Traditionally Founded in the 7th Century — the Oldest Surviving Mosque in China

I'm Hesham, living in China since 2019. Huaisheng Mosque (also called the "Lighthouse Mosque" for its minaret) is traditionally attributed to Sa'd ibn Abi Waqqas, the revered companion of the Prophet, who arrived in Guangzhou around the 7th century AD as an envoy to promote cultural and religious exchange, and received imperial permission to build the mosque. The name "Huaisheng" means "cherishing the sage" — honoring Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. It's considered one of China's four great ancient mosques (alongside Xianhe Mosque in Yangzhou, Qingjing Mosque in Quanzhou, and Phoenix Mosque in Hangzhou), and is over 1,300 years old.

Quick Answer

Huaisheng Mosque is traditionally attributed to the 7th century AD and the companion Sa'd ibn Abi Waqqas — the oldest surviving mosque in China, with the cylindrical 36m Guangta minaret that once served as a lighthouse guiding Arab merchant ships. Entry is free, daily 8:30am-5pm.

🕌 Oldest surviving mosque in China💰 Free entry📏 36m Guangta minaret

The Guangta Minaret: A Lighthouse for Merchant Ships

The mosque's standout feature is its cylindrical minaret, built of blue brick, standing about 36 meters tall — the oldest freestanding minaret in China. It was historically used as a lighthouse guiding Arab merchant ships arriving at the port of Guangzhou. The mosque was damaged by fire in the late Tang and Song dynasties, and was rebuilt during the Yuan dynasty (1271-1368) under the patronage of Muslim officials at the imperial court.

The gate of Huaisheng Mosque and the Guangta minaret in Guangzhou, historic photograph

The Real Visiting Rules

The address is No. 56 Guangta Road, Yuexiu District. The mosque is open daily 8:30am-5pm, and entry is completely free. Non-Muslims can visit the courtyard and exterior architecture, but entry to the prayer hall itself is generally reserved for Muslims — dress modestly (covering shoulders and knees) out of respect for the site. Plan for one to two hours.

💡 Tip from experience: This is still an active mosque with daily prayers, not just a tourist site — visit respectfully, and avoid prayer times if you want to take photos quietly.

Huaisheng Mosque Quick Summary

Traditional founding: 7th century AD, by Sa'd ibn Abi Waqqas
Guangta minaret: 36m, the oldest freestanding minaret in China
Entry: free | Hours: 8:30am-5pm
Address: 56 Guangta Road, Yuexiu District

Planning a Trip to Guangzhou?

I'm Hesham, living in China since 2019. Message me on WhatsApp and I'll build a visit to Huaisheng Mosque into your day in Guangzhou, or visit the custom trip planning page.