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Visitors to Hefei Mosque can explore its stunning architecture, admire the intricate Islamic designs, and observe the tranquil prayer rituals. The mosque is also an excellent spot for photography, particularly the prayer hall and courtyard.
Hefei Mosque is located opposite Xiaoyaojin Park and backs onto Huaihe Road Pedestrian Street. Built during the Hongwu reign of the Ming Dynasty, the mosque, also known as the Prayer Mosque, suffered damage and was expanded after the 1981 handover. It boasts comprehensive facilities, a sizable scale, and a sleek, beautiful structure. The mosque covers a total area of 1,500 square meters, with a two-story building and a 160-square-meter main hall. The building is in Arabic style and houses one imam, two mullahs, and ten school directors. The mosque houses 30 volumes of Arabic Buddhist scriptures. Currently, there are 3,000 Hui households with a population of over 10,000, all of whom are Hui people. They worship the Gedimu.
Since its opening in 1982, the mosque has received 5,000 visitors and worshippers every month, becoming an important venue for Hefei Muslims to conduct religious and cultural exchanges with the domestic and global communities, and has established deep friendships and connections with many foreign religious figures.
The current head imam, Xu Zhihai, is 67 years old. Born into a family of imams, he is erudite, proficient in Arabic, and a master of scholarship. He has trained hundreds of students and continues to tirelessly strive for religious causes. He currently serves as a member of the Standing Committee of the Anhui Provincial People's Congress, a member of the Standing Committee of the Hefei Municipal CPPCC, and Secretary-General of the Provincial Islamic Association.
Hefei Mosque is located at 27 Shouchun Road, Hefei City, Anhui Province, enjoying a subtropical monsoon climate. The mosque is situated in Lizhi Lane, Dadongmen. It borders Shouchun Road to the north and Huaihe Road to the south, facing the Mingjiao Temple. It is a place where Muslims receive religious instruction and gather for worship, making it a suitable destination for all seasons.
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Hefei Mosque, one of the oldest mosques in Anhui Province, plays a central role in the Muslim community of Hefei. It showcases traditional Islamic architecture and serves as a spiritual hub for local worshippers.
The mosque is located in the heart of Hefei, easily accessible by taxi or public transportation. A bus station is nearby, and it’s a short walk from the city's central areas.
The mosque is open daily, but it's best visited outside prayer times for a more relaxed experience. Early mornings and late afternoons are ideal for photography and sightseeing.
Entry is generally free, though donations are encouraged. There are no formal ticketing systems; visitors are welcome to walk in during opening hours.
No advance booking is required for visiting the mosque. Visitors can walk in directly during regular hours.
Exploring the mosque typically takes around 30 minutes to an hour, depending on whether you wish to attend a prayer session or spend more time in the courtyard.
Key highlights include the prayer hall, the inner courtyard, and the intricately decorated minaret. The surrounding gardens are also peaceful and photogenic.
Guided tours may be available by appointment, though they are usually in Chinese. Audio guides are not typically offered, but local guides may assist in English if requested in advance.
The best photography spots are inside the prayer hall, especially during the golden hour, and the mosque’s outer courtyard, which offers a beautiful view of the mosque’s architecture and gardens.
Start at the main entrance and explore the courtyard first, then enter the prayer hall. Spend time admiring the architecture and details before leaving via the side gates for a more serene exit.
Night visits are not generally available, and there are no light shows. The mosque is primarily a place of worship and reflection, with most visitors arriving during the day.
The mosque can be moderately busy during prayer times. For a quieter experience, visit during mid-morning or late afternoon on weekdays.
Basic facilities such as restrooms are available. There are no food or water services inside the mosque, but local eateries can be found nearby.
The mosque has some steps and uneven paths, making it difficult for those with mobility issues. Elderly visitors and children can still enjoy the courtyard and surrounding areas, but should be mindful of uneven terrain inside the mosque.
Cash is commonly used for donations at the mosque, although some vendors around the area may accept mobile payments or cards.
There are several local restaurants and cafes nearby offering traditional Anhui cuisine. Popular choices include noodle shops and tea houses.
Halal food options are available in the surrounding area, particularly in restaurants catering to the Muslim community. Vegetarian dishes are also common in many local eateries.
There are a variety of hotels near Hefei Mosque, ranging from budget accommodations to more luxurious options. Most are within a short walking distance from the mosque.
Nearby attractions include the Hefei Swan Lake and the Anhui Provincial Museum, both of which are easily accessible and can be combined in a day trip.
Souvenir shops around the mosque offer Islamic artifacts, prayer rugs, and local crafts. Typical souvenirs include decorative items and local Anhui snacks.
After visiting the mosque, taxis, buses, or walking are good options for continuing your trip to nearby attractions like Swan Lake or the Provincial Museum.
