When you visit Guangzhou in Guangdong Province, China, make sure to explore the Huaisheng Mosque, the city's main mosque situated in the Yuexiu District. Also known as the Lighthouse Mosque or the Great Mosque of Canton, this official Chinese major cultural heritage site offers you a fascinating look into early Islamic history in China. While local tradition attributes its founding to Sa'd ibn Abi Waqqas in the 7th century, modern scholarship suggests it was established during the Tang or Song dynasties, with documented rebuilds occurring in 1350 and 1695 following a fire.
The focal point of your visit is the remarkable Guangta (or Kwangtah), a pointed 36-meter-tall (118 ft) two-storey minaret. Known as the "Plain Pagoda" for its minimalist, unadorned surface, this tower served as Guangzhou's tallest building until the early 20th century, functioning historically as a lighthouse, wind vane, and control tower. As you walk the grounds, you will appreciate its deep historical connections, which include serving as the 1349 burial site for Ramadan ibn Alauddin, the first named Korean Muslim.
It stands as a unique architectural landmark in the heart of the city.
What to see at Huaisheng Mosque
- Distinctive pointed 36-meter-tall minimalist minaret (Guangta)
- Recognized Chinese major cultural heritage site in Yuexiu District
- Historical architectural site rebuilt in 1350 and 1695
- Landmark that historically served as a lighthouse and wind vane
Visiting tips
You can easily reach the mosque by taking the Guangzhou Metro to Ximenkou Station and walking southeast.
How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Morning
How to get there & what’s nearby
Huaisheng Mosque is easy to reach on Guangzhou’s public transport. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Guangzhou travel guide.
See the full Guangzhou travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.