Great Mosque of Xi'an
An opulent 8th-century mosque blending Chinese and Islamic architecture, offering a tranquil escape within Xi'an's vibrant Muslim Quarter.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Great Mosque of Xi'an
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An opulent 8th-century mosque blending Chinese and Islamic architecture, offering a tranquil escape within Xi'an's vibrant Muslim Quarter.
"A beautiful blend of traditional Chinese architecture and Islamic heritage, a truly remarkable place."
Respectful Attire
Dress modestly when visiting. Shoulders and knees should be covered.
Explore the Muslim Quarter
Don't miss the surrounding Muslim Quarter for authentic food and souvenirs.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Intricate Calligraphy
Mosque walls and wooden plaques
Marvel at the stunning Arabic calligraphy, including the 99 names of Allah, carved into wood plaques covering the walls.
Chinese-Islamic Architecture
Entire mosque complex
Witness a unique blend of traditional Chinese and Islamic architectural styles, a testament to centuries of cultural exchange.
Placid Gardens
Courtyards within the mosque
Find a moment of peace in the beautifully maintained courtyards, offering a serene escape from the city bustle.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Serenity
Navigating the Muslim Quarter
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Respectful Attire
Dress modestly when visiting. Shoulders and knees should be covered.
Explore the Muslim Quarter
Don't miss the surrounding Muslim Quarter for authentic food and souvenirs.
First time in Xi'an
Photography Etiquette
Be mindful of worshippers and ask permission before taking close-up photos.
Free Entry for Muslims
Muslim visitors can enter for free and perform prayers.
Discovering Xi'an: 8 Things You Can Do
Tips
from all over the internet
Respectful Attire
Dress modestly when visiting. Shoulders and knees should be covered.
Explore the Muslim Quarter
Don't miss the surrounding Muslim Quarter for authentic food and souvenirs.
Photography Etiquette
Be mindful of worshippers and ask permission before taking close-up photos.
Free Entry for Muslims
Muslim visitors can enter for free and perform prayers.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Great Mosque of Xi'an for its stunning and unique Chinese-Islamic architecture, serene gardens, and rich historical significance. Many highlight the intricate calligraphy and the peaceful atmosphere, making it a must-visit cultural and spiritual site. Some note the entrance fee for non-Muslims and the bustling nature of the surrounding Muslim Quarter.
"A Muslim pagoda in Xi'an that's a must-see. It's located in the center of the old city and is surrounded by a Muslim quarter filled with traditional restaurants and various stalls. It's wonderful to visit this place where you can taste typical food revisited with a Muslim twist, with unique aromas and flavors."
Edoardo Carta
"Great Mosque of Xi'an: A Tranquil Oasis of History and Beauty
The Great Mosque of Xi'an is a truly remarkable place, a beautiful blend of traditional Chinese architecture and Islamic heritage. Built in 742, this opulent mosque stands as a testament to the city's rich history and cultural exchange.
The architecture is stunning, with colorful buildings and intricate details that reflect both Chinese and Islamic design elements. The placid gardens offer a serene escape from the bustling city, providing a space for quiet reflection and appreciation of the mosque's beauty."
Khaled AlHouli
"I visited the Great Mosque of Xi'an in May and had the pleasure of meeting the Imam who explained its history. Some of the most memorable experiences of my life. Seeing this 1000 year old mosque standing in its historical glory and spiritual significance was an experience worth sharing. You enter the mosque by following an alleyway filled with street merchants just as it used to be, following the silk road legacy, then youre greeted with humble and local sellers at the gate. You go past the gate and youre captured in a time capsule every step you take you feel it's history. You're then met with thr marvelous minerate built in a chinese style at ground level and is around two stories high. Past that by a few steps you find the praying hall and if youre muslim you can enter it for prayer and feel the tranquil inside. The walls had the whole holy Quran carved into wood plaques that cover the whole walls. I think it's a must visit for any muslim and for non Muslims to learn about Islam in China. You can also buy souvenirs in the gate to support local merchants. It's the only place where I suggest not to haggle."
