Huaisheng Mosque (Guangta)
怀圣寺光塔
One of China's earliest mosques, said to have been built in the Tang dynasty. Its Guangta (Light Tower) once guided night-sailing ships on the Pearl River and bears witness to the Maritime Silk Road.
Huaisheng Mosque is on Guangta Road in Yuexiu District. It is said to have been built during the Tang dynasty by Arab missionaries who came to China, and it is one of the oldest surviving mosques in China. The Guangta (Light Tower) stands about 36 meters tall in a cylindrical form. In ancient times, the Pearl River shoreline was close by, and a light at the top of the tower guided ships sailing at night. It is an important witness to the Maritime Silk Road and a National Key Cultural Relics Protection Unit. Non-Muslim visitors may view the exterior during non-prayer hours and should dress modestly. It is about a 10-minute walk from Xiguankou Station on Metro Line 1. Combine it with Guangxiao Temple and Liurong Temple for an old-temple stroll.
Opening hours
Open outside prayer times (temple schedule may vary)
Nearby sights
- Temple of the Six Banyan Trees
- Guangxiao Temple
- Sacred Heart Cathedral (Shishi)
- Dafo Temple (Guangzhou)
- Beijing Road Pedestrian Street
- Nanyue King Museum – Palace Site
- Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall
- Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street