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Zhengzhou Beida Mosque is located on Mosque Street in Guancheng Hui District, Zhengzhou, near the Xingyue Residential Community. Built in the late Yuan and early Ming dynasties, it is the earliest and largest Islamic mosque in Zhengzhou and is considered the birthplace of Islam in the city.
The mosque is built in the traditional Chinese palace style, with two courtyards facing each other. It comprises a main gate, a minaret, a main hall, north and south lecture halls, bathrooms, and a funeral parlor. The main gate is three bays wide and two bays deep, with a single-eaved hip roof covered in gray tubular tiles. The ridge features a lotus relief, and the front of the gables is decorated with cloud disks. The eaves are decorated with brackets (one bucket and two liters).
The main hall, also known as the prayer hall, is five bays wide and four bays deep. It features a curved roof, a front hall, a rear hall, and a hipped-roofed cellar, accommodating over 500 people for worship. The temple houses two copper incense burners from the Xuande reign of the Ming Dynasty, 16 large and small inscribed steles from the Qing Dynasty, and two centuries-old locust trees.
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The Beida Mosque, built in the early 20th century, is one of the largest and most significant mosques in Zhengzhou. It represents the cultural integration of Islam within Chinese society, specifically in Henan Province. The mosque serves as a place of worship and community gathering for the local Muslim population.
The Beida Mosque is located in the center of Zhengzhou. You can reach it by taxi, or public bus. Walking from the city center is also feasible as it is centrally located.
The mosque is open to visitors daily, but it’s best to visit outside of prayer times to fully explore the architecture. Early mornings or late afternoons offer a more peaceful experience.
There is no entrance fee to visit the Beida Mosque, but donations are appreciated. No advance ticket purchase is necessary for general visits.
No booking is required for general visits. If you're attending a special event or religious ceremony, it’s advisable to check for any registration or requirements in advance.
It typically takes about 30 minutes to an hour to explore the mosque and its surrounding area, depending on your interest in Islamic architecture and the local community.
Guided tours are not typically offered, but local volunteers or staff can provide informal explanations. Most information is in Chinese, but English-speaking guides may be available if arranged in advance.
The best photography spots are near the entrance, where you can capture the mosque’s grand facade. The inner courtyard also provides a peaceful setting for photos.
Start with the main prayer hall, then proceed to the courtyard. Spend some time observing the architectural details before exploring the surrounding area for a broader cultural context.
Night visits are generally not available. However, the mosque may host special events or prayers during Islamic holidays, which could be a unique experience.
The mosque is usually not crowded except during prayer times, particularly on Fridays. Visiting during the weekdays or early in the morning is ideal for avoiding crowds.
The mosque is accessible to elderly and children, though some areas may require walking through uneven surfaces. Disabled access might be limited, depending on the layout.
Cash is usually preferred for donations, but mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are accepted.
There are several restaurants nearby offering Chinese and local cuisine, including halal options. A variety of cafes are also available for a quick snack or drink.
Yes, there are halal restaurants nearby, offering traditional dishes for Muslim visitors. Vegetarian options are also available in many local restaurants.
There are several hotels within a short distance from the mosque, ranging from budget to more luxurious options. The Zhengzhou city center has a wide variety of accommodations.
There are no souvenir shops directly inside the mosque, but nearby markets sell traditional Islamic goods, such as prayer mats, books, and Islamic art.
After visiting the mosque, you can take a taxi or public transport to nearby attractions or head back to the city center. Zhengzhou’s main train station and airport are easily accessible from here.
