Id Kah Mosque

艾提尕尔清真寺

China's largest mosque. Its yellow gatehouse and square are Kashgar landmarks, and tens of thousands of Muslims pray here during festivals.

The Id Kah Mosque sits on the west side of Id Kah Square in the center of Kashgar Old City. It was first built in 1442 and has been expanded over time into today's mosque, covering about 16,000 square meters and able to hold tens of thousands of worshippers, the largest mosque in China. The main gate is a tall gatehouse built of yellow brick and decorated with white patterns. Two minarets, each about 18 meters tall, stand on either side. Beyond the gatehouse lies a courtyard planted with poplar and mulberry trees, and at its far end is the prayer hall, supported by 140 green wooden pillars. Inside, the painted coffered ceiling and carpets are simple and dignified. The square in front of the mosque is Kashgar's 'city living room.' Every year on the morning of Kurban Festival (Festival of Sacrifice), tens of thousands of Muslims gather here for communal prayer. Afterward, men dance the sama dance in the square, making it the most spectacular folk scene in Kashgar.

Admission is about 45 yuan. The mosque is open to tourists outside prayer times, and a visit takes 30 to 45 minutes. Visits are suspended during the five daily prayers, so check the schedule posted at the entrance. Visitor notes: you must remove your shoes before entering, shorts, miniskirts and sleeveless tops are not allowed, and women are advised to cover their heads with a scarf. Do not walk in front of worshippers or photograph them. The east zone of the old city and the night market are right around the square, so you can visit them together. In the evening, when the sunset turns the gatehouse golden, is the best time for photos.

Id Kah Mosque

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