Beijing is a city full of culture, history, and architectural wonders. Among its many treasures are the best mosques in Beijing, which offer a chance for spiritual reflection and an insight into Beijing’s rich Islamic heritage. Whether you’re here for prayer, cultural exploration, or to enjoy the city’s diverse history, this guide will introduce you to the 10 best Mosques in Beijing you need to explore in 2025.
For foreigners visiting Beijing, you’re in for a treat. Many of these mosques welcome tourists. You can experience not just prayer, but also the city’s historical and cultural sides. Let’s dive into the 10 Best Mosques in Beijing, and discover the top mosques in Beijing for foreign visitors.
A Glimpse Into Beijing’s Hui Muslim Culture
Beijing’s Hui Muslim community is vibrant and integral to the city’s identity. Islam has been here for over a thousand years. The Niujie Mosque, built in 996, is a symbol of this long history. Over the centuries, the Muslim community has grown, with mosques spread throughout the city.
There are about 41,000 Muslims in Beijing. The Niujie area remains the heart of Beijing’s Hui Muslim community. It’s a lively neighborhood with bustling markets, halal restaurants, and local shops. But Muslims are also spread across other parts of the city. Areas like Jiaozi Hutong (教子胡同), Huashi (花市), and Madian (马甸) are home to many Muslim families.
The influence of the Hui Muslims isn’t limited to the city center. You’ll find smaller Muslim communities in suburban areas like Daxing (大兴) and Fangshan (房山) There are even two Hui ethnic townships in Tongzhou (通州) and Chaoyang （朝阳)）, where traditional Hui culture is well-preserved.
Visiting Beijing during Eid al-Fitr is a unique experience. During this time, the city’s Muslim population gathers in mosques for prayers and celebrations. It’s a lively, colorful atmosphere that shows how Islamic culture has become an important part of the city’s diverse identity.
Beijing is home to 70 mosques, and we’ve picked out the 10 Best Mosques in Beijing for you to explore. Whether you’re into architecture, history, or just want to experience the local culture, these mosques are a must-see. Each one offers something unique, so take your time, soak in the atmosphere, and enjoy the peaceful vibes they provide.
1. Niujie Mosque: A Must-Visit Historic Landmark
The Niujie Mosque (牛街清真寺) is on the top list of the Top 10 Best Mosques in Beijing. It is located in the Xicheng District, is one of the oldest mosques in Beijing. Built in 996, it’s considered the heart of the Muslim community in Beijing. The mosque blends traditional Chinese and Islamic architecture, making it an iconic Islamic site in Beijing.
Its beautiful courtyards and intricate carvings give you a glimpse into the city’s deep Islamic heritage. Whether you’re here for Islamic services or simply exploring, the Niu Jie Mosque is a must-see. If you’re looking to join Ramadan prayer services in Beijing, this mosque is perfect.
Travel Tips for Niujie Mosque
Address: 18 Niujie, Xicheng District, Beijing 北京市西城区牛街18号
How to Get There
Take Subway Line 4 or Line 6 to Caishikou Station (菜市口). From there, it’s about a 5-minute walk to the mosque.
Opening Hours and Admission
Niujie Mosque is open every day from 8 AM to 5 PM. It’s open all year round with free admission. No need to book in advance.
What to Do
The area is small but rich in history and culture. It’s a good idea to spend at least two hours here. When you enter, the first thing you’ll notice is the grand main hall, which holds the Quran, the holiest book in Islam. Then, walk along the stone-paved path to explore the courtyards. You’ll see amazing brick carvings and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Nearby Food Recommendations
The area around Niujie is full of tasty food spots and street stalls. Try some lamb skewers or other local dishes. For a sit-down meal, head to places like Jubaoyuan ( 聚宝源 ) .They offer a wide variety of delicious dishes to satisfy your cravings.
