Great Mosque of Xi’an

Lianhu, China

Set within the lanes near the Drum Tower, the Great Mosque rewards a slower visit through courtyards, planted spaces and carved architectural details. Its Chinese forms and Islamic religious purpose tell a different story from the imperial monuments elsewhere in Xi’an. Combine it with a walk through the surrounding Muslim Quarter, leaving time to notice inscriptions and the sequence of gateways. This remains a place of worship, so dress respectfully and follow guidance about areas open to visitors.