Exploring the Best Things to Do in Xian’s Muslim Quarter
By Leo
Xian’s Muslim Quarter has always been a vibrant part of the city that I return to. Nestled behind the iconic Bell Tower, this historic neighborhood has thrived for over a millennium, offering a lively mix of local cuisine, bustling markets, and rich cultural heritage.
In this guide, I’ll share my personal observations along with practical tips to help you fully experience the flavors, sights, and hidden gems of Xian’s Muslim Quarter.
What Is Xian’s Muslim Quarter and Where Is It?
Located just south of the Drum Tower, Xian’s Muslim Quarter is a vibrant district where Islamic and Chinese cultures come together. It’s famous for its bustling streets, flavorful street food, and lively atmosphere.
Home to the Hui Muslim community, this area blends ancient architecture, local delicacies, and deep cultural roots. Whether you’re here to eat, explore, or experience daily life, the Muslim Quarter is a must-visit in Xian.
Exploring the Muslim Quarter
Exploring Xian’s Muslim Quarter offers a rich mix of history, culture, and delicious food. From stunning architecture to vibrant street life, every corner tells a story.
Start with the Great Mosque: A Blend of East and West
My day began at the Great Mosque in Xian’s Muslim Quarter. The mosque combines Chinese architecture with Islamic art. Walking through its five courtyards, I admired the wood carvings, blue-tiled roofs, and Arabic calligraphy. The Moon Watching Tower offers a great view of the mosque’s layout and surrounding rooftops.
Dive into a Street Food Paradise in Xian’s Muslim Quarter
No visit to Xian’s Muslim Quarter is complete without tasting the street food. I tried yang rou paomo, tearing flatbread into a rich lamb soup—a local ritual. The aroma of cumin and grilled meat filled the air. Skewers of lamb cooked over charcoal were a must. For dessert, sticky zenggao with dates and red beans was a sweet finish.
Explore Hidden Alleys and Historical Courtyards
Away from the main street, I wandered through narrow alleys filled with spice shops and lantern makers. The Gao Family Courtyard showed traditional Ming Dynasty architecture. There, a shadow puppet show brought ancient stories to life, accompanied by lively Qinqiang music.
Shop for Unique Souvenirs in Xian’s Muslim Quarter
In the bustling markets of the Muslim Quarter, colorful handicrafts caught my eye. Embroidered scarves, copper teapots, and paper-cuts filled the stalls. Bargaining added to the experience, making shopping both fun and rewarding.
Experience the Muslim Quarter Night Market
Timing matters when exploring Xian’s Muslim Quarter. From lively evenings filled with glowing food stalls to peaceful early mornings, each moment offers a unique experience:
At night, the Muslim Quarter glowed under lantern light. Strolling the alleys, I enjoyed plum juice and local snacks like persimmon cakes and steamed rice cakes. The illuminated Drum Tower created a stunning scene to end the day.
Best Time to Visit the Muslim Quarter
Timing matters when exploring Xian’s Muslim Quarter. From lively evenings filled with glowing food stalls to peaceful early mornings, each moment offers a unique experience:
1. Best Time of Day: Evenings (5:00 PM–10:00 PM)
Why: The Muslim Quarter transforms into a vibrant night market after sunset. Food stalls light up, aromatic smoke from grills fills the air, and street performers (traditional musicians, calligraphers) add to the lively atmosphere.
Key Experiences:
- Cooler temperatures and dramatic lighting enhance the ambiance of ancient alleyways.
- Sizzling lamb skewers, Biang Biang noodles, and persimmon cakes served fresh off the grill.
Tip: Arrive by 6:00 PM to secure seating at popular eateries before peak crowds hit.
2. Best Seasons: Spring (March–May) & Autumn (September–November)
Weather: Mild temperatures (15°C–25°C) ideal for walking. Avoids summer heat (>35°C) and winter chills (<0°C).
Crowds:
- Spring: Fewer tourists than summer; blooming trees add charm.