2. Dongsi Mosque: A Peaceful Escape in the Heart of the City
Tucked away in Beijing’s Dongcheng District, the Dongsi Mosque (东四清真寺)is one of the city’s four major mosques. Built in 1346 during the Yuan Dynasty, it was later rebuilt in 1447 by a military official, Chen You, with funding from the Ming Dynasty. The emperor, Jingtai, even granted it the name “Qingzhen Si” (meaning “Mosque” in Chinese). The mosque has been renovated several times, especially in the late Qing and early Republic periods, which gave it its current layout of three courtyards: front, middle, and back.
This mosque is a perfect blend of traditional Ming Dynasty architecture. The main hall is stunning, with its gold and bright colors, carved beams, and painted rafters. It can hold over 500 people for prayers at once.
The front half of the hall is made from wood, while the back features a large, domed ceiling with no columns. Inside, there are three beautiful arched doorways, with Quran verses delicately carved above them. You’ll instantly feel the peace and beauty that this mosque offers.
Travel Tips for Dongsi Mosque
Address: 13 Dongsi Nan Dajie, Dongcheng District, Beijing 北京东四南大街13号
How to Get There
The nearest subway stations are Dongsi Station (东四站) on both Line 5 and Line 6. It’s an easy ride on either line, and the mosque is just a short walk from the station. The subway is the quickest way to reach Dongsi Mosque, and it’s well-connected, making it super convenient for visitors.
What to Do
- Main Gate: As you enter, you’ll notice the royal-style entrance. It’s grand and beautifully designed, welcoming you to explore further.
- Front Courtyard: Walk through the front courtyard, and you’ll find some historic stone tablets. They’re not just cool to look at—they also tell the story of the mosque’s past.
- Middle Courtyard: This is where the main prayer hall is located. It’s large and awe-inspiring, a perfect representation of the strength of the faith it holds.
- Back Courtyard: Finally, take a leisurely stroll to the back courtyard. It’s a peaceful area to enjoy the intricate carved artwork and let your mind relax.
Opening Hours and Admission
The mosque is open every day from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM in summer and 9:00 AM to 3:30 PM in winter. No need to book ahead—just show up and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Things to Keep in Mind
- Be Quiet: Remember, this is a place of worship, so please keep noise to a minimum. No smoking or photography inside.
- Respect the Environment: Let’s keep the place clean and take care of the surroundings. It’s everyone’s responsibility to help maintain this beautiful spot.
3. Changying Mosque: A Hidden Gem in Beijing’s Suburbs
Changying Mosque (常营清真寺), located in Beijing’s suburban Chaoyang District, has a rich history that dates back to the Ming Dynasty. During the early Ming Dynasty, General Chang Yuchun led his troops to attack Beijing and stationed here. Because of this, the area became known as Changying. Most of the people in Changying were Hui Muslims, so during the reign of Emperor Wuzong (1506-1521), a mosque was built here.
But sadly, it was destroyed during the Qing Dynasty. It wasn’t until the Jiaqing Era that Qin Sanye, a local benefactor, donated funds to rebuild it. Today, Changying Mosque is the largest mosque in the suburban areas of Beijing, covering over 8,400 square meters.
In recent years, the mosque has undergone several rounds of repairs and expansion. In 2008, the Chaoyang District Government allocated funds to replace the roof tiles and repaint the interior of the main hall. These updates have helped preserve the mosque’s beauty while making it even more welcoming for visitors.
Travel Tips for Changying Mosque
Address: Changying Minzu Xincun, Chaoyang District, Beijing 北京市朝阳区常营地区常营民族新村
How to Get There
You can take Subway Line 6 to Changying Station. From there, it’s about a 15-minute walk or bike ride to the mosque. Alternatively, you can hop on Bus 364 or Bus 488, get off at Changying Lu Kou South, and then walk a short distance to the mosque.
Opening Hours and Admission
The mosque is open all day. You don’t need to buy tickets in advance, but it’s important to keep the environment peaceful. Remember, this is a place of worship, so try to keep your voice down and avoid disturbing others.
What to Do and See
When you enter the mosque, the first thing you’ll notice is the grand main hall. It’s dedicated to Islamic worship and can hold 200 to 300 people for prayer. The mosque’s design is unique, with three courtyards and the main hall facing west to east. Inside, you’ll also find a women’s prayer hall, providing a space for female worshippers.
