The Great Mosque of Xi’an, also known as the Xi’an Mosque (西安大清真寺, 化觉巷清真大寺), is one of the oldest and most significant mosques in China. Located in the Muslim quarter of the city, the mosque was first established during the Tang Dynasty (618-907) and has undergone numerous renovations and expansions over the centuries.
One of the most striking features of the Great Mosque of Xi’an is its ornate gateway, which is decorated with intricate carvings and calligraphy. Inside the mosque, visitors can see ancient steles and inscriptions dating back to the Tang Dynasty, as well as beautiful Islamic art and calligraphy.
The mosque is an important cultural and religious site for China’s Muslim population, and it attracts both locals and tourists from around the world. It is a symbol of the long and rich history of Islam in China and a testament to the unique cultural and architectural blend that has developed over centuries of interaction between different peoples and traditions.
Table of Contents
- Basic Information
- Location and Transportation
- Highlights of Great Mosque of Xi’an
- Vlog about Xi’an Great Mosque
- Useful Tips Summarized from Reviews
- Interesting Facts about Great Mosque of Xi’an
- Attractions near Great Mosque of Xi’an
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | Approximately 1 hour |
| Opening Hours | 9.00 – 18.30 |
| Ticket Price | 25 yuan (March – November) 15 yuan (December – February of the next year) Children under 1.2 meters: free of charge No discount for senior citizens |
| Telephone Number | 0086-029-87272541 |
Location and Transportation
The Great Mosque of Xi’an is situated on Huajue Lane, which is a small alley off the bustling Muslim Quarter’s main street. The specific address is 30 Huajue Lane, Lianhu District, Xi’an, Shanxi Province. And because of its location, it is also referred to as Huajue Lane Great Mosque by the locals.
Bus:
Take bus No. 15, 32, 43, 45, 201, 215, 218, 221, 222, 251, 252, 286, 300, 604, 611, 612, 618, or 622, get off at Zhonglouxi (West of the Bell Tower), walk about 300 meters to the northwest.
Subway:
Take subway line 2, get off at Zhonglou station (Bell Tower Station 钟楼站), and walk about 200 meters to the east.
Take subway line 6, get off at Guangji Station, and walk about 150 meters to the north.
Highlights of Great Mosque of Xi’an
The Courtyard of the Mosque
The courtyard of the Great Mosque of Xi’an is a tranquil oasis located in the heart of the bustling city. Surrounded by high walls, the courtyard features traditional Chinese architecture and Islamic elements. The central area is covered with white marble and lined with lush trees and plants. Visitors can also explore the numerous pavilions and gardens within the courtyard, which offer a peaceful respite from the city’s noise and crowds.
The Prayer Hall
The prayer hall of the Great Mosque of Xi’an is a stunning example of Islamic architecture in China. Located at the back of the mosque’s central courtyard, the hall is spacious and open, with high ceilings and a serene atmosphere. The hall is divided into three sections, with the central section being the largest and most ornate. The walls are adorned with intricate calligraphy and geometric patterns, while the ceiling is decorated with colorful paintings and hanging lanterns. The hall can accommodate thousands of worshippers and is a place of deep spiritual significance for the Muslim community in Xi’an.
The Architectural Style
The Great Mosque of Xi’an is a unique and fascinating blend of Islamic and Chinese architectural styles. The mosque’s exterior is typical of traditional Chinese architecture, with a series of courtyards and pavilions leading up to the prayer hall. However, once inside the prayer hall, visitors are immersed in the intricate details and geometric patterns of Islamic design. The hall’s decorations include Arabic calligraphy, colorful tiles, and ornate wood carvings, reflecting the mosque’s long history and cultural influences.
Vlog about Xi’an Great Mosque
Useful Tips Summarized from Reviews
Dress code. Like any mosque in the world, the Great Mosque of Xi’an has its dress code. Visitors should not wear T-shirts or shorts that reveal large areas of skin. Females should especially be aware of this.
Food and belongings. According to the doctrine of Islam, pork is a kind of filthy food. So, please do not take any snacks that contain pork, like ham or roujiamo into the mosque. This kind of behavior is exceptionally disrespectful.
Friday prayer. Every Friday, there is a major prayer held in the mosque, and it can become pretty crowded. If you want to have some religious experience, you can arrange your tour on this day. But if you do not, you had better avoid it.
