Sanya Huihui Mosque

Overview

The Sanya Mosque(三亚市回辉清真古寺), also known as Huihui Mosque, is a significant Islamic site located in Sanya, Hainan Province. Founded in the Ming Dynasty, it has undergone several renovations and expansions over the centuries. It is an important cultural and religious site for the Hui Muslim community in Sanya.

Historical Background

  • Establishment: The mosque was originally established in the 6th year of the Chenghua era of the Ming Dynasty (1470). It was founded by Hui Muslims who arrived from Champa (now Bình Định Province, Vietnam) and settled in the area.
  • Reconstruction: The mosque has been rebuilt and renovated several times. The original brick and tile structure was replaced with a concrete and steel construction in a unique octagonal shape. It was destroyed but rebuilt in 1982 and further expanded with a donation of 300,000 RMB from Hong Kong Muslims in 1986.

Architectural Features

  • Size: The mosque covers an area of 2.9 acres with a building area of 900 square meters. The main hall has an area of 500 square meters.
  • Design: The mosque features a blend of traditional Chinese and Western architectural styles. It includes a prayer hall, lecture hall, recitation room, bathing area, and guesthouse. The structure is known for its elegant and imposing appearance.
  • Historic Artifact: The mosque houses a notable Qing Dynasty stele from the 18th year of Qianlong (1763), known as the “Zheng Tang Jin Bei” (正堂禁碑). This stele is a rare historical artifact that provides insights into the economic life of Hainan’s Muslims during the Qing Dynasty.

Religious and Cultural Significance

  • Community: The mosque serves about 150 households, totaling 854 people, all of whom are Hui Muslims. It is an important religious center and the headquarters of the Sanya Islamic Association.
  • Visitor Attraction: The mosque’s grandeur and historical significance attract many Muslim visitors and tourists to Sanya.

How to Get There

Address: Sanya Mosque (Huihui Mosque), Huihui Village, Sanya City, Hainan Province, China

From Sanya City Center:

  1. By Taxi:
    • The mosque is approximately 6 kilometers from Sanya city center. A taxi ride should take around 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic.
  2. By Public Bus:
    • Check local bus routes for services that travel to Huihui Village or nearby areas. Local transportation may require a transfer.

From Sanya Phoenix International Airport:

  1. By Taxi:
    • The mosque is close to the airport, approximately 10 kilometers away. A taxi ride should take about 20-25 minutes.
  2. By Shuttle or Bus:
    • You can take an airport shuttle or local bus to Sanya city center and then transfer to a taxi or bus heading towards Huihui Village.

Travel Tips:

  • Language: It might be helpful to have the mosque’s address written in Chinese for easier communication with taxi drivers.
  • Local Transport: Verify bus routes and schedules in advance if you are planning to use public transportation.

The Sanya Mosque is a place of both historical and religious importance, reflecting the rich heritage of the Hui Muslim community in the region.