1. Historical & Cultural Significance
The Xi'an Muslim Quarter (回民街, Huímín Jiē), also called "Huifang", dates back to the Tang Dynasty (618–907 AD) when Arab and Persian traders settled in Chang’an (modern Xi'an). Today, it’s home to 20,000+ Hui Muslims and 10 historic mosques, including the Great Mosque of Xi'an (built in 742 AD), a fusion of Chinese and Islamic architecture.
2. Layout & Key Streets
- Main Streets: Beiyuanmen (北院门), Beiguangji Street (北广济街), Xiyangshi (西羊市), and Dapiyuan (大皮院).
- Features: Qing-era stone-paved alleys, red lanterns, and Ming-Qing style shopfronts.
3. Culinary Highlights
- Must-Try Foods:
- Yangrou Paomo (羊肉泡馍): Lamb stew with hand-torn bread (try at Lao Sun Jia).
- Roujiamo (肉夹馍): Crispy bread stuffed with braised pork or lamb.
- Biángbiáng Noodles (裤带面): Thick, spicy noodles named after the complex Chinese character "Biáng".
- Persian-Inspired Snacks: Rose-petal cakes, saffron-infused sweets.
- Night Market: Grilled lamb skewers, liangpi (cold noodles), and pomegranate juice stalls light up after sunset.
4. Cultural Experiences
- Great Mosque: One of China’s oldest, with Chinese pavilions and Arabic calligraphy.
- Xi'an Cultural Exhibition Center: Free museum showcasing Silk Road artifacts and Hui heritage.
- Handicrafts: Blue-glazed pottery, embroidered prayer caps.
5. Visitor Tips
- Hours: 8 AM–12 AM (food stalls busiest 6–10 PM).
- Etiquette: Avoid pork or alcohol in restaurants; dress modestly near mosques.
- Nearby Attractions: Bell Tower (5-minute walk), Drum Tower.
6. Global Recognition
- Ranked among China’s Top 10 Food Streets (2023).
- Featured in Netflix’s "Street Food: Asia" (2019).
The Muslim Quarter is more than a food hub—it’s a living testament to Xi'an’s multicultural past, where every bite tells a story of the Silk Road.