Taipingfang Mosque in Suzhou
History and Overview
Taipingfang Mosque苏州太平坊清真寺, established around 1928, boasts a history of over seventy years. Initially named “Qingzhen Yixue” (Islamic Academy), the mosque was founded by Muslim communities engaged in slaughtering and transportation industries outside the city gates of Suzhou. Imam Ma Mingde led the construction efforts, with donations from Muslims in Shanghai, Nanjing, Yangzhou, and a significant contribution from Jiang Xingjie, a prominent Hui businessman from Nanjing.
Religious Activities and Historical Changes
During the early years of the People’s Republic of China up to 1957, Taipingfang Mosque continued to serve as a place of religious worship for Muslims. However, in 1958, it was repurposed for industrial use and rented out as an office by Shilu Street. In 1960, it was transformed into a private primary school.
The mosque was returned to the Suzhou Mosque Management Committee in 1982 and reopened as a place for religious activities. Since its reopening, the mosque has received multiple government grants for renovations. In 1985, a new floor was added with over 10,000 yuan in government funding. By 1995, it was included in a municipal project with a grant of 500,000 yuan for a major reconstruction, expanding the main hall to 650 square meters.
Further renovations occurred in 2001, when the Suzhou government allocated nearly one million yuan for comprehensive remodeling and internal upgrades, enhancing the mosque’s facilities and appearance. This included an extension to the main hall and new audio equipment, elevating the level of religious activities.
Since 1982, Taipingfang Mosque has become the center for Islamic activities in Suzhou, hosting Friday prayers and major festivals such as Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha. Regular attendance is around 100-200 people, with up to 1,000 during major religious festivals.
Current Operations and Services
The mosque employs three Imams responsible for ensuring the religious needs of the Muslim community. Services include slaughtering chickens and ducks, providing fresh Halal beef and poultry to local Muslims and restaurants, and handling funeral services.
The mosque’s primary source of income is donations from its congregation.
Historical Artifacts
Taipingfang Mosque houses 12 stone tablets from the Ming and Qing Dynasties. These tablets include sacred inscriptions, official notices, and records of donations for the mosque’s construction. They are valuable resources for studying the history of Islam’s introduction to Suzhou.
How to Get There
Public Transport
- Take Bus Lines 4, 5, 6, 21, 24, 73, or Metro Line 9 in Suzhou. Alight at the “Old City North Gate” stop and follow signs to the mosque.
Driving
- Taipingfang Mosque is approximately 3.9 kilometers from the Suzhou Government Office. Driving takes around 11 minutes.
Travel Tips
- Timing: Visit during Friday prayers or major Islamic festivals to experience the mosque’s vibrant community activities.
- Dress Code: Modest clothing is recommended when visiting religious sites.
- Respect: Follow local customs and regulations, and be mindful of prayer times and areas reserved for worship.
- Local Cuisine: Explore nearby Halal restaurants to enjoy traditional Islamic cuisine in Suzhou.
