Xiazuosuo Mosque in Chengjiang County, Yuxi

Short Introduction and Overview

Chinese Name: 下左所清真寺

English Name: Xiazuosuo Mosque

Location: Xiazuo Suo Mosque is located in Zuo Suo Township, Chengjiang County, Yunnan Province, China.

Accessibility: Visitors can reach the mosque via local roads, situated in a historically significant area known for its cultural and religious heritage.

Xiazuo Suo Mosque(下左所清真寺), also known as Jing Sheng Tang, has a rich history dating back to the Yuan Dynasty, when many Central Asian Muslims settled in Yunnan as part of Kublai Khan’s military campaigns. It served initially as a simple prayer hall for soldiers stationed in the region, later evolving into a formal mosque during the Ming Dynasty. The mosque underwent several renovations during the Ming and Qing Dynasties, surviving challenges including destruction during the anti-Qing uprisings led by Yunnan’s Hui Muslims.

Historical Background

  • Foundation: Originally established as a military outpost during the Yuan Dynasty, it housed a makeshift prayer hall. With economic development during the Ming Dynasty, the mosque was officially constructed and expanded during the reigns of Emperor Jiajing and Emperor Jiaqing.
  • Renovations: Significant renovations occurred during the Ming Jiajing period and later during the Qing Dynasty.
  • Challenges: During the Qing Xianfeng and Tongzhi reigns, Yunnan’s Hui Muslims rebelled against the Qing Dynasty, resulting in the destruction of many mosques in Chengjiang County. Xiazuo Suo Mosque, however, survived due to strategic alliances and local support.

Cultural and Educational Significance

  • Educational Legacy: After the 1911 Revolution, the mosque became a center for Islamic education in Chengjiang, hosting scholars like Ma Minggao and Ma Liangqing, who trained numerous students in Islamic studies.
  • Modern Era: Since 1982, the mosque has continued its educational role under Ma Yunfang’s leadership, known for his teachings and the graduation of five cohorts of students in Islamic studies.Xiazuosuo Mosque in Chengjiang County, Yuxi

Travel Tips for Visitors

  1. Respectful Visit: Visitors should dress modestly and respect Islamic customs when visiting the mosque.
  2. Historical Exploration: Explore the architectural features and historical artifacts preserved within the mosque, reflecting its enduring legacy.
  3. Local Culture: Engage with local communities to learn more about the mosque’s significance and its role in the region’s cultural landscape.

Xiazuo Suo Mosque stands as a testament to the resilience of Yunnan’s Hui Muslim community and continues to be a place of worship, education, and cultural preservation in Chengjiang County.