Chinese Authorities Complete "Sinicization" of Doudian Mosque in Beijing
The mosque, considered the largest Arab-style mosque in northern China, was reopened to visitors in mid-August 2023.
Beijing, China - The process of "Sinicization" of the Doudian Mosque in Beijing, which began in August 2022, was completed in April 2023, according to recent reports by Bitter Winter.
The mosque, considered the largest Arab-style mosque in northern China, was reopened to visitors in mid-August 2023.
While the overall structure of the mosque, its murals depicting Mecca, and the interior worship hall remain unchanged, the originally designed Arabic-style arcades have been transformed into square arcades.
Additionally, two moonlit towers to the north and south of the worship hall were demolished, and the Arab-style dome was replaced by five Chinese-style white round spires.
These newly constructed spires feature traditional Chinese designs such as mortise and tenon construction, auspicious cloud patterns, and Chinese knot patterns.
They also display propaganda related to "socialist core values" and slogans promoting the Sinicization of religion.
The Doudian Mosque's "Sinicization" includes the removal of Arab-style architectural elements and the replacement of its dome with Chinese-style spires. The renovations also incorporate propaganda promoting "socialist core values." Source: "Sing Tao Daily."
Notably, the promotional video within the public exhibition hall still showcases the mosque's pre-Sinicization appearance, describing it as a symbol of national unity and a display window for foreigners.
However, a source in Beijing's Doudian village has confirmed the report, noting that the mosque was opened to tourists in mid-August, requiring visitors to register their ID cards for entry. Additionally, surveillance cameras have been installed inside the mosque.
Furthermore, reports indicate that the Songyu Mosque in Beijing's Panjiayuan area has also undergone "Sinicization."
The mosque's Arabic-style minaret, dome, and star and moon symbols have been replaced with Chinese-style features.
Songyu Mosque, before and after "Sinicization." Source: Weibo.
While exact dates for the Songyu Mosque's "Sinicization" could not be independently verified, it is believed to have taken place between 2022 and June 2023.
The Chinese Communist Party's campaign to "Sinicize" Islam has drawn international attention and condemnation from human rights organisations. It has also led to efforts to suppress news coverage and reporting on this issue within China.
Despite international concerns over religious freedom, pro-CCP netizens and self-publishing outlets in China often view the "Sinicization" of mosques as a positive development, providing a unique window into the state of religious liberty for Muslims in China.
*"Bitter Winter" is an online magazine that covers religious liberty and human rights in China.