Visitors to Beijing may find it surprising that there is a longstanding Muslim community that has flourished for over 1,000 years beginning in the Liao Dynasty. Today, this area remains Beijing’s largest concentrated Muslim community that can be easily recognized by the many shops with signs in Arabic script. More about Niu Jie continues below.

Niu Jie is located in Beijing’s Xicheng District, and more specifically the Xuanwu District within it. Reaching Niu Jie is accessible by visiting the area south of Changchunjie of Beijing Subway Line 2 and also the area west ofCaishikouof Beijing Subway Line 4. This area is inhabited by over 10,000 Muslims, and also integrates many other ethnic and religious minorities. Located in this area is the famous mosque, built in the 10th century. During the inception of this area, two of the greatest Qing emperors – Yongzheng and Qianlong – conferred friendship of China’s Muslims in order to be viewed as the rightful rulers of a multi-cultural empire. Even within the inside of the Imperial City, a school of Islamic studies was built in order for the imperial household to better understand the strange foreign customs of their Muslim subjects.

Coming to this area, visitors will find many businesses catering to the local Muslim community like Halal butchers, markets and restaurateurs. Muslim restaurants are still thriving in this area, serving specialty dishes like lamb kebabs, meat buns, hot pot and more. Even non-Muslims come to this area for its many Muslim restaurants is a treat. For Muslims, this area is well-received and provides a haven for Muslims visiting Beijing.