Shulongcun Ma’s Mosque in Weishan County, Dali

Basic Information

  • Chinese Name: 树龙村马姓清真寺
  • English Name: Shulongcun Ma’s Mosque
  • Location: Shulongcun, Yongjian Township, Weishan County, Dali, Yunnan Province, China
  • Address: Shulongcun, Yongjian Township, Weishan County, Yunnan Province

Introduction

Shulongcun Ma’s Mosque is situated in Shulongcun, located west of Yongjian Township in Weishan County. It has a long history of reconstruction, with the latest major renovation in 1990. The mosque covers approximately 4 acres with a total construction area of 2230 square meters.

Historical Background

  • Founding: The exact founding date is unknown. It was relocated north of the village and rebuilt several times due to various reasons, including reconstruction in 1902 during the Guangxu period (光绪二十八年). It underwent expansions in 1973 and a major reconstruction in 1990 to accommodate the growing population.
  • Structural Features: The main prayer hall features a double-eaved gable and hip roof with flying eaves and a hexagonal pavilion at the ridge, showcasing unique architectural elements. It spans 1436 square meters. The mosque includes wooden structure side rooms used as dormitories and classrooms.

Community and Education

  • Community Details: Shulongcun Ma’s Mosque serves 150 households with around 960 Hui Muslims from the Ge Dima subgroup. The village has a tradition of religious education, producing notable figures such as the Imam and calligrapher Ma Fuchen (马辅臣).
  • Current Leadership: The mosque currently has over 50 imams (阿訇), 1 Haji (哈吉), and hosts an Arabic language school with around 32 students (满拉).

Religious Activities

  • Facilities: The mosque provides facilities for regular religious activities, maintaining a strong religious and educational presence within the community.

Muslim Travel Tips

For Muslim travelers visiting Shulongcun Ma’s Mosque:

  1. Prayer Facilities: The mosque offers adequate prayer facilities. Visitors can participate in congregational prayers and experience local Islamic customs and practices.
  2. Dress Code: Dress modestly and respectfully when entering the mosque, covering arms and legs. Women should bring a headscarf for mosque visits.
  3. Respect Etiquette: Follow mosque etiquette, including removing shoes before entering prayer areas, maintaining silence during prayers, and respecting the sanctity of the mosque.
  4. Halal Food: Seek out Halal food options in Weishan County. Local eateries may offer Halal-certified dishes suitable for Muslim dietary preferences.

Getting There

Shulongcun Ma’s Mosque is located in Shulongcun, Yongjian Township, Weishan County, Dali, Yunnan Province, China. It is easily accessible by local roads, providing convenient transportation options for visitors interested in exploring this historical and cultural site.