Huaisheng Mosque in Guangzhou

Huaisheng Mosque, also known as Guangta Mosque, is one of the most famous Islamic mosques in China. It is located on Guangta Road, Yuexiu District, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province. Along with Quanzhou’s Qingjing Mosque, Hangzhou’s Phoenix Mosque, and Yangzhou’s Crane Mosque, it is one of the four oldest mosques established in China after the introduction of Islam. The name “Huaisheng” means “cherishing the memory of the Prophet,” referring to the Islamic prophet Muhammad. The exact date of the mosque’s construction is unclear, but it is believed to have been established during the Tang Dynasty by an Arab Islamic preacher named Wan Gesi, who led the project, funded by Arab Muslim merchants residing in Guangzhou.

Historical Significance:

The earliest written account of the mosque is found in the travel records of the Arab traveler Suleiman from the mid-9th century, describing the Muslim life and the existence of a mosque in Guangzhou. This is likely a reference to Huaisheng Mosque. Further accounts appear in the Southern Song Dynasty, with Yue Ke’s book Tingshi, noting the existence of a prayer hall and a light tower in 1192. The mosque has undergone several renovations over the centuries, including major repairs in 1350 (Yuan Dynasty), 1467 (Ming Dynasty), 1695 (Qing Dynasty), and 1935.

Layout and Architecture:

The mosque complex consists of several structures, including the main gate, Moon Tower, ablution hall, corridors, a stone tablet pavilion, guest rooms, a prayer hall, and the iconic Light Tower. The prayer hall, the primary building, is a traditional Chinese palace-style structure with three sections, surrounded by a veranda, green glazed tiles, and a carved stone platform. The hall is simple yet solemn, with white interiors and wooden flooring. The stone railings on the platform feature intricate carvings of gourds, fans, umbrellas, and flowers.

The Light Tower and Moon Tower:

The Moon Tower is a significant feature in Islamic mosques, used to observe the lunar phases to determine prayer times, fasting, and feasts. The current four-tiered Moon Tower structure dates back to the Kangxi period of the Qing Dynasty. Next to the Moon Tower is an ancient well that is still in use today. Between the Moon Tower and the corridor is a section of the mosque’s original mud wall, embedded with seashells. This wall was built during the 1695 renovation and was rediscovered in 2007.

The Light Tower stands 36.6 meters high and is a cylindrical brick structure with a stone core and internal spiral staircase. It is crowned with a structure called “Bangke,” and the smooth exterior earned it the name “Guangta” or “Light Tower.” The tower remains one of Guangzhou’s iconic landmarks.

Cultural and Historical Importance:

Huaisheng Mosque holds immense significance for research into the history of China’s maritime trade, Islamic architecture, and cultural exchanges between China and Islamic nations. The mosque is a national cultural relic preservation unit and continues to be a valuable site for historical and cultural studies.

Entrance and Tour Experience:

The mosque is relatively small, and a tour can be completed within an hour. The entrance leads to the complex, which includes the Moon Tower, ablution hall, corridors, and the prayer hall. The quiet, clean atmosphere of the mosque offers a peaceful escape. Ancient trees and historical structures like the stone railings and women’s prayer hall evoke a sense of history and tranquility.

Ancient Architecture:

Many architectural elements, such as the stone railings and carved patterns, are remnants from the Yuan and Ming Dynasty renovations. The stone tablet pavilion on the left side of the prayer hall holds inscriptions from various historical periods, including a well-preserved tablet from 1350 commemorating the reconstruction of the mosque.

The Mosque’s Role in History:

The 8th and 9th centuries marked the peak of the Arab Empire’s expansion, with traders and travelers reaching India, China, and Southeast Asia. The Arab merchants who landed in Guangzhou left behind significant historical and cultural landmarks like Huaisheng Mosque. These ancient interactions between the Arab world and China are precursors to modern initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative.

Conclusion:

Huaisheng Mosque seamlessly blends Chinese and Islamic architectural styles, with the Light Tower standing as a symbol of Guangzhou. It serves not only as a sacred place for religious practices but also as a cultural gem in Guangzhou’s Islamic history. Walking through the mosque, one can feel the rich religious atmosphere and historical depth of this important monument.

Tips for Visitors:

• Respect religious customs and be mindful of cultural practices when visiting.
• The mosque is a protected national monument, so ensure to observe all guidelines to preserve the site.