Explore the Dongguan Mosque in Xining

Today, we must take you to one of the most charming religious sites in Xining - the Dongguan Mosque. As one of the landmark buildings in Xining, it is not only one of the four major mosques in Northwest China, but also a vivid embodiment of Islamic culture in this land. A visit here will definitely give you an unforgettable cultural experience. Architecture When you come to the Dongguan Mosque in Xining, the first thing that will attract you is its unique architectural style. It skillfully combines the delicacy of traditional Chinese architecture with the solemnity of Islamic architecture. The main building, the prayer hall, is large in scale and imposing, and can accommodate thousands of people for prayer at the same time. The wooden structure of the hall is intricately carved, with each grain telling the story of the craftsman's craftsmanship; the brick carvings are complex, with flowers, birds, fish, and insects vividly depicted; the colorful paintings are bright and vibrant, with traditional Chinese patterns such as dragons and phoenixes, and pine cranes, complementing the Islamic elements in harmony. The hall is designed with a hip-and-gable roof, with high eaves, which makes it look solemn yet lively. The towering minaret, with its white body and green dome, rises straight into the sky, exuding a sacred aura under the blue sky and white clouds of Xining, and has become a unique sight in the city. Religious culture In the hearts of local Muslims, the Dongguan Mosque in Xining holds an irreplaceable importance. It is the core place for their daily religious activities and study of religious knowledge. The mosque houses many ancient religious relics, such as the ancient handwritten copies of the Quran, which have been washed by time, with yellowed pages that still emit the light of faith, bearing the heavy history of Islamic culture. Here, you can see Muslims devoutly performing the prayer ritual, from standing, reciting the Quran, to bowing and prostrating, each movement is filled with reverence and dedication to their faith. Talking to the imam in the mosque, you can gain an in-depth understanding of the teachings and rules of Islam, as well as its development in Xining, and feel the profoundness of religious culture. Special events Jumu'ah prayer: Every Friday, Jumu'ah is an important religious activity for Muslims. On this day, Muslims from Xining and surrounding areas gather here to attend the grand Jumu'ah prayer. The mosque is crowded, but orderly, and everyone prays and recites the Quran together under the guidance of the imam, creating a solemn and sacred atmosphere that makes one deeply feel the power of faith. Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha: These two festivals are the most important festivals in Islam, and during these times, the Dongguan Mosque is bustling with activity. The mosque is decorated with new decorations, and Muslims dress in traditional costumes, with joy on their faces. During the festival, in addition to the grand prayer ceremony, there are also wonderful religious lectures and ethnic song and dance performances, creating a strong festive atmosphere, making it an excellent opportunity to experience Islamic culture. Visiting tips Visiting route Half-day tour: After entering the mosque, first visit the prayer hall to admire its unique architectural style and learn about its importance in religious activities; then move to the relic exhibition room to view precious religious relics and classics up close; then stroll in the courtyard of the mosque to feel the peaceful and harmonious atmosphere; finally, at the souvenir shop at the exit, choose Islamic-themed souvenirs, such as exquisite Quran ornaments and ethnic-style handicrafts. One-day tour: On the basis of the half-day tour, participate in the regular guided tours in the mosque to gain an in-depth understanding of the history and culture of the Dongguan Mosque; at noon, go to a nearby halal restaurant to taste authentic Xining cuisine, such as tender and juicy hand-pulled lamb, with soft and tender meat, rich but not greasy; crispy on the outside and fragrant on the inside naan pit meat is also not to be missed; in the afternoon, stroll around the mosque, such as going to Shuijing Lane, where you can find a variety of local snacks and ethnic products, feel the local Muslim lifestyle, and buy special souvenirs. Notes Dress code: Be sure to dress appropriately when visiting, men should not wear shorts or vests, and women should avoid short skirts, shorts, and revealing clothing. It is recommended to wear long sleeves and pants to show respect. Respect religious beliefs: Keep quiet in the mosque, do not make loud noises, laugh, or play. Respect the religious beliefs and customs of Muslims, do not touch religious items at will, and do not disturb religious activities. Opening hours: Check the opening hours in advance, as the mosque may not be open to the public during religious activities. Plan your trip reasonably to avoid a wasted trip. The mystery and charm of the Dongguan Mosque in Xining are waiting for you to experience in person. Pack your bags and come here to start an in-depth dialogue with Islamic culture!