Tangzi Mosque in Xundian County, Kunming

Overview

Tangzi Mosque （塘子清真寺） is a local mosque with a long history in Xundian, where Located in Tangzi Village, Tangzi Town, Xundian County, Yunnan Province. It was built in the early Ming Dynasty and is a typical example of the Sinicization of Islam, which can be fully reflected from its strong traditional Chinese architectural style. The whole building system consists of a single building to form a courtyard, and then the courtyard as a unit to form a layout of one into two courtyards, there are more than 40 true hall, call worship building, sutra hall and other ancillary rooms.

Historical Background

Tangzi Mosque, also known as Tangzi Qingzhen Temple, is located in Tangzi Village, Tangzi Town, Xundian County. It was originally constructed during the mid-Ming Dynasty and later rebuilt during the reign of Emperor Qianlong in the Qing Dynasty. The mosque complex includes an Islamic study hall, a minaret, a main prayer hall, auxiliary buildings, and a kitchen, comprising more than 50 rooms.

Historical Events: In the 9th year of the Republic of China (1920), Tangzi Village experienced bandit raids that resulted in the mosque being burnt down. Local villagers raised funds by selling over 10 acres of temple land to finance its reconstruction, which began in 1923 (Republic of China year 12) and was completed in 1927 (Republic of China year 16). In 1937 (Republic of China year 26), a grand entrance gate with a stone arch was added to the main temple. The mosque’s facade features five minarets with a three-story base, showcasing exquisite craftsmanship and grandeur. The eaves of the main prayer hall are adorned with intricate carvings of flowers and birds, highlighting its significant artistic value.

Artistic Significance: Above the main hall, three large plaques were hung: “Promoting Education and Nation Building,” presented by Bai Chongxi, Minister of Military Training of the Republic of China in 1944 (Republic of China year 33); “Unique and Excellent,” presented by Lieutenant General Ma Yong in 1941 (Republic of China year 30); and “Myriad Uniqueness,” presented by Major General Ma Boliang in 1941 (Republic of China year 30). During the Republic of China era, the mosque served as the meeting place for the Islamic Progress Association and the Islamic Salvation Association branch, and it hosted the Awen Girls’ School.

Post-1958: Religious activities ceased after 1958, and the mosque was repurposed. In 1982, the county government allocated funds for its restoration, transforming it into a religious site for the Muslim community in Tangzi Village.

Muslim Travel Tips:

  • Visiting Hours: Check for designated visiting hours as the mosque is now primarily a religious site.
  • Respectful Visits: When visiting, maintain respectful behavior and adhere to any dress code or guidelines provided.
  • Historical Exploration: Explore the rich history and architectural beauty of Tangzi Mosque, including its minarets and carved decorations.
  • Local Culture: Take time to learn about the local Muslim culture and history in Xundian County while visiting Tangzi Mosque.

Tangzi Mosque stands as a testament to the enduring cultural and historical significance of Islam in Xundian County, Yunnan Province.