Shangxilianhua Mosque in Weishan County, Dali

Basic Information

  • Chinese Name: 巍山上西莲花清真寺
  • English Name: Shangxilianhua Mosque
  • Location: Shangxilianhua, Yongjian Township, Weishan County, Dali, Yunnan Province, China
  • Address: Shangxilianhua, Yongjian Township, Weishan County, Yunnan Province

Introduction

Shangxilianhua Mosque is situated in Shangxilianhua, located in the central-southern part of Yongjian Township in Weishan County. Its exact founding date is unknown, but it has undergone destruction and reconstruction over the years, with a major expansion in 1977. The mosque’s main prayer hall features a single-eaved gable and hip roof, covering an area of 350 square meters. The entire mosque occupies approximately 4 acres with a total construction area of 1216 square meters.

Historical Background

  • Founding: The founding date is uncertain, but historical records indicate it was demolished in the 11th year of Tongzhi (同治十一年, 1872) and rebuilt in 1956. Further expansion occurred in 1977.
  • Structural Features: The mosque’s main prayer hall is characterized by a single-eaved gable and hip roof, covering 350 square meters. It includes wooden structure side rooms used as classrooms and dormitories for imams and students (满拉).

Community and Education

  • Community Details: Shangxilianhua Mosque serves 33 households with approximately 178 Hui Muslims from the Ge Dima subgroup. It has a modest community of 11 imams (阿訇) and 1 Haji (哈吉). The mosque also hosts an Arabic language school with around 30 students (满拉).

Religious Activities

  • Facilities: The mosque provides facilities for regular religious activities, fostering a community dedicated to Islamic education and practice.

Muslim Travel Tips

For Muslim travelers visiting Shangxilianhua Mosque:

  1. Prayer Facilities: The mosque offers prayer facilities suitable for visitors looking to participate in congregational prayers and experience local Islamic traditions.
  2. Dress Code: Respect local customs by dressing modestly when entering the mosque. Women should bring a headscarf for mosque visits.
  3. Respect Etiquette: Follow mosque etiquette, including removing shoes before entering prayer areas and maintaining silence during prayers.
  4. Halal Food: Seek out Halal food options in Weishan County, ensuring dietary preferences align with Islamic principles.

Getting There

Shangxilianhua Mosque is located in Shangxilianhua, Yongjian Township, Weishan County, Dali, Yunnan Province, China. It is accessible via local roads, offering convenient transportation options for visitors interested in exploring this historical and cultural site.