As you explore, you’ll come across a special Hanbaiyu stone tablet from 1937, known as the “Last Words of My Mother” inscription. This tablet is notable because it’s the first one in Chaoyang District written by a woman.
Local Eats Near Changying Mosque
Once you’re done exploring the mosque, head over to the north wall of the mosque, where you’ll find a row of local snack stalls. Here, you can try some delicious local dishes, like mahjong-style pancakes, bean bubble soup, and lamb offal soup. The prices are affordable, and the food tastes incredible. It’s a great way to cap off your visit while immersing yourself in the neighborhood’s atmosphere.
4. Nanxiapo Mosque: A Hidden Gem in Beijing’s Heart
The Nanxiapo Mosque (南下坡清真寺) is one of Beijing’s most significant mosques. It was first built during the Kangxi period of the Qing Dynasty and later rebuilt in the Guangxu period with funds raised by the local Hui Muslims. This mosque isn’t just a place of worship; it also holds a deep cultural and historical significance. It’s one of the few remaining ancient buildings in the Chaoyangmen area.
What makes the Nanxiapo Mosque so special is the unique mix of traditional Chinese palace-style architecture and Arab-Islamic design.
This blend beautifully showcases the fusion of Islamic culture with traditional Chinese architecture. The main hall covers 132 square meters, with an additional 68 square meters for the north and south wings. The mosque was renovated in 1986, during which the building was repainted and restored.
Travel Tips for Nanxiapo Mosque
Address: Outside Chaoyangmen, Beijing. Specifically, it’s located 50 meters east of WanBang Commercial Building on Chaoyang West Street (near Yabao Street). 北京朝阳门外南下坡。具体位置在北京市朝阳区朝外西街万邦商贸大厦东50米（雅宝里旁）
How to Get There
Take Subway Line 2 and get off at Jianguomen Station. Exit from Exit B, then walk 500 meters north along Jianguomen North Street. After that, walk 270 meters along Yabao Road, and you’ll arrive at the mosque.
Opening Hours and Admission
- Opening hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily. It’s a good idea to arrive at least 30 minutes early to ensure you can enter smoothly.
- Admission: No need to book in advance. You can buy tickets on-site. Adult ticket is 20 RMB, while children and students get a 50% discount.
What to Do and See
- Main Hall: The main hall spans 132 square meters and includes the prayer hall, meeting hall, and kiln hall. It’s a stunning display of historic architecture.
- Long Corridor: Take a stroll down the long corridor, where you can admire the detailed murals and beautiful carvings.
- Prayer Hall: Visit the prayer hall to learn more about Islamic history and culture. The architecture and atmosphere here will leave you feeling peaceful and reflective.
- Iftar Meal: Don’t miss the chance to try some delicious iftar meals here. It’s a great way to experience local flavors and connect with the community.
5. Huashi Mosque: A Hidden Islamic Gem in Beijing
Huashi Mosque (花市清真寺) is one of the city’s most famous mosques. Built during the Yongle reign of the Ming Dynasty in 1415, it has been renovated and expanded several times over the years, resulting in its current form. The mosque spans about 2,000 square meters and features the classic Qing Dynasty architectural style. Today, it’s one of the main places for Muslim religious activities in Beijing.
But Huashi Mosque is more than just a place for prayer. It holds significant historical and cultural value. Inside the mosque, you’ll find relics like the wooden plaque from 1663 reading “Qingzhen” (meaning “pure and true”), as well as a plaque from 1787 inscribed with the words “True and Unique”.
The mosque is also home to the “two wooden beams”, which are famous for their unique function of keeping birds away. These beams are wrapped in iron, and there’s even a legend about an emperor who wanted to take them, but for various reasons, it never happened.
Travel Tips for Huashi Mosque
Address: 80 West Huashi Street, Dongcheng District, Beijing 北京市东城区西花市大街80号。
Opening Hours: The mosque is open every day for visitors to explore at your own pace.
Getting There: Take Subway Line 5, get off at Chongwenmen Station (Exit C2), and walk 730 meters to the mosque. It’s an easy walk through the vibrant neighborhood.
