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The Islamic City was built by combining the local unique natural environment and the Hui ethnic group's living conditions. It covers an area of 334 mu, of which 100 mu is water area and the central axis is 1,000 meters long. In addition to the entrance square area, there are also religious and cultural display areas, demonstration areas, water amusement areas and leisure shopping areas distributed in a north-south spatial series. "One axis and five areas" is the overall layout of the Islamic City.
Islam believes in the Oneness of God, opposes idolatry, and forbids using objects as metaphors for God. Believers worship God through five devout prayers daily, from dawn to dusk, known as the "Five Prayers." On Fridays, believers gather in mosques for a prayer known as "Jumr," also known as "Friday." Before prayers, everyone must bathe, performing ghusl and ablution regularly. Therefore, the teapot used for bathing has become a common symbol of Islamic faith.
Dry monsoon climate; Islamic Customs City is the most distinctive ethnic tourist attraction in Southwest China, integrating ethnic culture, marriage culture, food culture, and clothing culture. It is suitable for travel in all seasons.
Entrance square area, religious and cultural display area, demonstration area, water recreation area and leisure shopping area;
It is recommended to play for 3-4 hours
Free and open
Open all day
Islamic City in Zhaotong, Yunnan, is a historic site that reflects the influence of Islamic culture in southern China. It is home to one of the oldest and most prominent Muslim communities in the region, with architecture and cultural practices that blend Islamic and local Yunnan traditions. The city is important for understanding the integration of Islam into Chinese society over centuries.
Islamic City is located in Zhaotong, Yunnan Province. The most convenient way to reach the city is by taxi or private car from Zhaotong's city center. Buses are available from nearby cities, but they may take longer. There is no direct metro service to the city.
Islamic City is an open, public space, so it does not have specific opening hours. The best time to visit is during the cooler months, from spring to autumn, as summer can be quite hot. Religious festivals, particularly during Ramadan or Eid, are also excellent times to experience local culture.
There is no entrance fee for visiting Islamic City. Access is free for all visitors. However, some cultural events or performances may require a separate ticket, which can typically be purchased on-site.
No booking is required for general visits. If you wish to attend a special event or cultural performance, it is advisable to book tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons or religious holidays, 1-2 weeks in advance.
You can explore Islamic City in 2 to 3 hours. This includes visiting the mosque, walking through the city’s main streets, and exploring cultural sites. For those attending festivals or cultural events, additional time may be needed.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin. English-speaking guides may also be available, but it is recommended to book in advance. Audio guides are not generally offered.
The best photography spots include the mosque, where you can capture the blend of Islamic and local Yunnan architectural styles. The surrounding streets, especially during festivals, provide colorful and vibrant scenes for photography.
Start by visiting the mosque and the Islamic cultural center to get an understanding of the city’s history and culture. Then, explore the nearby streets, markets, and local eateries for a complete cultural experience. If visiting during a festival, follow the event itinerary for special ceremonies.
Islamic City does not offer night visits or light shows. However, the city is vibrant during evening prayers, and visitors can witness the local Islamic community in action. Special tours during festivals may be available upon request.
The site can get crowded during religious holidays or weekends. The least crowded times to visit are weekday mornings, especially outside of major holidays like Ramadan or Eid.
There are public toilets available around the city. Small shops and food stalls sell local snacks and refreshments. Rest areas are minimal, so it is advisable to take breaks at nearby cafes or restaurants.
Islamic City is relatively accessible for elderly and children, but the terrain may be uneven in some areas. Disabled visitors may find it challenging to navigate through crowded or narrow streets. It’s best to plan accordingly for comfort.
Cash is commonly used in Islamic City. However, mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted in shops and markets. Credit cards are rarely accepted, so it’s advisable to bring cash or use mobile payment options.
Halal food is the primary food option in Islamic City due to the local Muslim population. Vegetarian and vegan options are available, though they may be limited to certain restaurants. It’s best to check with the restaurant staff about specific dietary preferences.
Yes, there are small souvenir shops in and around Islamic City. Typical souvenirs include Islamic calligraphy, prayer beads, local handicrafts, and Muslim clothing such as headscarves or caps.
