Traveler Description
Dating back to the Ming period, this mosque features inner courtyards that bear more of a resemblance to a Chinese temple.


Traveler Reviews

A Chinese style mosque
Reviewed by A TripAdvisor Member on Sep 10, 2008


We entered the mosque via the busy bazaar that surrounds it. It really was a relief to get away from the noise and smell of that area and into the clean and calm mosque. At first it almost looks like some sort of Buddhist or Confucian temple, or even some sort of park, rather than a mosque. But when one studies the various buildings and status it suddenly becomes clear that the writing is in Arabic and not in Chinese. Non-Muslims have access to all area except the mosque itself which is only open to Muslims that have come to worship.

Tranquil and fascinating
Reviewed by A TripAdvisor Member on May 27, 2008


This is a beautiful mosque. It was fascinating to see the influence of Islam in China, which is not the first thought for a Westerner (Islam usually is associated with Middle East or the 'Stans). The mix of Chinese and Islamic art is also a wonderful sight. The mosque is tranquil and is an excellent place to spend some time and learn something new. The area around it is great as well - loads of shops, interesting (and delicious) food stalls and friendly people.

Beautiful but avoid going there at noon!
Reviewed by A TripAdvisor Member on Jan 4, 2008


i recently visited the Xian Great Mosque. The arquitecture is amazing and the courtyards are very charming. However, be aware that around noon, locals kill sheep and skin the dead animals in the courtyards. This also happens in the open, on the streets onf the Muslim Quarter. So avoid visits around this hour.

Very interesting sight in Xian
Reviewed by A TripAdvisor Member on Jan 3, 2007


The mosque is located in Xian's muslim quarter, which is well worth a visit only if to sample very tasty Chinese Muslim cuisine. For those uninitiated in the multiculturalism of China's past, it's a fantastic place to see. And it's a welcome respite from Xian, which is not the world's prettiest city. Seeing the call to prayer is interesting, but be aware that you cannot enter the main mosque building during prayer, and Western women should dress modestly to avoid stares.