Niujie Mosque

Introducing Niujie Mosque

Niujie Mosque, located on Niujie Street in Guang'anmen, Beijing, is the city's largest and oldest mosque. Facing east and west, the mosque features halls and pavilions arranged along a central axis, each clearly distinguished by its primary and secondary structures. The mosque is a unique Chinese-Islamic architectural complex, a fusion of classical Chinese palaces and Arabic mosques. The mosque's neatly maintained courtyards and antique architecture create a tranquil setting amidst the bustling city.

The main buildings include the prayer hall, moon-gazing tower, minaret, lecture hall, stele pavilion, pavilion, and ablution rooms. Muslims pray several times daily from morning till night. If you happen to arrive at the mosque during prayer time, you can witness the solemn and quiet worship of believers. The tranquility amidst the bustling city makes one feel the rich religious atmosphere and the power of devout faith even more deeply.

Climate and best time to travel

North temperate semi-humid continental monsoon climate;

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

It is recommended to play for 1 to 2 hours

Tickets

5 yuan for domestic tourists, 10 yuan for foreign tourists

Attraction opening hours

08:00～17:00

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Most Popular FAQs for Niujie Mosque

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Niujie Mosque, built in 996 AD during the Liao Dynasty, is the oldest and largest mosque in Beijing. It holds historical and cultural significance as a center of Islamic faith and culture, representing the fusion of Islamic and Chinese architectural styles. The mosque continues to be an important place of worship for Beijing's Hui Muslim community.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Niujie Mosque is located in the Niujie area of Beijing, within the Xicheng District. The easiest way to reach it is by taking the Beijing Metro Line 4 to Niujie Station, followed by a short walk to the mosque. You can also take a bus or a taxi from major landmarks like Tiananmen Square.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The mosque is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily. The best time to visit is early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday crowds. Weekdays are usually less crowded compared to weekends.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

Entrance to the mosque is free for visitors. However, donations are welcome to support the mosque’s upkeep and community activities. You can visit without the need for tickets, but it's advisable to check for any special events or prayer times that may affect visitor access.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

No advance booking is necessary for visiting the mosque. Simply arrive during operating hours. However, for special events or religious ceremonies, it's recommended to check in advance or contact the mosque directly.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

It typically takes about 1 to 1.5 hours to explore the mosque, including time for reflection and taking in the architectural details. If you're attending a prayer service, you may want to spend more time experiencing the spiritual atmosphere.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• The grand prayer hall, with its intricate wooden carvings and Islamic calligraphy.
• The tranquil courtyards and gardens, which offer a peaceful environment for visitors.
• The minaret, a striking feature of the mosque’s architecture that offers a scenic view of the surroundings.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available, though they may be limited in availability. It's best to inquire at the mosque upon arrival. English-speaking guides can provide insight into the mosque's history and cultural significance.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The mosque's exterior, especially the minaret and entrance gate, offer great photo opportunities.
• Inside the prayer hall, the wooden beams and decorative tiles make for beautiful shots.
• The courtyards are quiet and offer a peaceful backdrop for photography.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

• Start with the mosque's exterior and its architectural details.
• Proceed to the prayer hall to appreciate the grand design and spiritual significance.
• Spend time in the courtyards and gardens, reflecting on the peaceful atmosphere.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

The mosque does not typically offer night visits or light shows. However, special events or religious ceremonies may be held during certain times of the year. It’s best to check with the mosque for any scheduled activities.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The mosque can get busy during prayer times, especially on Fridays. To avoid crowds, visit in the early morning or late afternoon during weekdays, when it's typically quieter.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Basic facilities such as toilets are available. There is no restaurant or café on-site, but you can find food options nearby in the Niujie area. There are no souvenir shops inside, but you can explore local shops outside the mosque.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The mosque is generally accessible for elderly and disabled visitors. However, the area around the mosque may have some stairs, so it’s important to consider this if you are mobility-impaired.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is not typically required for entry, as the mosque is free to visit. However, donations are welcome, and mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are commonly accepted for donations.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• There are several halal restaurants near Niujie Mosque that offer traditional Chinese Muslim food, such as niangpi (cold noodles) and lamb skewers.
• Cafes and snack shops can also be found around the Niujie area, offering both local and international options.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Halal food options are readily available in the surrounding Niujie neighborhood. Vegetarian options can also be found in some of the local restaurants, particularly those catering to Muslim dietary preferences.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Hotels like the Beijing Xinyuan Hotel and the Beijing Chongwenmen Hotel are located within a short distance from the mosque.
• Budget accommodations such as guesthouses and hostels are also available in the Niujie area.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• The Beijing Capital Museum and the Taoranting Park are nearby, both worth visiting if you have more time.
• The Temple of Heaven is also a short metro ride away, making it easy to combine with a visit to Niujie Mosque.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are no souvenir shops inside the mosque, but nearby shops offer Islamic calligraphy, prayer beads, and books on Islam and Chinese Muslim culture as potential souvenirs.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

• You can take the Beijing Metro Line 4 from Niujie Station to continue your journey to other attractions.
• Alternatively, take a taxi or use ride-sharing apps to easily explore more of Beijing's cultural landmarks.