Yuping Mosque in Xundian County, Kunming

Name:Yuping Mosque (玉屏清真寺)

Location: Yuping Mosque is situated on Yuping Street in Rende Town, Xundian County, Kunming City, Yunnan Province.

History and Architecture

Yuping Mosque dates back to the early Ming Dynasty, initially constructed to serve the local Muslim community. Over time, the mosque faced challenges due to its low-lying location and aging structures, which eventually became inadequate for religious activities. In 1934, local dignitaries, led by Bao Ruqi, initiated efforts to rebuild the mosque. Through fundraising initiatives, the old mosque was demolished, and reconstruction efforts were completed in 1937.

The mosque features:

• A main prayer hall with three chambers.
• North and south wing rooms, each comprising three chambers.
• A notable three-story minaret.
• Inside, visitors can find two inscribed steles: one commemorating donors and another detailing the mosque’s properties, including fields, mountains, and annual rental income.

Post-1958 Developments

After 1958, the main hall of Yuping Mosque was repurposed for use by production teams, reflecting the changes during that period. However, in 1987, significant funding from the county government facilitated a major restoration project. This restoration involved demolishing the original wooden minaret and constructing a new 13-room Arabic-style prayer hall, characterized by a distinctive crescent and star roof design. Despite these renovations, efforts were made to maintain the mosque’s original architectural appearance.

The County Islamic Association is currently housed within Yuping Mosque, continuing to play a vital role in serving the spiritual and community needs of the local Muslim population in Xundian County.

Muslim Travel Tips

• Visiting Hours: Check for designated visiting hours to ensure access to the mosque.
• Respectful Behavior: When visiting Yuping Mosque, adhere to local customs and dress codes out of respect for the religious significance of the site.
• Historical Insights: Explore the rich historical background and architectural features of Yuping Mosque, including its minaret and inscribed steles.
• Cultural Experience: Take the opportunity to learn about the local Muslim culture and community in Rende Town while visiting Yuping Mosque.

Yuping Mosque stands as a testament to the enduring cultural heritage and religious devotion of the Muslim community in Xundian County, Kunming City, Yunnan Province.