China Guide
The Yellow River
The Great Mosque
Opening time: Daily 8am–6pm
Price: ¥12
Address: Off Huajue Xiang, in the heart of the Muslim Quarter
The largest mosque in China, the Great Mosque was originally established in 742, then rebuilt in the Qing dynasty and heavily restored. An east– west facing complex that integrates Arabic features into a familiar Chinese design, it's a calm place, untouched by the hectic atmosphere of the streets outside. On either side of the stone arch at the entrance are two steles by two of the most famous calligraphers in China, Mi Fei of the Song dynasty and Dong Qichang of the Ming. The attractive courtyard beyond, which holds a minaret in the form of an octagonal pagoda at its centre, is lined with wooden buildings featuring abstract eave decorations – the usual figurative designs being inappropriate for a mosque. Also here are freestanding steles bearing inscriptions in Chinese, Persian and Arabic. The main prayer hall, just beyond the two fountains, has a turquoise roof and some fine carvings on the doors and eaves.