An unexpected Chinese New Year (competition entry)

It is peaceful here; the only sound is wooden prayers clacking against one another in the breeze. Hundreds of prayers are all around me - they're above my head and tied up in trees and bushes in the temple’s little garden, alongside red and yellow pieces of silk, lanterns and a wide banner which reads “2015.”

Dozens of candles flames flicker in the middle of the temple’s courtyard,, each one is shaped like a flower- though some are undisguisable now as they’ve been burning most of the day. Is it late afternoon, the day after Chinese New Year - the celebrations, like the candles, have dimmed down.

I have been in Shanghai for three days and constantly surrounded by crowds, but finally there are no herds of tourists tramping through. The only other people are the monks tending to the temple, their figures somewhat dwarfed by the giant golden Buddha statues. My steps slow as I walk around and I'm completely awash with awe.

Of all the places I have explored in and around Shanghai, this is my favourite. It may not have the modern glamour of the skyscrapers or the ancient beauty of the gardens but its simplicity makes it so serene and special. Rather than frantically trying to take in the sights and take lots of pictures, instead all I can do is try to absorb the tranquil atmosphere.

You won’t read about the Yunxiang Temple in many guidebooks, nor is it that easy to find. You’ve got to know it’s here.

Here is Nanxian – a water town outside of Shanghai - despite only being twenty minutes out of the city centre, it feels like it’s a completely different world away. It’s bizarre that this hidden pocket of peace is so easily accessed by a simple subway ride.

All you need is a subway ticket – 30 Yuan for a single journey- use Line 11 and get off at the Nanxiang stop. A word of warning – despite the temple being a short walk away from the station - it can be very easy to get lost. My sense of direction is awful and it’s a good thing I was with a friend who knew exactly where we were going otherwise I would probably still be there trying to find it!

Walk past the shopping centre and along a busy main road before you see the murky green water and wooden platforms, indicating the entrance to the water town of Nanxiang, which holds the temple and a garden. I would have loved to explore this garden but, sadly, didn’t have the time. Make sure to set aside a full morning or afternoon to fully absorb the water town’s ancient beauty.