Longgang Mosque Introduction
Don't think that Islamic culture is out of reach; you can explore the beauty of foreign cultures in the Longgang area of Taoyuan. Islam, alongside Buddhism and Christianity, is one of the three major religions, accounting for one-fifth of the global population. Taiwan has at least nine mosques, with the Longgang Mosque being one of the few historic mosques in Taiwan. From the entrance gate, the main hall, to the gender-segregated prayer halls, it showcases the characteristics of Islamic culture and has become an important center for Islamic faith in northern Taiwan. The mosque is located next to the Zhongzheng Market, in the multicultural Longgang area, which is home to former residents from Yunnan and the border regions of Thailand and Myanmar who retreated to Taiwan in the mid-1950s. Many of them are Muslim believers who hoped to establish a fixed location for religious gatherings, feeling the distance to the Taipei Mosque prevented regular attendance for prayer. With the assistance of the Islamic Association, a fundraiser helped to create this center of Islamic faith - the mosque, established in the 53rd year of the Republic of China. After renovations in the 78th year, it has maintained its form to this day, becoming a center for the Islamic faith in the Taoyuan, Hsinchu, and Miaoli areas. Upon arriving at the entrance, the moon symbol, significant to Muslims, marks that you have reached Longgang Mosque. This mosque spans nearly 400 ping and can accommodate over 150 people in its prayer hall. Although it lacks extensive decorative features, it uses green, a color symbolizing freedom, perfectly embodying the peaceful nature of Muslims. Additionally, there are rooms for the Imam, offices, reception, and prayer spaces. Every Friday, the largest prayer gathering occurs, with men and women separated in different prayer halls to kneel before Allah, making it the best gathering place for the devoted believers away from home. Due to its unique historical and cultural background, the Longgang area has developed a distinctive foreign culture and cuisine. Near the mosque, you often encounter women wearing headscarves and men with small caps; when in Longgang, don’t miss out on authentic Yunnan-Myanmar-Thai cuisine. While strolling through Zhongzheng Market, you will frequently come across rice noodle shops, as well as Thai-style spicy papaya salad, handmade flaky buns, and hidden gems like Yunnan-style pancakes. If time permits, explore the market stalls—the various Yunnan-Myanmar-style preserved vegetables and sauces are surprising. There are also specialty vegetable stalls showcasing rare local vegetables such as ginger flower, water celery, and banana flowers; those interested can purchase them to create unique and flavorful dishes at home.
