the resident monks. The culinary art of Longhua Temple has evolved alongside the monastery's development.

During the Ming and Qing dynasties (1368-1911), iconic dishes like vegetarian noodles and dried bean curd gained popularity among the pilgrims.

Longhua Vegetarian Restaurant, located in the Longhua Temple's serene backyard, offers a range of vegetarian delights.

The signature vegetarian noodles are known for their delightful chewiness, flavorful broth, and meticulously prepared toppings, making them a sought-after treat for worshippers and visitors alike. The option to refill both toppings and noodles adds to their appeal.

In addition to the noodles, vegetarian chicken, kaofu (spongy wheat gluten) and assorted vegetarian delicacies are also popular choices among diners.

For those looking to take a piece of this culinary experience home, recommended items include vegetarian duck, ham, mung bean cakes, and mooncakes, as well as the babaofan (Eight Treasure Rice).

A visit to Longhua Temple often includes savoring a bowl of vegetarian noodles, sometimes complemented by vegetarian duck and mung bean cakes, which are shared as thoughtful gifts for loved ones, symbolizing blessings and goodwill.

If you go

Longhua Road branch of Longhua Vegetarian Restaurant

Location: No 2787 Longhua Road, Xuhui district

How to get there: Longhua Station on Metro Lines 11/12

Sources: Radio Shanghai, Shanghai Municipal Bureau of Ethnic and Religious Affairs