Islam in China dates back to the days of the Caliphate of Uthman ibn Affan, the third khalifa of Islam. The Caliph sent a deputation to China in 29 AH (650 CE, eighteen years after the death of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him)). The delegation was headed by Saad ibn Waqqas (buried in the city of Guanzhou), a maternal uncle of the Prophet. Saad Ibn Waaqas invited the Chinese Emperor (Yung-Wei) to embrace Islam. To show his admiration for Islam the Emperor ordered the establishment of a Mosque. Many Muslims went to China to trade, and they began to have a great economic impact and influence on the country. Muslims virtually dominated the import/export industry by the time of the Sung dynasty (960-1279 CE).

This travel study program focuses on Muslim life in contemporary China, as well as the historical legacy of Islam in China under various dynasties and with respect to cultural and religious exchanges along the Silk Road. We will learn about how Islam spread to China and nearby regions and how Muslim communities in China have functioned over the centuries. Furthermore, we will interact with Chinese Muslims in various localities and learn about their experiences in modern China. We will also learn about the history, culture, food, dress, art and architecture of China more generally. We will observe modern Chinese culture, and consider China's increasing importance in world affairs today.

Please note that this is not a deen-intensive or intensive Arabic/religious studies program. The focus is on history, culture and society, relying on the expertise of guides from the region and the lived experience of Muslims in China. The historic Muslim sites and monuments covered in this tour are beyond those covered by typical tour operators. Interaction with indigenous Muslims, religious leaders, scholars and professionals provides an experience that is not offered elsewhere. This program will give you an in-depth overview of the history of Islam in China. You will learn about the many contributions of Muslims in the growth of Islam in China. You will also capture the spirit of the times while visiting the historical monuments and learn the rich heritage from visiting the local Muslims and Mosques.

There will be brief presentations and discussions throughout the program. The main mode of learning, however, will be daily walking tours with commentary by the tour guides and other staff members, and local community members. We will watch artisans engaged in various handicrafts, visit some of the oldest masjids ever built, walk atop the Great Wall of China, visit the beautiful countryside and villages, and visit palaces and other monuments in China.

Get ready for a learning adventure of a lifetime!