Dongguan Mosque (Xining Dongguan Great Mosque)
Qinghai Sheng
Dongguan Mosque, located in Xining, Qinghai province, is the largest mosque in the region and a significant religious and cultural landmark for Chinese Muslims. Originally constructed in 1380 during the Ming dynasty, it features a distinctive blend of Chinese Islamic architectural style with elements of Western design. The mosque covers an area of approximately 11,940 square meters and historically included colorful white arches, a green and white dome, and two tall minarets. Over centuries, it has undergone multiple renovations, especially in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, though it suffered damages due to political conflicts. The mosque has been a center of Muslim community activities and witnessed significant events, including protests in 1989 and 1993. In recent years, architectural changes have sparked discussions about cultural preservation and sinicization. Despite these challenges, Dongguan Mosque remains a vibrant place of worship and a symbol of the Islamic heritage in Qinghai, attracting many visitors interested in its unique architecture and historical importance.
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Tip: Visitors are advised to check opening hours and consider visiting outside of major prayer times to experience the mosque respectfully. Purchasing tickets or joining guided tours in advance can enhance the visit. The best time to visit is during spring and autumn when the weather in Xining is mild. Modest attire is recommended due to the mosque's religious nature. Visitors should be mindful of ongoing cultural sensitivities regarding architectural changes and respect local customs.
Interesting facts
- •Dongguan Mosque is the largest mosque in Qinghai province, covering nearly 12,000 square meters.
- •The mosque was originally built in 1380 during the Ming dynasty.
- •It has been a focal point for significant Muslim protests in 1989 and 1993.
- •The mosque's green dome and minarets, added in 2000, were removed in 2021 amid cultural and political discussions.
- •Generals Ma Qi and Ma Bufang, military governors of Qinghai, once controlled the mosque.
History
The Dongguan Mosque was built in 1380 during the Ming dynasty and originally featured traditional Islamic architectural elements such as a green and white dome and minarets.
It underwent renovations in the late 19th and early 20th centuries but was heavily damaged during political conflicts.
Throughout the 20th century, restorations continued to preserve its structure.
The mosque played a central role in local Muslim protests in 1989 and 1993, reflecting its importance to the community.
In 2000, new architectural features like the green dome and minarets were added but were removed in 2021 during a remodel, which sparked debate over cultural preservation and sinicization efforts by authorities.
Place Guide
Prayer Hall
The main prayer hall is the central place for worshippers, featuring traditional Chinese Islamic architectural elements and spacious interiors designed to accommodate large congregations.
Mosque Iwan
The mosque's iwan is an architectural feature representing the entrance and transitional space, showcasing intricate designs blending Chinese and Islamic styles.
Contact
Phone: 0971 817 7126