- Autumn: Post-summer lull; crisp air perfect for savoring hot Yangrou Paomo (lamb stew)
Cultural Highlights:
- Spring: Ramadan (if aligned) brings heightened spiritual energy; evening iftar meals shared communally.
- Autumn: Mid-Autumn Festival lantern displays in side alleys.
How to Get to Xian’s Muslim Quarter
Xian’s Muslim Quarter is located within the city center, making it easily accessible. Here’s how to get there:
- By Taxi: A taxi ride from Xian’s major landmarks like the Bell Tower or Drum Tower will take you just a few minutes to reach the Muslim Quarter.
- By Public Transport: You can take Metro Line 2 to the Bell Tower Station, which is within walking distance of the Muslim Quarter. Alternatively, several buses also pass through the area.
- Walking: If you’re staying in central Xian, it’s a pleasant walk from most hotels in the city center. Simply head towards the Drum Tower and you’ll be at the heart of the Muslim Quarter in no time.
Tips for Visiting Xian’s Muslim Quarter
The following are some practical tips I’ve prepared to help you have a better experience in Xian’s Muslim Quarter, this charming and vibrant place:
- Bargain Wisely: While exploring the markets in Xian’s Muslim Quarter, haggling is common. Don’t hesitate to negotiate, especially when buying souvenirs.
- Stay Hydrated: Summer in Xian can be hot. Carry water with you—there are plenty of vendors selling cold drinks throughout the Muslim Quarter.
- Respect the Culture: The Muslim Quarter is a cultural and religious center. Be mindful of local customs, especially when visiting mosques or religious sites.
- Try Local Specialties: Don’t miss the famous Roujiamo, often called the Chinese hamburger. It’s one of Xian’s signature street foods, and the Muslim Quarter is the best place to try it.
- Watch Your Belongings: Like any busy tourist area, the Muslim Quarter can get crowded. Stay alert and keep your valuables secure while you explore.
Must-Try Foods in Xian’s Muslim Quarter
If you’re planning to explore the Muslim Quarter in Xian, don’t miss its incredible street food. This is a list I’ve personally put together, filled with must-try local dishes I’ve enjoyed myself — now I’m sharing it with you to make your trip even more delicious.
| Food Name | Key Features |
| Cumin Lamb Skewers(Yángròu chuàn) | Fatty cubes charcoal-grilled, crusted in toasted cumin-chili blend. Eat hot: Juice drips on stone! |
| Biang Biang Noodles(Kùdài miàn) | Belt-wide noodles slicked with chili oil + raw garlic. Watch chefs slap dough→ Slurp loudly! |
| Lamb Paomo Stew(Yángròu pàomó) | Hand-torn bread soaked in aromatic broth. Pro tip: Tear bread pea-size → Wait 3 mins to puff! |
| Spicy Lamb Trotters(Málà yángtí) | Gelatinous joints braised in Sichuan pepper-cinnamon sauce. Pair with: Iced sour plum juice. |
| Crispy Persimmon Cakes(Shìzi bǐng) | Molten persimmon filling in sesame-crusted shells. Texture: Crisp shell → Gooey center → Nutty crunch. |
| Roujiamo(Ròujiāmó) | Crispy buns stuffed with cumin-braised lamb. Fun fact: The OG “burger” (2000+ years old)! |
| Rose Rice Cakes(Méiguī jìng gāo) | Layered sweetness with floral notes + walnut crumble. Find them: Huajue Alley carts at dusk. |
| Walnut Brittle (Hǔpò hétao) | Sugar-glazed nuts stretched into amber sheets. Sound: Crack!shards melt on tongue. |
| Iced Osmanthus Jelly(Bīng láozāo) | Fermented rice jelly + osmanthus syrup → Crushed ice. Cool downafter spicy trotters! |
As your guide, I can say that Xian’s Muslim Quarter truly captures the spirit of this ancient city. Walking these lively streets, tasting the rich flavors, and soaking in the culture always leaves a deep impression. The Best Things to Do in Xian’s Muslim Quarter are not just sights or dishes—they are moments you live and remember. Join me, and let’s explore this vibrant neighborhood together for an experience you won’t forget.