MY TRAVEL INFO: FENGHUANG MOSQUE, HANGZHOU & FUYOU ROAD MOSQUE, SHANGHAI

FENGHUANG MOSQUE, HANGZHOU

The Fenghuang Mosque (Chinese: 凤凰寺, Fènghuáng Sì), also known as the Phoenix Mosque or Great Mosque of Hangzhou, is a profoundly significant historical and religious site in Hangzhou, China. It is considered one of the four great ancient mosques along China's southeastern coast.

Historical Significance

• Dating: Its origins are believed to trace back to the Tang Dynasty (618-907 CE) or the Song Dynasty, making it one of China's oldest mosques.
• Rebuilding: The mosque was largely destroyed toward the end of the Song Dynasty but was rebuilt around 1281 CE during the Yuan Dynasty by a Persian benefactor named 'Ala' al-Din. The existing prayer hall dates from this period.
• Center of Worship: It has historically been and continues to be the central hub for Islamic worship and religious festivals in Hangzhou.
• Cultural Hub: Historical steles within the complex mention other nearby places of worship, including a Uighur mosque and a Nestorian church, highlighting Hangzhou's multicultural and cosmopolitan past, especially during the Yuan Dynasty.

Architectural Style

• The Fenghuang Mosque is a remarkable example of the Sinicization of Islamic architecture, blending traditional Chinese architectural elements with essential Islamic features.
• Name Origin: The name "Phoenix" (Fenghuang) comes from the belief that the original structure's roofline resembled a phoenix with spread wings, ready for flight.
• Three Domes: The prayer hall is famous for its unique structure, featuring three interconnected brick domes (with the central one being the largest), a construction style known as beamless.
• Chinese Influence: Externally, these domes are often concealed by traditional Chinese-style hipped roofs with upturned eaves.
• Islamic Features: Internally, the mosque retains critical Islamic elements like the Mihrab (prayer niche), which is often richly decorated with Arabic calligraphy and geometric/vegetal motifs, sometimes crafted from gilded red wood.

Location and Visitor Information

• Location: It is located on Middle Zhongshan Road in the Shangcheng District of Hangzhou, a historically important street.
• Visiting: The mosque is a functioning place of worship. While visitors are usually welcome to explore the grounds, access to the main prayer hall may be restricted, especially during prayer times. Modest dress is required.

FUYOU ROAD MOSQUE, SHANGHAI, CHINA

The Fuyou Road Mosque in Shanghai is a historic place of worship known for its traditional Chinese architecture blended with Islamic elements. It is located near the popular Yuyuan Garden and serves as a significant religious and cultural center for the local Muslim community.

Location & Access

• Address: 378 Fuyou Road, Huangpu District, Shanghai, China, 200010.
• Getting There: The mosque is easily accessible via the Shanghai Metro. Take Line 10 to Yuyuan Garden Station and use Exit 3; it is within walking distance from there.

Visitor Information

• Opening Hours: 05:00 to 21:00. Note that some sources list specific operating hours for general visiting and the mosque is an active place of worship.
• Jum'ah Prayer: Friday congregational prayers are held, with the prayer starting around 13:15 or 13:30.
• Architecture: The three-story building features a beautiful Chinese palace-style timber-framed hall building with a rectangular courtyard.
• Accessibility: It is primarily an active place of worship, but tourists are generally welcome to look around, though some areas may be off-limits.
• Amenities: Restroom facilities are available.

Nearby Attractions & Food

• Attractions: The mosque is conveniently located near the famous Yuyuan Garden and the Old City area.
• Halal Food: There are halal restaurants, such as Eli Falafel, and local Muslim food stalls within walking distance.

Further Readings:

1. Wikipedia: Islam in China
2. Wikipedia : List of Mosques in China

Compiled by:

Hj Zulheimy Maamor

Lembah Keramat, K.L

16/12/2025: 9.29 a.m