Jiyang Lane Mosque in Xichang, Liangshan

Overview

The Jiyang Lane Mosque (吉羊巷清真寺) is a significant Islamic mosque located in Xichang, Liangshan Prefecture, Sichuan Province, China. Built during the Yuan Dynasty (1324–1327), it is the largest mosque in the Panxi region and has been recognized as a cultural heritage site by the city of Xichang. The mosque’s original location was in the Old West Gate area (now the Xichang Shita Street Civil Servant Community), but it was later moved to its current location at Jiyang Lane in Xichang City.

  • Chinese Name: 吉羊巷清真寺
  • Location: Jiyang Lane, Xichang City, Liangshan Prefecture, Sichuan Province
  • Cultural Status: City Cultural Heritage Site
  • Land Area: Several dozen acres

History

The Jiyang Lane Mosque was first established during the Yuan Dynasty under the reign of the Taiding Emperor (1324–1327). It was funded by over 60 Hui Muslim families who had migrated to Xichang for business purposes. In 1574, during the Ming Dynasty, the mosque was relocated from its original site at Old West Gate to its current location after a land exchange with the Yu Family Temple. The former site at Old West Gate was then converted into a family temple by the Yu family.

The mosque has undergone several renovations and has grown over the centuries, making it a central religious and cultural hub for the Hui Muslim community in Xichang.

Structure and Layout

The mosque covers several dozen acres and features a traditional Islamic architectural style blended with local elements.

  • The prayer hall is spacious and can accommodate a large number of worshippers.
  • The mosque includes a variety of facilities for religious education, community gatherings, and cultural activities.
  • The design of the mosque reflects the Islamic architectural style while incorporating elements of the local Sichuan culture.

Cultural Exchange and Community

Today, the mosque is home to 7 imams and 3 teachers. The Hui Muslims in Xichang, in addition to celebrating major Chinese festivals like Spring Festival, Dragon Boat Festival, and Mid-Autumn Festival, also celebrate important Islamic holidays such as:

  • Eid al-Fitr (开斋节)
  • Mawlid al-Nabi (圣纪)
  • Eid al-Adha (古尔邦节)

These festivals are celebrated with much enthusiasm, and the mosque often invites Muslim visitors from abroad to join in the festivities, fostering cultural exchange.

Location and Transportation

Location

  • Address: Jiyang Lane, Xichang City, Liangshan Prefecture, Sichuan Province, China

How to Get There

  • By Taxi: Taxis are available in Xichang City, and you can easily reach the mosque by telling the driver “Jiyang Lane Mosque” (吉羊巷清真寺).
  • By Bus: Xichang has a public bus system with routes that pass near Jiyang Lane. Visitors can take a bus to the nearest stop and walk a short distance to the mosque.
  • Walking: The mosque is located in central Xichang, so it can be easily reached on foot from nearby attractions in the city.

Nearby Attractions

  • Xichang Qingxi Mountain: A scenic area with hiking trails and a panoramic view of Xichang City.
  • Xichang Satellite Launch Center: A major Chinese spaceport located near Xichang, offering insights into China’s space exploration efforts.

Travel Tips

  • Best Time to Visit: The mosque is open year-round, but visiting during Islamic holidays such as Eid al-Fitr or Eid al-Adha offers a unique experience with special prayers and cultural events.
  • Dress Code: Visitors should dress modestly when visiting the mosque. Women are encouraged to wear headscarves when entering the mosque, and both men and women should avoid wearing shorts or revealing clothing.
  • Respectful Behavior: As a place of worship, visitors should maintain respectful silence and behavior inside the mosque. Photography is allowed in the courtyard but should be avoided inside the prayer hall without permission.
  • Cultural Significance: For those interested in learning more about the Hui Muslim culture, the mosque offers a great opportunity to understand the local customs, religious practices, and the integration of Islam into the broader Chinese society.
  • Guided Tours: To fully appreciate the history and cultural context of the mosque, it is recommended to join a guided tour, where visitors can learn about the mosque’s origins, architecture, and its role in the community.

The Jiyang Lane Mosque is not only a significant place of worship but also a cultural bridge that connects the Hui Muslim community with the broader society of Xichang. Whether you’re visiting for spiritual reasons or cultural exploration, the mosque offers a deep insight into the local Islamic history and practices, making it an essential stop in Xichang for travelers interested in religious and cultural heritage.