What to See and Do
- Main Building: The mosque’s main hall is the heart of the place, where believers gather for prayer.
- Minaret: The call to prayer tower is unique, offering a great view of the surrounding area from the top.
- Museum Room: The museum room showcases important historical artifacts, allowing visitors to experience the mosque’s deep history.
Religious Atmosphere: Strolling through the mosque, you can feel the peaceful spiritual atmosphere. You’ll hear the soothing sounds of Quran recitations, which add to the calm vibe of the place.
Nearby Eats
If you’re feeling hungry, you’re in luck! There are plenty of halal restaurants nearby offering local Muslim dishes like Beijing-style fried noodles and lamb skewers. These are perfect for those looking to taste authentic Beijing halal food after a visit.
6. Qianmen Mosque: A Historic Gem Near Tiananmen Square
The Qianmen Mosque in Beijing is one of the city’s oldest and most significant Islamic sites. Originally called the Tiaozi Hutong Mosque, it was built at the end of the Ming Dynasty. The mosque underwent two major renovations, first in 1680 during the Kangxi Era and again in 1795 during the Qianlong Era.
Its architecture is unique, following the traditional Beijing courtyard style, with a stunning main entrance made up of three brick-arched gates. The name “Qingzhen Li Bai Si” is carved above the gates, meaning “Islamic Prayer Mosque”.
The mosque holds deep cultural and historical value. Inside, you can find priceless items such as a handwritten Quran by a foreign Muslim and a hardwood Quran box. These artifacts further add to the mosque’s rich history. On important occasions like Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha, the mosque can hold up to 200 worshippers.
Travel Tips for Qianmen Mosque
Address: 9 Yangwei Hutong, Xicheng District, Beijing 北京市西城区扬威胡同9号
Opening Hours: The mosque is open every day year-round, but it’s best to avoid peak holiday periods to avoid large crowds.
How to Get There
- Subway: Take Line 2 to Qianmen Station or Line 7 to Zhushikou Station, and it’s a short walk from either station.
- It’s located close to Tiananmen Square, so it’s easy to reach and perfectly situated for sightseeing.
7. Madian Mosque: A Peaceful Retreat in Beijing
The Madian Mosque (马甸清真寺) was built during the Kangxi period of the Qing Dynasty (1662-1722). It was originally created by the local Hui Muslim community as a place for worship and prayer. The mosque spans over 3,800 square meters and follows the traditional Chinese courtyard-style architecture, which is a hallmark of many Beijing buildings.
What makes Madian Mosque so unique is the way it blends Chinese traditional architecture with Islamic design. The mosque’s main structures include the mountain gate, the flower gate, the main hall, and additional rooms in the north and south wings.
The main hall follows a layout of five rooms wide and three rooms deep, with a porch at the front and a cave-like hall at the back. Above the hall, there’s a moon-viewing pavilion, completing the traditional Chinese courtyard-style look.
Travel Tips for Madian Mosque
Address: 7 Madian Nan Village, Haidian District, Beijing (Northwest side of Madian Bridge)
北京市海淀区马甸南村7号(马甸桥西北侧)
How to Get There
To get to Madian Mosque, take Subway Line 5 or Line 10 to Mudan Yuan Station (牡丹园站) or Beitai Pingzhuang Station (北太平庄站). From either station, it’s a short walk to the mosque.
Opening Hours and Admission
Madian Mosque is open every day from 6:00 AM to 9:30 PM. The mosque is free to visit—there’s no need to buy tickets in advance. Just show up and enjoy the peaceful surroundings!
Nearby Eats: While Madian Mosque doesn’t offer food, you’re in luck! The area around the mosque has plenty of delicious local snacks and small restaurants. You can try Beijing-style fried noodles (炸酱面) or lamb skewers (羊肉串) at one of the nearby stalls.
8. Fayuan Mosque: A Tranquil Spot with Rich History in Beijing
The Fayuan Mosque (法源清真寺)was first built at the end of the Qing Dynasty and was later renovated during the early years of Emperor Kangxi’s reign. It underwent two more rounds of renovations and expansions in 1983 and 2007. In 2003, the Xicheng District government improved the surrounding area, enhancing the mosque’s environment and facilities.
