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At Yongning Mosque, visitors can admire the unique blend of Islamic and local architectural styles, explore the tranquil prayer halls, and learn about the rich history of Islam in the region. It’s also a great place for photography, especially during quiet times.
Yongning Mosque is one of Kunming's largest mosques, located near the Golden Horse and Jade Rooster Archway and Nanping Pedestrian Street in the city's heart. Much of the mosque has been converted into a food court, offering halal cuisine. Originally located on the Donglai Street "Fish Market," the mosque was also known as the "Donglai Street Mosque." It was destroyed by war during the late Yuan Dynasty. It was rebuilt during the Yongli reign of the Ming Dynasty (1647-1661) and renamed the "Yongning Mosque." According to an inscription, the mosque was the largest of all the mosques in the provincial capital. Unfortunately, it was destroyed during the Qing army's suppression of the Hui uprising in 1856. The existing Yongning Mosque was rebuilt in 1898, the 24th year of the Guangxu reign of the Qing Dynasty.
The mosque is laid out as a quadrangular courtyard, with a mountain-shaped gatehouse facing north and a spacious courtyard within. The prayer hall is a pure wooden structure with a hip roof and emerald green glazed tiles. A wooden plaque with the inscription "Chaozhen Hall" hangs in the center of the hall entrance. The mosque is four bays wide and two bays deep, with through-beam beams. The interior area is approximately 200 square meters. A curved gallery presides over the hall, with paintings of the Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca adorning the walls. Opposite the hall are seven side rooms for rest and relaxation for congregants. Flanking the hall are a classroom and a meeting room. Bathrooms are located behind the meeting room. Although smaller than the mosque built during the Yongli reign, Koran education has flourished, and many imams and abbots from mosques across Yunnan have studied here.
Subtropical semi-humid monsoon climate; Yongning Mosque is a very famous mosque with unique architecture, suitable for travel in all seasons.
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Open all day
Yongning Mosque, built in the 15th century, is one of the oldest and most significant mosques in Kunming. It represents the fusion of Islamic and Yunnan architectural styles, showcasing the deep-rooted presence of Islam in the region for centuries.
Yongning Mosque is located in the heart of Kunming's old town. It is easily accessible by taxi or bus. The nearest metro station is about a 15-minute walk from the mosque.
The mosque is open for visitors daily from 8 AM to 6 PM. The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon when it’s less crowded and more peaceful.
There is no entrance fee for visiting Yongning Mosque. It is open to the public, and no ticket is required. Visitors are welcome to explore the mosque freely.
No advance booking is required for visiting the mosque, as it is a public place of worship and open to all visitors without a booking.
A visit to Yongning Mosque typically takes about 30 to 60 minutes, depending on how much time you wish to spend appreciating the architecture and learning about its history.
The main highlights include the beautifully decorated prayer hall, the intricately designed minaret, and the peaceful courtyards surrounded by lush greenery. The fusion of Islamic and local design features is particularly impressive.
Guided tours are not regularly available, but local volunteers or mosque staff may be willing to share information about the mosque’s history. Audio guides are not provided, so self-guided tours are recommended.
The best photography spots are inside the courtyard and around the prayer hall, where the intricate architectural details can be captured. The mosque’s exterior, especially during golden hour, also makes for a beautiful shot.
Start by exploring the entrance and outer courtyards. Then move into the prayer hall and take time to appreciate the architectural elements. The mosque’s interior features Islamic calligraphy and designs that are fascinating to observe.
Night visits and light shows are not available at Yongning Mosque. It’s best to visit during the day to experience the calm and spiritual atmosphere.
The mosque can get busy during prayer times, especially on Fridays. To avoid crowds, visit during weekdays, in the early morning or late afternoon.
Basic facilities like toilets are available at the mosque. There are no food or water stations on-site, so it’s recommended to bring your own. There are no souvenir shops inside the mosque.
The mosque is accessible to elderly visitors and children, but some areas may have uneven surfaces. There is no specific infrastructure for disabled visitors, so caution is advised for those with mobility issues.
No payment is required for entry, so cash or mobile payments are not necessary. However, if you purchase anything nearby, cash is commonly used in the area.
There are a number of local eateries and tea houses around the mosque. You can find traditional Yunnan cuisine, as well as international options in the nearby area.
Halal food options are available around the mosque, especially at the nearby restaurants catering to Muslim communities. Vegetarian and vegan options can also be found in the surrounding areas.
There are several hotels and guesthouses near Yongning Mosque. You can choose from budget options or mid-range accommodations, all within a short walk or taxi ride from the mosque.
Nearby attractions include the Kunming Old City, Green Lake Park, and the Yunnan Provincial Museum. These are all within a short distance and can be easily combined for a day trip.
There are small shops near the mosque that sell religious artifacts, Islamic calligraphy, and local handicrafts. You can also find traditional Yunnan tea as a popular souvenir.
Taxis, buses, and metro services are all easily accessible from the mosque to continue your journey to other parts of Kunming or nearby attractions.
