Xi'an One Day Tour: Visit The Great Mosque of Xi'an and Muslim Quarter

Tour Itinerary

In the morning, your local Xi’an tour guide will meet you at the hotel lobby in Xi’an downtown or Xi’an train station, where you’ll be greeted by a welcome sign that reads “Your Way Holiday.” This marks the beginning of your fascinating Xi'an Muslim tour. From the moment you meet your guide, they'll share insights into the city's unique blend of cultures, setting the tone for an enriching journey through Xi'an's Islamic heritage.

Your first stop is the Great Mosque of Xi'an, the largest mosque in China and one of the city's most significant cultural landmarks. Built during the Ming dynasty, the mosque seamlessly blends traditional Chinese architectural styles with Islamic influences. Your guide will walk you through the various sections of the mosque, including the Honored Prayer Hall, Worship Hall, Shengxin Lou, and the Phoenix Pavilion—each one offering a unique perspective on the harmony between Chinese and Islamic cultures. One of the standout features your guide will highlight is the wooden archway in the front courtyard, built in the 17th century, which stands at nine meters high with its upturned eaves, intricately painted rafters, and carved beams. Your guide will explain the symbolism and architectural beauty behind these features, as well as the historical significance of the mosque as a spiritual center for Xi'an's Hui Muslim community.

Next, you’ll head to Muslim Quarter, one of the most vibrant and famous food streets in Xi'an, where your guide will introduce you to the rich culinary traditions of the Hui people. The area, with its historic Ming-style buildings and gray flagstone streets, is a sensory delight—especially for food lovers. Your guide will take you through the history of the street, tracing its roots back over 1,000 years to the Han Dynasty when the Silk Road first brought Muslims to China. As you stroll through the bustling streets, you’ll encounter a wide variety of local snacks and dishes, including famous crude pancake in mutton soup, cold rice noodles, Chinese hamburgers (roujiamo), and Qishan noodles. Your guide will explain the significance of these dishes, which reflect the rich mix of northern and western flavors brought by merchants and travelers along the Silk Road. You’ll also have the chance to sample Xi’an small cakes, Shaanxi pasta, and rice cakes, with your guide offering recommendations based on your tastes and dietary preferences.

After exploring the Muslim Quarter, you’ll enjoy a Halal lunch at a local Halal restaurant, where your guide will help you choose authentic dishes that reflect the unique blend of Islamic and Chinese flavors in Xi’an’s cuisine.  Your guide will explain the traditional cooking methods and local ingredients, ensuring you get a true taste of Xi’an’s culinary heritage.

The final stop on your tour is the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, a symbol of ancient Xi'an and a significant Buddhist site. Built in 652 AD during the Tang Dynasty, it was originally designed to house sacred sutras and figurines brought to China by Xuanzang. The pagoda was rebuilt in 704 AD under Empress Wu Zetian and renovated in the Ming Dynasty, blending Chinese architecture with Buddhist influences. Standing at 64 meters, it is now a National Key Cultural Relic Preserve. Your tour guide will explain the pagoda’s historical and spiritual importance, including its role in spreading Buddhism throughout China. As you explore, your guide will highlight key architectural features and share insights into its cultural significance. This visit provides a peaceful conclusion to your day, offering a deeper understanding of China’s religious history and architectural heritage.

AAfter visiting the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, your tour guide will accompany you as you drive back to your hotel in Xi’an or Xi’an train station, marking the end of your memorable Xi'an tour. Along the way, your guide may share final insights about the city’s rich history, or suggest a few more local spots to explore on your own, depending on your schedule. Whether you're headed to your hotel to relax or catching a train to your next destination, your Xi'an adventure will leave you with lasting memories of the city's ancient charm and cultural heritage.

Price Per Person in US Dollars