Daying Mosque in Songming County, Kunming

Chinese Name: Songming Daying Mosque (嵩明大营清真寺)
Location: Daying Township (大营乡), Songming County (嵩明县), Yunnan Province (云南省)
Current Mosque Director: Zhang Huaifu (张怀富)
Current Imam: Ma Wenzhou (马文周)
Postal Code: 651700

Historical Background

The Daying Mosque was originally constructed in the first year of the Xianfeng era (1851). It is situated in Daying Township, Songming County, Yunnan Province. The mosque has undergone multiple reconstructions due to various events, including being destroyed by war. Significant reconstruction efforts took place in:

• Guangxu Year 19 (1893)
• 1923, when the mosque was expanded
• 1983, when the local Muslim community raised funds to rebuild it after it was destroyed again during the Cultural Revolution

Scale and Structure

The mosque now spans an area of 1,500 square meters, with the main hall covering 200 square meters. The complex includes scripture classrooms and bathing facilities on the south side of the courtyard, providing a clean and tranquil environment. The main hall features wooden plaques inscribed with Chinese characters, such as “Promote Religion and Build the Nation” (兴教建国), “Sincerity Never Ceases” (至诚无息), and “Ancient Religion Opens Heaven” (开天古教).

Architectural Style

The Daying Mosque is designed in the traditional Chinese palace architectural style. The mosque’s entrance is a pagoda-style pavilion, and the main hall is hexagonal, presenting a majestic appearance. The unique design of the crescent moon tower adds to the mosque’s charm.

Community and Collaboration

The mosque serves a community of 730 households, totaling 3,400 people, all of whom are Hui nationality adherents of the Gedimu (格迪目) sect. The mosque employs 2 administrative staff (学董), 3 imams (阿訇), and 13 manias (满拉). The mosque houses 4 Arabic classic texts. Notable Hajj pilgrims from this community include Zhang Chaopin and others.

Travel Tips for Muslim Visitors

• Accommodation: Look for hotels or guesthouses in Songming County that offer Halal-friendly services. You can ask local mosques or Muslim communities for recommendations.
• Halal Food: There are Halal restaurants in Songming County serving Hui cuisine and other Halal dishes. Always ask for Halal certification if needed.
• Prayer Facilities: Daying Mosque is available for prayers. Confirm prayer times and other mosques or prayer rooms in the vicinity with local Muslim communities.
• Cultural Etiquette: Dress modestly when visiting the mosque, and follow the guidelines for entering and conducting oneself within the mosque. Respect local customs and traditions.
• Local Attractions: Explore the cultural and natural attractions of Songming County, including traditional architecture, scenic spots, and local markets. Learn about the rich history and diverse communities in the region.

Daying Mosque stands as a symbol of resilience and unity within the Hui Muslim community in Songming County. Its architectural beauty and historical significance make it a notable landmark in the region.