Great Mosque of Xi'an
西安清真大寺
A Chinese-style mosque tucked deep within the Muslim Quarter, blending a four-courtyard Ming-era layout with Arabic calligraphy and painted decorations. It is a nationally protected monument.
The Great Mosque of Xi'an is located on Huajue Lane, northwest of the Drum Tower. Tradition says it was first built during the Tianbao era of the Tang dynasty, though most of the surviving structures date to the Hongwu era of the Ming dynasty. It is one of the largest and best-preserved mosques in China built in traditional Chinese architectural style. The complex has four courtyards, a wooden paifang gate, the Minaret (Bangke Tower), the Phoenix Pavilion, and a prayer hall. Upturned eaves and bracket sets blend with Arabic calligraphy and Islamic floral patterns, creating a unique style. Admission is about 25 yuan, and a visit takes about an hour. Non-Muslim visitors are not allowed into the prayer hall, and modest dress is expected. The entrance is hidden in a souvenir alley within the Muslim Quarter, so it can be visited along with the Muslim Quarter and the Drum Tower.
Opening hours
08:00-19:00 (some areas restricted during services)
Nearby sights
- Muslim Quarter (Beiyuanmen)
- Gao Family Courtyard
- Xi'an City God Temple
- Bell Tower and Drum Tower
- Xi'an Yisushe Qinqiang Theatre
- Sajinqiao Food Street
- Xi'an City Wall
- Xi'an Beilin Museum (Forest of Steles) & Shuyuanmen