[2025 Lanzhou Attraction] Travel Guide for Lanzhou Nanguan Grand Mosque (Updated Jun)

The Nanguan National Flavor Street in Lanzhou has been a commercial market where various ethnic cultures have blended for hundreds of years. It is also a place where all ethnic flavors from the north and south are gathered, except for the halal ones. . Strolling along this pedestrian street that embodies the cultural atmosphere and customs of various ethnic groups in the Northwest, it was worth the trip recommended by a friend. . It is better than Zhengning Road Night Market. Take a leisurely stroll along the short 300-meter pedestrian street. . Slowly savoring the various flavors, two hours is not too much, and it is also a fun slow life with a few friends drinking and chatting, tasting the grilled or fried dishes as you like. . It is also a scene of Lanzhou's nightlife. #gourmet food

#cityplaybook Lanzhou, the capital of Gansu Province in northwest China, is home to a vibrant Muslim community, primarily consisting of the Hui and Dongxiang ethnic groups. The city boasts several historic and culturally significant mosques that serve as both places of worship and centers of Islamic culture. This guide highlights some of the most notable mosques in Lanzhou, offering insights into their history, architecture, and significance. 1. Xiguan Mosque (西关清真寺) One of the most famous mosques in Lanzhou, Xiguan Mosque is located in the city center and serves as a key religious and cultural hub for the Muslim community. Built during the Ming Dynasty (1368–1644), it features a blend of traditional Chinese and Islamic architectural styles. The mosque has a large prayer hall, a towering minaret, and intricate Arabic calligraphy adorning its walls. Xiguan Mosque is particularly busy during Islamic festivals such as Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha, attracting thousands of worshippers. Non-Muslim visitors are welcome to explore the outer areas, though entry to the main prayer hall may be restricted during prayer times. 2. South Mosque (南关清真寺) Located in Lanzhou’s Chengguan District, South Mosque is another important Islamic site with a history dating back to the Qing Dynasty (1644–1912). The mosque underwent renovations in recent years, preserving its traditional courtyard layout while incorporating modern facilities. South Mosque is known for its peaceful atmosphere and active community engagement, offering religious education and charity programs. Visitors can admire its green-domed roof and Arabic inscriptions, which reflect the fusion of Chinese and Islamic artistic traditions. 3. Qiaomen Mosque (桥门清真寺) Qiaomen Mosque, situated near the Yellow River, is one of the oldest mosques in Lanzhou, believed to have been established during the Yuan Dynasty (1271–1368). Its architecture showcases a mix of Central Asian and Chinese influences, with a distinctive blue-and-white color scheme. The mosque is smaller compared to Xiguan and South Mosques but holds historical importance as a center for Islamic scholarship in the region. The surrounding area is also known for its halal food stalls, making it a great place to experience Lanzhou’s Muslim culture. 4. Donggang Mosque (东岗清真寺) Located in Lanzhou’s eastern district, Donggang Mosque is a more modern structure built to accommodate the growing Muslim population in the area. While it lacks the ancient heritage of other mosques, it plays a vital role in daily worship and community events. The mosque’s simple yet elegant design includes a white facade and a single minaret. It is particularly welcoming to visitors interested in learning about Islam in contemporary China. Explore nearby halal restaurants to enjoy Lanzhou’s famous beef noodles and other Muslim-Chinese dishes. Lanzhou’s mosques are not only places of worship but also symbols of the city’s rich Islamic heritage. Whether you are a Muslim traveler or a curious visitor, exploring these mosques offers a deeper understanding of China’s diverse religious and cultural landscape. From the historic Xiguan Mosque to the community-focused South Mosque, each site provides a unique glimpse into the spiritual life of Lanzhou’s Muslim population.

Lanzhou Nanguan Mosque has a long history, originally built during the Hongwu period of the Ming Dynasty (1368-1398). It is located in the middle section of Jiuquan Road, Chengguan District, Lanzhou City, and is one of the six most famous mosques in Lanzhou since the Ming and Qing Dynasties. This mosque is not only a place for the Hui people to conduct religious activities but also an important cultural landmark in Lanzhou City. The architectural style of the mosque combines Arabic and ethnic characteristics. It was enthusiastically rebuilt by the Muslim community in 1981. The main building of the mosque is divided into two floors: the upper floor is the main prayer hall, and the lower floor includes a small prayer hall, Imam's residence, reception room, etc. The entire architectural complex is elegant and magnificent, solemn and grand.

In the vibrant heart of Lanzhou's Nanguan district, a hidden gem awaits discovery: the Nanguan Mosque. This architectural marvel stands out with its captivating blend of styles, a testament to the rich cultural tapestry of China's northwest region. Stepping inside, visitors are struck by the fascinating contrast between the historic exterior and the modern interior. The mosque's facade whispers tales of its past, while the interior spaces embrace a serene and contemporary ambience. The main hall, bathed in natural light, offers a tranquil space for reflection and prayer. Dedicated areas cater to both spiritual growth and learning, with classrooms fostering a spirit of knowledge sharing. The mosque's unique charm lies in its architectural harmony. Traditional aesthetics seamlessly merge with Islamic influences, creating a visual delight. Beyond its religious significance, the Nanguan Mosque's location adds another layer of intrigue. Nestled amidst the bustling streets of Nanguan, it offers a haven of peace. Interestingly, the mosque shares its neighborhood with a primary school for ethnic minorities, highlighting the vibrant cultural exchange that thrives in this district. Whether seeking a moment of tranquility or a glimpse into Lanzhou's cultural heart, the Nanguan Mosque offers a unique and unforgettable experience.#visitlanzhou #nanguanmosque #兰州市南关清真大寺 #南关清真大寺

Lanzhou's Nanguan Mosque has a long history and a unique overall architectural shape, which is rare in the northwest region. The mosque is located in the ethnic flavor street in Nanguan, Lanzhou, and was built in the Ming Dynasty. The original site of the temple was outside the South Gate. During the Qianlong period of the Qing Dynasty, Nanguan Temple was relocated and rebuilt to its current location. The prayer hall of Nanguan Mosque is built in the style of an Arab mosque, imitating the Green Dome of the Rock Temple in Jerusalem and is divided into four floors. The main hall is composed of a frame of 12 reinforced concrete top columns and 24 cross beams. The mosque faces east and sits west, with the Nanguan Night Market at the entrance. As you enter the temple, the majestic green-domed hall comes into view. The building has distinct layers and the green and white tones are fresh and bright. The mosque has two courtyards, front and back, and adopts the traditional palace-style wooden structure. Lanzhou Nanguan Mosque has a gatehouse, a wake-up building, a prayer hall, a pond and other buildings in sequence. It has a compact and harmonious layout, a magnificent and solemn appearance, and a gate towering over the street. In the center is a three-story red pillar with green tiles rising into the sky, decorated with Chinese scripture couplets and plaques, which is simple and elegant. The main gate of the mosque is a traditional wooden structure with floral and brick carvings on both sides. On both sides of the gate are two four-story wooden awakening buildings facing each other, 29 meters high, with hexagonal eaves and covered with green glazed tiles. The whole building is magnificent, elegant in color, majestic and spectacular, fully demonstrating the beauty of traditional Chinese architecture. Lanzhou Nanguan Grand Mosque