Niujie Mosque
Touring around Niujie, literally Cow Street, I was deeply attracted by the ethnic flavor it reflects.
The most eye-catching building is the Niujie Mosque. It is the oldest one in Beijing, with a history of 1000 years. Through several renovations, now it houses the Xuanwu District Islamic Association, while still serves the largest Muslim community in Beijing.
The building is a blend of both Chinese and Middle-east influences. The main room - ‘the Worshipping Hall' - is where daily Koran praying is held. Notice the two stone tablets in front of the hall: they bear the imperial orders given by a Ming emperor to renovate the mosque in 1487 and 1496.
In the backyard on the right, there are two tombs where two Persian imams are buried; one of them came to China in 1270 on a preaching mission. There is also an ancient, giant bowl, which is used to boil food during the Islamic Fast-breaking Festival.
In addition to a variety of charming halls and pavilions, beautiful flowers and plants, the mosque also offers a quiet refuge from the bustling surroundings. Moslem folks are friendly as well.
Want to get know more Moslem folks in Beijing? Come to Niujie.
