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When you plan a trip to China, you think about temples, monasteries, and other beautiful places to explore in the country. But there’s a side of China that many people ignore, such as mosques. The first mosque in the country appeared during the Tang Dynasty between 618 and 907. Since then, many emperors and rulers have built mosques in different parts of the country. If you are eager to explore these mosques in China, you should sort your itinerary in advance. This will help make your trip smoother and more convenient.
Top 10 Mosques In China
Exploring mosques in a place like China that offers a unique experience. Keeping that in mind, you should try to visit all the popular mosques in the country.
1. Niujie Mosque
Photo: Antoine Taveneaux / Wikimedia Commons
If you are on a mission to explore the famous mosques in China, Niujie Mosque must be on your list. Located in Beijing, Niujie Mosque is the oldest mosque in the country that was built during the Liao Era. From top to bottom, the entire mosque is adorned with traditional Islamic and Chinese architectural elements. It’s not just Muslims, but people from other religions also visit the mosque to witness its beauty. While you are at the mosque, you should take the opportunity to see the intricate wooden structures and calligraphy.
Location: Xicheng District, China, 100053
Timings: 8 AM – 4 PM
2. Id Kah Mosque
Photo: N509FZ / Wikimedia Commons
When looking for Chinese mosques, you are likely to come across Id Kah Mosque, the largest mosque in Kashgar. Built by Saqsiz Mirza in 1442, this is one of the most beautiful mosques in the country as it features a strong Uyghur influence and has yellow-tiled walls. However, the impressive thing about the mosque is the giant wooden doors that welcome you at the entrance. Besides that, the mosque has a beautiful prayer hall that is supported by several carved columns. The Id Kah Mosque is not just a famous landmark, but also a significant religious site for Muslims.
Location: Kashgar, Kashgar Prefecture, China, 844000
Timings: 10:30 AM – 7 PM
3. The Great Mosque Of Xi’an
Photo: 沈澄心 / Wikimedia Commons
If you are on your way to Xi’an, make sure to add The Great Mosque to your itinerary. As one of the most popular mosques in China, The Great Mosque offers a serene experience to its visitors. As per records, the mosque was built in 742 during the Tang Dynasty. Despite being several centuries old, the mosque is in the best-preserved state and extends a warm welcome to its visitors. Once you enter the mosque, you will be stunned to see the architecture as it is a mix of both Islamic and Chinese elements. But that’s not all, the Great Mosque also has courtyards.
Location: Huajue Ln, Lian Hu Qu, Xi An Shi, Shan Xi Sheng, China
Timings: 8 AM – 7 PM
4. Kowloon Mosque And Islamic Centre
Photo: Mstyslav Chernov / Wikimedia Commons
Based in Hong Kong, the Kowloon Mosque and Islamic Centre is one of the best mosques in China that was built in 1984. Those who are looking to experience Islamic culture in the country should visit the Kowloon Mosque. Although this place is an important religious site for Muslims, it is also open for tourists, so you can visit the mosque without worries. Once you reach the mosque, you can explore the white marble façade and the minarets.
Location: Ground Floor, Kowloon Mosque And Islamic Centre, 105 Nathan Rd, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong
Timings: 11 AM – 6 PM
5. Dongguan Giant Mosque
Photo: 西安兵马俑 / Wikimedia Commons
As one of the oldest mosques in China, Dongguan Giant Mosque has been an important site of Islamic activity for several years. Built during the Ming Era, the Dongguan Mosque has been renovated quite a few times in the past. Like many other mosques in the country, Dongguan Mosque also features a mix of Chinese and Islamic elements. However, the highlights of the mosque are the domes and arches that boast intricate carvings. When visiting the Dongguan Mosque, you should take your time to explore the entire place.
Location: Xining, Qinghai, China
Timings: 8 AM – 8 PM
6. Dongsi Mosque
Photo: N509FZ / Wikimedia Commons
As the second biggest mosque in China, Dongsi Mosque offers a serene environment to pray and meditate to its visitors. For those who don’t know, Dongsi Mosque was built in 1447 during the Ming Era. Since then, the mosque has been a significant religious site for the Hui Muslim community in the country. To fully explore this mosque, you will at least need an hour to check out the beautiful architecture. The mosque features traditional Chinese and Islamic designs that make the structure look more beautiful.
Location: 13 Dongsi S St, Dongcheng, Beijing, China
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
7. Emin Minaret Su Gong Ta Mosque
Photo: Dan Lundberg / Wikimedia Commons
When you are out there to explore the famous mosques in China, you must visit the Emin Minaret Su Gong Ta Mosque in Turpan. Built in 1777 during the Qing Era, this mosque is nothing less than a masterpiece. The main highlight of this place is the 144-foot tower, which happens to be the tallest in the country. Another interesting thing about the mosque is that it is entirely made of yellow and brown bricks. From the geometric patterns to the intricate carvings, everything about the mosque is on point.
Location: Turpan, Xinjiang, China, near the ancient Silk Road
Timings: 8:50 AM – 8 PM
8. Weizhou Grand Mosque
Photo: Konevi / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Situated in Ningxia Province, the Weizhou Grand Mosque is one of the most stunning mosques in the country. As per reports, the mosque was constructed in the 14th century by the Ming rulers. The main purpose of visiting this mosque is to witness the beautiful architectural style that adorns its walls. Here, you will find traditional design elements that are a perfect fix of Islamic and Chinese styles. Additionally, the mosque has high towers and a large prayer hall that further elevates the beauty of the structure.
Location: Wuzhong, Ningxia, China
Timings: 8 AM – 8 PM
9. Nanguan Mosque
Photo: HMGiovanniV / Wikimedia Commons
Another mosque in China that is popular among tourists is the Nanguan Mosque. Located in Yinchuan, the Nanguan Mosque is one of the largest and oldest mosques in the country. Besides the religious significance, the mosque features a unique architecture that is likely to blow your mind. Right from the domes to the prayer halls, the entire mosque is adorned with beautiful design work. Based on reports, the mosque was built during the Ming Dynasty and is an important place of worship for Muslims. If you are interested in learning about the Muslim culture, the Nanguan Mosque could be a good starting point.
Location: Yinchuan, China
Timings: 9 AM – 7 PM
10. Chongshan Mosque
Photo: 沈澄心 / Wikimedia Commons
Covering an area of 1218 square meters, the Chongshan Mosque holds great historic and cultural significance for Muslims. It is said that the mosque was constructed in the late Qing Dynasty, but was renovated several times in history. Talking about the Chongshan Mosque, you must pay attention to the architectural style as it is one of the main attractions of this place. Besides that, the mosque offers a calm and serene environment, so worshippers can pray without disturbance.
Location: Chongshan Street, Xiangshan, Guilin, Guangxi, China
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
Mosques in China represent a rich tapestry of cultural diversity and spiritual heritage. These architectural marvels not only serve as places of worship but also as vital centers for community life and cultural exchange. By exploring their history and significance, we gain a deeper understanding of the harmonious coexistence of Islam within China’s vast landscape. However, you can make your journey more comfortable by planning your itinerary with TripXL.
Cover Photo: Ronnie Macdonald / Wikimedia Commons
