Xincun Mosque in Weishan County, Dali

Basic Information

  • Chinese Name: 巍山新村清真寺
  • English Name: Xincun Mosque
  • Location: Xincun Village, Yongjian Township, Weishan County, Dali Prefecture, Yunnan Province, China

Introduction

Xincun Mosque is a significant religious site located in Xincun Village, Yongjian Township, Weishan County, Dali Prefecture, Yunnan Province. It serves as a center of worship and community activities for the Hui Muslim population in the region.

Historical Background

  • Founding: The exact founding date of Xincun Mosque is unknown. However, records indicate that it was destroyed during the Tongzhi Emperor’s reign in 1872 and subsequently rebuilt multiple times. The mosque underwent significant expansions in 1973 and was rebuilt again in 1988.

Structural Features

  • Architecture: Xincun Mosque features a main prayer hall in a double-eave hip-and-gable style, covering an area of over 300 square meters. The mosque also includes a distinctive pavilion known as the “Xuanli Building,” built in a four-cornered hip-and-gable style, with a unique architectural design integrated into the surrounding landscape. The total built-up area of the mosque is 994 square meters, spread over approximately 3 acres.
  • Community Space: The mosque includes several wooden structures used as classrooms and dormitories for educational purposes.

Community and Education

  • Community Details: Xincun Village is predominantly inhabited by Hui Muslims, with 70 households and over 400 residents belonging to the Gedi clan. The mosque is home to 10 imams (阿訇) and 1 haaji (哈吉). It hosts an Islamic primary school (阿文小学) that provides morning and evening classes for local children.

Muslim Travel Tips

For Muslim travelers visiting Xincun Mosque:

  1. Prayer Facilities: The mosque provides designated prayer areas segregated for men and women. Visitors should adhere to local customs and Islamic practices during their visit.
  2. Cultural Experience: Explore the mosque’s architecture and participate in prayers to experience local Islamic customs and traditions.
  3. Respect Etiquette: Dress modestly and remove shoes before entering prayer areas. Maintain silence and avoid disruptions during prayer times.
  4. Halal Food: Seek out Halal food options in Weishan County to ensure dietary preferences align with Islamic principles.

Getting There

Xincun Mosque is located in Xincun Village, Yongjian Township, Weishan County, Dali Prefecture, Yunnan Province, China. The village is accessible via local roads, offering visitors insights into local culture and the picturesque landscapes of the region.