This mosque is designed in the classic Chinese architectural style, with a sense of elegance, dignity, and quiet beauty. Inside, you’ll find a lecture hall, the main hall, the kiln hall, and the Bunker Tower.
Inside, the hall is spacious and peaceful, with plenty of natural light creating a serene and solemn atmosphere.
Travel Tips for Fayuan Mosque
Address: 200 Deshengmen Outer Street, Xicheng District, Beijing 北京西城区德胜门外大街200号
How to Get There
Take Subway Line 2 and get off at Gulou Dajie Station (Exit A). From there, it’s about a 10-minute walk to the mosque.
Nearby Attractions
The mosque is located near some of Beijing’s must-see spots, including Deshengmen, Gulou (Drum Tower), and Shichahai. You can easily visit these famous places after exploring the mosque.
9. Haidian Mosque: A Tranquil Corner in Beijing
Haidian Mosque （海淀清真寺）was built at the end of the Ming Dynasty and the beginning of the Qing Dynasty. The mosque is laid out in a traditional three-courtyard style, with a vegetable garden to the north and a charitable land to the west.
The main prayer hall has three rooms with a porch extending outward. In front of the hall is a white stone moon platform, and at the back, there’s a smaller kiln hall with the inscription “Mihalab” on the wall. The roof features a small, four-cornered pavilion at the center.
Haidian Mosque is not just a place for religious activities; it also holds significant historical and cultural value. The mosque’s unique architecture reflects Islamic building styles and carries deep cultural meaning. The mosque grounds also feature three lecture halls to the north and south. This mosque serves as the headquarters for the Haidian District Islamic Association.
Travel Tips for Haidian Mosque
Address: West Nanshizhan Road, Haidian District, Beijing 北京海淀镇南西栅栏路西
How to Get There
Take Subway Line 13 to Xierqi Station （西二旗站）. After exiting, it’s just a short walk to the mosque.
What to See and Do
- Main Prayer Hall: Once you enter, you’ll be greeted by the grand and serene prayer hall. Listen to the Quran recitations and soak in the religious atmosphere.
- Muslim Living Area: After visiting the prayer hall, take a stroll through the Muslim living quarters. It’s a great way to understand their way of life and traditions.
Opening Hours
Haidian Mosque is open every day from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. No need to buy tickets in advance; just come and explore.
10. Tongzhou Mosque: A Historical Gem in Beijing
Tongzhou Mosque （通州清真寺）was built during the Yuan Dynasty in Yanyou (around 1300), it has more than 700 years of history. It’s one of the four major mosques in Beijing.
The mosque faces east, with key structures including a wooden archway, screen wall, Bunker Tower, main prayer hall, north and south wings, and water mills. The main prayer hall is the centerpiece, showcasing impressive architectural art and historical significance.
Tongzhou Mosque is spacious and well-organized. It cleverly incorporates traditional Chinese architecture, giving it high artistic and historical value. The mosque stands as a testament to the Hui Muslim community that settled in the region and is an important part of the Grand Canal cultural history.
Travel Tips for Tongzhou Mosque
Address: 1 Qingzhen Temple Street, Tongzhou District, Beijing
How to Get There: Subway: Take the Subway Batong Line to Tongzhou Station. From there, it’s a short 5-minute walk to the mosque.
Opening Hours: The mosque is open daily from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM. After 5:30 PM, no more visitors are allowed in.
Admission: The mosque is completely free to visit. There’s no entry fee, so you can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere without any cost.
Nearby Eats: The area around Tongzhou Mosque has several halal restaurants where you can sample delicious lamb skewers and crispy naan. These tasty dishes are perfect for refueling after your visit!
Beijing is home to many fascinating Islamic sites that reflect the city’s long history of Islamic heritage. These Top 10 Best Mosques in Beijing offer something for everyone. Whether you’re here to pray, explore Islamic architecture, or simply learn more about Beijing’s Muslim history, these mosques are essential stops.
