Great Mosque of Xi’an – one of China’s oldest mosques

The Great Mosque of Xi’an (西安清真大寺) is one of China’s oldest, largest, and best-preserved Islamic mosques, reflecting a unique blend of Chinese and Islamic architecture. It remains an active place of worship for Hui Muslims, a Chinese ethnic minority with Islamic heritage.

History of the Great Mosque of Xi’an

When Was It Built?

The mosque was first constructed in 742 AD during the Tang Dynasty but was later expanded in the Ming Dynasty (14th–17th centuries).

Why Was It Built?

Xi’an (then called Chang’an) was the starting point of the Silk Road, attracting traders from Persia, Central Asia, and the Middle East. Many of these traders settled in Xi’an, converted to Islam, and formed the Hui Muslim community. The Great Mosque was built as a place of worship and cultural center for them.

How Is It Different from Other Mosques?

• Unlike typical Middle Eastern mosques, the Great Mosque of Xi’an follows traditional Chinese architecture, with courtyards, wooden pagoda-style structures, and curved roofs.
• However, it retains Islamic elements, including Arabic inscriptions, Islamic calligraphy, and mihrabs (prayer niches).

What to See at the Great Mosque of Xi’an

Four Beautiful Courtyards

The mosque has four large courtyards, each with stunning gardens, stone steles, and Islamic inscriptions. The courtyards symbolize peace and harmony, reflecting a blend of Islamic and Chinese traditions.

The Wooden Archway (牌楼 – Páilóu)

• A 9-meter-high wooden gateway with a blue-tiled roof and intricate carvings.
• It serves as the main entrance and represents a fusion of Chinese and Islamic architecture.

The Phoenix Pavilion (凤凰亭 – Fènghuáng Tíng)

A unique three-story octagonal pavilion resembling a pagoda. It is believed to symbolize prosperity and peace in both Islamic and Chinese culture.

The Main Prayer Hall (大殿 – Dàdiàn)

The largest and most sacred area of the mosque, accommodating up to 1,000 worshippers. It features beautiful Arabic inscriptions, Chinese-style wooden beams, and a mihrab (prayer niche) facing Mecca.

• Only Muslims are allowed to enter the prayer hall, but visitors can admire it from outside.

Stone Steles & Calligraphy

Ancient stone inscriptions are in Arabic and Chinese, showcasing the cultural exchange between China and the Islamic world. The steles provide historical records of Islam’s development in China.

How to visit the Great Mosque of Xi’an

Location

Address: Huajue Lane, Muslim Quarter, Lianhu District, Xi’an, Shaanxi Province

Nearby Landmarks:

• Muslim Quarter (Huimin Jie) – 3-minute walk
• Bell Tower – 5-minute walk
• Drum Tower – 3-minute walk

How to get to the Great Mosque of Xi’an

By Metro

• Line 2: Get off at Zhonglou (Bell Tower) Station, Exit B. Walk 10 minutes.

By Bus: Take bus 4, 6, 7, 8, 15, 45, 201, 205, 218, or 611 to Zhonglou Xi (Bell Tower West) Stop.

By Taxi: Tell the driver “西安清真大寺 (Xī’ān Qīngzhēn Dàsì)” or “Huajue Lane”.

Opening Hours

• March – November: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM
• December – February: 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM
• Friday Prayers: Restricted access for tourists during prayer times.

Ticket Prices

• Entry Fee: ¥25
• Children under 1.2m: Free

Note: Only Muslims are allowed to enter the main prayer hall, but tourists can explore the mosque’s courtyards and architecture.

Best Time to Visit

• Spring (March–May) & Autumn (September–November): Best weather for sightseeing.
• Avoid Friday afternoons, as it’s the main prayer time for local Muslims.

Travel Tips

Respect Local Customs – The mosque is an active place of worship, so dress modestly and avoid loud noises.
Photography – Allowed in the courtyards, but not inside the prayer hall.
Best Time to Visit – Morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and better photos.
Combine with a Visit to the Muslim Quarter – The mosque is inside the Muslim Quarter, making it easy to explore both in one trip.