Yudai Bridge Mosque in Xining

Yudai Bridge Mosque西宁市玉带桥清真寺 is one of the historic mosques in Xining. Originally established during the Ming Hongwu period, the mosque covers over 400 square meters and features typical Islamic architectural style. The newly rebuilt mosque showcases a blend of Chinese and Arabic architectural styles, with its two-story prayer hall being spacious and grand.

Historical Development

  • Initial Construction: The mosque was originally built during the Ming Hongwu period (around 1530 AD).
  • Reconstruction: In 1933 (the 22nd year of the Republic of China), the mosque was rebuilt to approximately 100 square meters. In 1980, it was reconstructed again with funds raised by the Muslim community, expanding to 400 square meters.
  • Recent Rebuild: In 2006, the mosque underwent a major reconstruction, expanding to a total area of 3,150 square meters.

Scale and Structure

  • Location: The mosque is situated at 24 Dazhong Street, Chengdong District, Xining, adjacent to Yudai Bridge in Wayaogou. It is named after its proximity to the bridge.
  • Main Hall: The largest structure in the mosque, the main prayer hall, is designed in the shape of a phoenix with wings spread. It features brick and wood construction and reflects ancient Chinese palace architecture. The hall covers an area of 1,102 square meters and can accommodate up to 3,000 worshippers. It is topped with a Tibetan-style gilded pagoda donated by monks from Labrang Monastery in Gansu, a unique feature among Chinese mosques. The 18 large columns inside the hall were gifted by You Ning Temple.

Architectural Features

  • Design: The mosque’s main prayer hall, while slightly tilted, is designed to be functional and impressive. The hall’s design blends traditional Chinese palace architecture with Islamic elements, featuring a grand and spacious interior.

Educational and Cultural Contributions

  • Cultural Mission: Yudai Bridge Mosque has long been dedicated to fostering Islamic cultural heritage, adhering to a people-centered philosophy. It boasts rich educational experience and strong teaching staff. The mosque actively combines traditional religious education with modern teaching methods, striving to contribute to the development of Muslim education in China.

Transportation

  • By Bus:
    • From Xining Railway Station, take bus No. 33 (3 stops), No. 1 (4 stops), or No. 103 (4 stops) to Dongshaomen Station. From there, walk 183 meters to the mosque.