Tuogu Mosque in Ludian County, Zhaotong

Attraction Overview

Built in Yongzheng Period (1722-1735) of Qing Dynasty, Tuogu Mosque is one of the five ancient temples and one of the ten mosques in Yunnan Province. Covering an area of 4,000 square meters, it is located about 10 kilometers east of the county seat of Ludian county.

Chinese Name: 拖姑清真寺(Pinyin: Tuogu Qingzhensi)

Best Time to Visit: All-year-round

Recommended Visiting Time: 2 Hours

Location: Tuogu Village, Taoyuan Muslim Township, Ludian County, Zhaotong City of Yunnan Province

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About Tuogu Village

Approximately 10 kilometers to the east of Ludian County is Tuogu Village of Taoyuan Muslim Township. Within the village is the Tuogu Mosque which has a history of 234 years. Tuogu is Yunnan province’s relatively large Hui ethnic community, which is a Hui autonomous township in Zhaotong Municipality. Founded in the Qing Dynasty in 1730 A.D., it was surrounded by shady trees, fields, and hills and boasted a history of more than 260 years.

History and Culture

Built in Yongzheng Period (1722-1735) of Qing Dynasty, Tuogu Mosque is one of the five ancient temples and one of the ten mosques in Yunnan Province. According to records inscribed on steles in the mosque, in 1730, Ma Lincan and Ma Linzhi led the fundraising effort to construct the Main Hall used for religious services. Since then, the complex has undergone several renovations. With a long history, it was known as the “ancestral temple” in Yunnan province. It is a Historical and Cultural Site Protected at the Provincial Level. The mosque remained undamaged from the magnitude 6.1 earthquake which struck Ludian County on 3rd August 2014.

Features of Tuogu Mosque

Covering a total area of about 4,000 square meters, Tuogu mosque is laid out in a typical Chinese garden style. It is composed of more than 30 pavilions, rooms and four courtyards, such as the Main Hall, Huanxing Pavilion, Back Hall, and wing rooms. The Main Hall is 13 meters high, 18 meters long, 15 meters wide, and is supported by 36 pillars. It can hold up to 300 people praying at the same time. The Huanxing Pavilion(唤醒楼) is exquisite and well constructed, and has become the most eye-catching part of the mosque. “Huan Xing” means “to call for the neighboring Muslims for religious service”.

With a unique style of architecture, the Tuogu Mosque is a first-class mosque in Yunnan province, second to none among the 100 mosques in Zhaotong. It amazed people with its building techniques and scientific and reasonable structure. However, the mosque has no nails, no wedges and no buckles. Surprisingly, it’s remained intact after several earthquakes.

Architectural Features

• Main Prayer Hall: The mosque features traditional Chinese Islamic architecture with elements such as pointed arches, minarets, and intricate geometric patterns. The main prayer hall is spacious, accommodating worshippers during daily prayers and religious ceremonies.
• Minaret: A distinctive minaret is part of the mosque’s structure, serving both as a symbol and as a platform for the call to prayer (Adhan).
• Courtyard: The mosque’s courtyard provides a serene environment for community activities, educational programs, and social gatherings.

Cultural Significance

Tuogu Mosque plays a vital role in preserving and promoting Islamic traditions and cultural heritage in Ludian County. It serves as a center for religious education, Quranic studies, and cultural exchange among the local Muslim population.

Educational and Cultural Activities

The mosque hosts various educational programs, including Arabic language classes, Quranic recitation sessions, and lectures on Islamic history and ethics. These activities contribute to the intellectual and spiritual growth of the community.

Community Events

Throughout the year, Tuogu Mosque organizes religious festivals, communal prayers, and social events that strengthen communal bonds and foster unity among Muslims in Ludian County. These events also provide opportunities for cultural exchange with visitors and non-Muslim residents.

Muslim Travel Tips

For Muslim travelers planning to visit Tuogu Mosque:

1. Prayer Facilities: The mosque provides facilities for daily prayers. Visitors should check prayer times and join congregational prayers for a meaningful spiritual experience.
2. Dress Code: Dress modestly and respectfully when visiting the mosque. Women are encouraged to cover their heads with a scarf, and both men and women should wear attire that reflects respect for the religious setting.
3. Etiquette: Follow mosque etiquette, such as removing shoes before entering, maintaining quiet during prayers, and respecting the sanctity of the prayer hall and courtyard.
4. Local Cuisine: Explore Halal food options around Ludian County. Yunnan offers diverse Halal dishes that reflect the local culinary traditions.

   

Getting There

Tuogu Mosque is accessible from Ludian County and nearby areas by public transportation, taxis, or private vehicles. It is advisable to plan the visit in advance, considering local transport schedules and routes.

Tuogu Mosque stands as a cultural and spiritual landmark in Ludian County, inviting visitors to experience the rich heritage of Islam in Yunnan Province.