Sultan A.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Great Mosque of Xi'an is located at 30 Huajue Lane, in the heart of the Muslim Quarter. You can reach it by taxi, bus, or subway. From the subway, it's a short walk into the bustling alleys of the Muslim Quarter.
Yes, it's situated within the well-known Muslim Quarter. Follow the signs or ask locals for directions to Huajue Lane. The entrance is often preceded by street merchants.
Walking is the best way to explore the narrow alleys of the Muslim Quarter and reach the mosque. Taxis can drop you off at the edge of the quarter.
Yes, ride-sharing apps are commonly used in Xi'an and can be a convenient way to reach the vicinity of the Muslim Quarter and the Great Mosque.
The mosque is a central point within the Muslim Quarter, surrounded by numerous food stalls, souvenir shops, and other historical sites. The Drum Tower and Bell Tower are also nearby landmarks.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Non-Muslim visitors are required to pay an entrance fee. Muslims can enter for free and are welcome to perform prayers.
The mosque is generally open from morning until evening. It's advisable to check the exact hours upon arrival, as they can vary.
While the mosque has general opening hours, Muslims can visit at any time, including for prayer. Non-Muslims should adhere to the visitor hours.
Yes, modest dress is required. Ensure your shoulders and knees are covered.
Information on specific discounts is not widely available, but it's always worth inquiring at the ticket counter.
🎫 🕌 Onsite Experience
It features a unique blend of traditional Chinese architecture with Islamic elements, creating a visually stunning and historically significant site.
Photography is generally allowed, but be respectful of worshippers and avoid intrusive shots.
Yes, it is an active place of worship. Muslims are welcome to enter the prayer hall for prayer.
Visitors often highlight the intricate calligraphy, the serene gardens, and the unique Chinese-Islamic architectural fusion.
A visit can take anywhere from 1 to 2 hours, depending on how much time you spend exploring the courtyards and admiring the details.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The surrounding Muslim Quarter is famous for its diverse street food and traditional Muslim cuisine, offering unique flavors and aromas.
Yes, many stalls in the Muslim Quarter offer vegetarian dishes, often featuring local vegetables and noodles.
Look for lamb skewers, roujiamo (Chinese hamburger), and various noodle dishes. Many offer a 'Muslim twist' on classic flavors.
Food and drink are generally not permitted inside the prayer areas or main courtyards of the mosque itself. The surrounding quarter has ample dining options.
Street food and local eateries are generally affordable, offering good value for money.
📸 📸 Photography
The main prayer hall, the intricately carved wooden plaques, and the serene courtyards offer excellent photographic opportunities.
Drone photography is generally not permitted in and around religious sites to ensure the peace and privacy of worshippers.
Early morning or late afternoon light can create beautiful, atmospheric shots. Golden hour can be particularly stunning.
Be respectful of worshippers and avoid taking photos during prayer times or of individuals without their consent.
Yes, the calligraphy is a major highlight and widely photographed, but always be mindful of your surroundings.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🕌 Muslim Visitors
📸 Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Journey Through Time: History and Significance
Originally established during the Tang Dynasty, the mosque has undergone numerous renovations and expansions over the centuries, with much of the current structure dating from the Ming and Qing dynasties. It's not just a place of worship but also a cultural heritage site, representing the ethnic and religious diversity that has characterized Xi'an throughout its history.
Architectural Marvel: A Fusion of East and West
Key elements include the prayer hall, which is designed in a Chinese style with a hip-and-gable roof, and the minaret, which is a two-story structure built at ground level, also reflecting Chinese aesthetics. The walls are adorned with intricate Arabic calligraphy, featuring verses from the Quran carved into wooden plaques, a truly breathtaking sight.
The Surrounding Muslim Quarter Experience
From savory lamb skewers and roujiamo (a type of Chinese hamburger) to various noodle dishes and sweet treats, the food options are abundant and cater to diverse palates.
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