he Kowloon Mosque and Islamic Centre, an impressive square building with a dome-shaped rooftop, stands proudly at the heart of the bustling shopping paradise on Nathan Road. Its prominence makes it impossible to overlook. Serving as both an iconic landmark and a unifying force for Hong Kong's culturally diverse city, this mosque has brought together the city's 300,000-strong Muslim population since 1896. Visitors are encouraged to step inside this welcoming chamber of worship, where they can delve into the rich history and diverse cultures of Hong Kong.

The History

Originally, the mosque was located where the current Tsim Sha Tsui Police Station stands, adjacent to the former Whitfield Barracks (now Kowloon Park). It was established by Muslim Indian soldiers who served in the British army during colonial times, providing them a place to perform their "Salat" (worship). However, due to construction work for the nearby MTR station, the original mosque suffered damage. In 1984, it was rebuilt at its present location, now equipped with a community hall capable of accommodating up to 3,500 Muslim worshippers from around the world.

ETIQUETTES OF VISITING A MOSQUE

Visitors are kindly requested to show respect upon entering this sacred space, removing their shoes at the entrance and dressing modestly. Seeking permission before exploring is recommended, although the mosque's members are generally enthusiastic about providing brief tours. The building houses prayer halls, madrassas (teaching rooms where children receive religious lessons), a library, and a community hall. Visitors are invited to join the prayers to gain an insider's perspective. It's worth noting that the prayer room on the ground floor is designated for men, while the one on the first floor is for women. As an added bonus, lucky visitors may even receive a complimentary Quran for self-learning!