Hefei Mosque

Overview

The Hefei Mosque (合肥清真寺) is located in Shouchun Road, Luyang District, Hefei, Anhui Province. The mosque was originally constructed during the Ming Dynasty, in the Hongwu era. Also known as Lǐbài Sì (礼拜寺), it has gone through several stages of renovation and reconstruction. Since the 1980s, after the Chinese government’s implementation of policies related to ethnic and religious affairs, the mosque has undergone major repairs and improvements. Today, it stands as a well-maintained, modern building with traditional Chinese architectural elements, and it serves as an important cultural and religious hub for the Muslim community in Hefei.

  • Chinese Name: 合肥清真寺
  • Location: Shouchun Road, Luyang District, Hefei, Anhui Province
  • Construction Time: Ming Dynasty, Hongwu Era
  • Other Name: 礼拜寺 (Lǐbài Sì)
  • Area: 1500 square meters
  • Main Hall Area: 400 square meters
  • Number of Worshippers: 3,000 households (approx. 10,000 people)

History

Initial Construction

The construction of Hefei Mosque began during the Hongwu period of the Ming Dynasty. With the increasing spread of Islam in China during the Tang and Yuan Dynasties, the mosque was built as a religious and cultural center for the local Muslim population. Over the centuries, the mosque became a prominent site for worship and learning.

Renovations and Expansion

In the past, the mosque suffered damage, but after the implementation of the Chinese government’s ethnic and religious policies in 1981, it was repaired and expanded with support from local government. The mosque was significantly rebuilt, incorporating new facilities, a reasonable structure, and modern features while maintaining its traditional style.

Since the repairs, the mosque has become a more spacious and aesthetically pleasing structure, offering a welcoming place for the local Muslim community to practice their faith.

Key Features

The mosque spans a total area of 1,500 square meters, with a 400-square-meter main hall. The mosque also includes a 160-square-meter washing area for men and women, a 40-square-meter study hall, and a 200-square-meter area for meetings and special gatherings.

The mosque is not only a place of worship but also a center for community interaction, education, and religious practice. The mosque houses 30 volumes of Arabic Quranic scriptures. The local Muslim population is about 10,000 people, mainly consisting of Hui Muslims.

Since 1982, when it officially opened to the public, the mosque has played a significant role in fostering religious and cultural exchanges between China and the global Muslim community. It has built strong relationships with religious figures and organizations worldwide, promoting peace, understanding, and cooperation.

Notable Achievements

Hefei Mosque has always adhered to the principles of Sinicizing Islam, emphasizing patriotism, loyalty to the Communist Party, and the Socialist core values. It also promotes strict religious education, Islamic studies, and cultural practices that align with local Chinese customs. The mosque has been praised at national, provincial, and local levels, earning recognition as a harmonious mosque.

The mosque’s current Imam is Mu Kefah (穆可发), who serves as the Vice Chairman of the China Islamic Association, a member of the National People’s Congress, and the President of the Anhui Provincial Islamic Association.

Architecture

The Hefei Mosque follows a traditional Arabic architectural style, combining Islamic design principles with elements of Chinese aesthetics. The structure includes:

  • Main Hall: The largest area of the mosque, with a 434.8 square meter prayer hall featuring high ceilings and a clean, open layout.
  • Study Hall: A dedicated space for religious study and teachings.
  • Courtyards and Corridors: Open spaces for gatherings and reflection.
  • Restrooms and Washing Facilities: Separate areas for men and women, ensuring the comfort and cleanliness for worshippers.

The building uses reinforced concrete in its construction, which gives it a solid and durable structure while maintaining its Islamic aesthetic.

Geography and Transportation

Location

The mosque is located at 35 Shouchun Road, Luyang District, Hefei, Anhui Province. It is in close proximity to other historical landmarks in the area, such as Mingjiao Temple (明教寺), which is situated nearby.

Transportation Tips:

  • By Public Transport:
    • Bus: Hefei’s public bus network is extensive, and several buses pass through Shouchun Road. Look for buses that stop at nearby locations, such as Mingjiao Temple, as the mosque is within walking distance from there.
    • Hefei Railway Station: The mosque is located approximately 10 km from Hefei Railway Station, which is easily accessible by taxi or public transport. The taxi ride takes about 15-20 minutes.
  • By Taxi/Private Car:
    • Taxis: Taxis are readily available in Hefei. Simply tell the driver you wish to go to Hefei Mosque (合肥清真寺), and they will take you directly to the location.
    • Private Car: For those traveling by private car, inputting the mosque’s address in a GPS or map app should guide you directly to the location.

Travel Tips:

  • Respect Religious Customs: When visiting the mosque, please dress modestly and appropriately. Women are advised to cover their heads with a scarf, while both men and women should cover their shoulders and knees.
  • Prayer Times: The mosque holds regular prayers throughout the day, including Fajr (dawn), Dhuhr (midday), Asr (afternoon), Maghrib (sunset), and Isha (night) prayers. Visitors are welcome to join the prayers, but please check the mosque’s schedule for specific prayer timings.
  • Cultural Significance: As a hub for religious learning and practice, Hefei Mosque offers an excellent opportunity to learn more about Islam in China. Visitors may wish to ask the Imam or local members for insights into the mosque’s history and the role of Islam in Chinese society.

Hefei Mosque is an important cultural and religious site for the Muslim community in Anhui Province. Its long history, beautiful architecture, and significant role in promoting Islamic values make it a key place for both worship and cultural exchange. Whether you’re visiting for spiritual reasons or to explore Islamic heritage in China, Hefei Mosque offers a welcoming environment for all.