Qingjing Mosque

Introducing Qingjing Mosque
Qingjing Mosque, also known as Ashab Mosque, is located on Tumen Street in Quanzhou. Qingjing Mosque was originally built in 1009 AD (400 AH) during the Northern Song Dynasty (960-1127) and is the oldest extant Islamic structure in China.

Covering an area of 2,184 square meters, the mosque is constructed entirely of stone and modeled after the Islamic prayer hall in Damascus, Syria. The main surviving structures include the gatehouse, the prayer hall, and the Mingshan Hall. It is considered one of the four great ancient mosques of China, along with Xianhe Mosque in Yangzhou, Huaisheng Mosque in Guangzhou, and Phoenix Mosque in Hangzhou. Its construction bears witness to Quanzhou’s history of overseas exchange and continues to stand as a testament to the city’s rich multicultural past.

Qingjing Mosque Fast Facts
• AKA: Qingjing Masjid, Ashab Mosque
• Chinese Name: Qīng Jìng Sì 清净寺
• Best Time to Visit: All year around
• Recommended Visiting Hours: 1 - 2 x hours
• Things to Do: Islamic Culture; Architecture
• Opening Hours: Daily, Fajr to Isha (Muslims); 9:00 – 17:00 (general public).
• Entrance Fee: Free
• Address: 108 Tumen Street, Licheng District, Quanzhou, Fujian Province

What to Expect at the Qingjing Mosque
Step back in time and immerse yourself in the grandeur of a millennium-old mosque, a living testament to history and architectural brilliance. If the whispers of ancient stones and the artistry of ages past ignite your curiosity, this sanctuary – among China’s oldest – promises an unforgettable journey.

The Moon Viewing Platform
The Moon Viewing Platform (Wangyuetai, 望月台) is used to observe the new moon, which determines the beginning and end of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan. The Imam (religious leader) traditionally leads congregation members in this important observation. Reflecting the influence of traditional Chinese culture, the platform incorporates Chinese architectural elements and symbolism. Along the top of the east, west, and north walls are 24 battlements shaped like the Chinese character ‘Hui’ (回). These resemble small arched windows and symbolize the 24 solar terms of the Chinese agricultural calendar, representing the changing seasons. At each of the platform’s four corners stand slender and uniquely designed Islamic-style minarets, creating a distinctive architectural blend of Chinese and Islamic styles.

The Prayer Hall
The Prayer Hall, a dedicated sanctuary for the worship of Allah, encompasses approximately 600 square meters. Quranic verses in classical Arabic script adorn the hall’s architectural elements, including the lintel, mihrab, niches, and even the exterior window sills. This pervasive calligraphy creates an atmosphere of reverence and peace, guiding worshippers towards the Qibla and radiating a sense of devotion.

How to Get to Qingjing Mosque
• By Bus: Take bus 14 to Guandimiao (Guandi Temple) Station.