Najiahu Mosque, Yinchuan – Built in 1524

Najiahu Mosque (纳家户清真寺), established in 1524 during the Ming Dynasty, has its roots in the descendants of Saydanchiri Zhandis, a noble family from the Yuan Dynasty. After migrating from Shaanxi to Ningxia, they built this mosque, which has significant historical importance. The mosque’s current structure mainly dates back to the late Qing Dynasty and occupies an area of approximately 9,000 square meters.

This traditional courtyard-style mosque features a unique blend of Arabic and Han Tang architectural styles. It is oriented from west to east and consists of several key components, including the main prayer hall, bunkers, the Moon Viewing Tower, guest rooms, a study, and bathing facilities. The mosque follows a rectangular layout typical of ancient Chinese siheyuan (courtyard house) designs, making it crucial for studying the history of Islam’s introduction to Ningxia.

The main prayer hall covers about 1,102 square meters and is notable for its large hip roof with eaves. It features a grand entrance with five sections of hip roofs supported by elegant pillars, giving it a solemn and majestic appearance. The hall is adorned with 108 large columns that form a complex interlocking structure, supporting the soaring roof decorated with cloud-and-dragon eaves, creating an illusion of floating.

Intricate carvings embellish the hall, showcasing motifs such as double dragons playing with pearls, phoenixes greeting the sun, and peonies, which are characteristic of traditional Chinese architecture. Among the floral designs, Arabic inscriptions from the Quran are intricately carved, reflecting the mosque’s cultural fusion. The spacious interior is finished with brown wooden flooring and carpet, accommodating up to 1,500 worshippers. The rear wall of the hall features gold inscriptions and four exquisite relief sculptures, adding to its historical ambiance. Above the main entrance, five plaques gifted by prominent figures further highlight the mosque’s significance in the region.

Basic Information

Location and Transportation

Najiahu Mosque is located in Najiahu Village, Yanghe Town, Yongning County, Yinchuan City, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, China. To get there, take bus 416 and get off at Najiahu stop (纳家户站).