Muslim Quarter & Street Food
Street food, mosques, and a thousand years of Muslim culture in the heart of Xi'an
Intro
The Muslim Quarter (Huimin Jie) is one of the most atmospheric neighbourhoods in China. Home to Xi'an's Hui Muslim community — descendants of Arab and Persian traders who settled along the Silk Road over a thousand years ago — the quarter is a dense labyrinth of lanes packed with food stalls, mosques, souvenir shops, and the irresistible smells of lamb skewers, sesame flatbreads, and deep-fried pastries.
Best Time to Visit
Evening, from 5pm onwards, any day of the week.
Highlights
- The Great Mosque of Xi'an, hidden within the quarter's alleyways, is one of China's oldest and most beautiful mosques — built in Chinese architectural style with Arabic inscriptions. The food stalls reach peak activity after 5pm: biang biang noodles, roujiamo (Chinese burgers), lamb skewers, persimmon cakes, and pomegranate juice are the essential tastes.
Getting There
Walking distance from Xi'an Bell Tower (500 metres northwest). Metro Line 2 to Bell Tower station.
Tickets & Entry
Free to enter and explore. Great Mosque ¥25. Food costs ¥30-80 per person for a substantial eating session.
Practical Tips
The quarter is most atmospheric in the evening from about 5pm when the full complement of food stalls is operating and the neon signs illuminate the lanes. The Great Mosque is open to non-Muslim visitors (¥25, modest dress required) but closes during prayer times. Bargaining is expected at souvenir stalls but not at food stalls.
More in Xian
FAQ
Quick Facts
| Duration | 2-3 hours |
| Best time | Evening, from 5pm onwards, any day of the week. |