Muslim Quarter of Xi'an
More than 80 million Muslims live in China. I don’t think they all live here in Xi'an, but it sort of feels like it as you wander through the tight, mostly pedestrian-only streets and lanes. (Actually, I checked, and Xi'an was the first city in China to be introduced to Islam, and only 50,000 Muslims live here.)
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| pedestrian-only shopping street in Muslim Quarter in Xi'an, China |
As you explore this atmospheric area, you can visit the
Great Mosque of Xi’an (entry fee), shop in an exotic covered bazaar for colorful items from both China and the Middle East,
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| covered bazaar shopping in Muslim Quarter in Xi'an, China |
and indulge in kabobs grilled on fresh tree branches as well as other enticing street food (we were advised to stay away from the squid and crabs on a stick).
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| tree brances for kabobs in Muslim Quarter in Xi'an, China |
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squid and crab kabobs in Muslim Quarter in Xi'an, China
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flours and spices in Muslim Quarter in Xi'an, China
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plump dried plums in Muslim Quarter in Xi'an, China
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pulling sesame candy in Muslim Quarter in Xi'an, China
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rice cake dessert on a stick in Muslim Quarter in Xi'an, China
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You can also meet woodcut artist Ding Ji Tang, who works daily in his stall in the bazaar and sells his own colorful works as well as those of his students. The
Golden Flower Hotel, where I stayed, displays his art on guest room walls, so I noticed and liked his simple style even before this serendipitous opportunity to see him at work. My only regret is that I couldn’t decide which piece to buy and so left empty-handed.
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woodcut artist Ding Ji Tang in Muslim Quarter in Xi'an, China
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I have no idea there was such a large Muslim population in China. My husband loves sesame candy, he'd be really interested in visiting that street vendor (apologies if more than 1 comment came through, having trouble)
ReplyDeleteHaven't been to Xi'an, China yet but it's on my short list. Will definitely have to go to the Muslim quarter. Your photos are gorgeous! (2nd time trying to post this comment, so please delete if the first one did come through)
ReplyDeleteThank you for the comment on my photos! BTW, only one reply came through and I'm so glad it did. :)
DeleteWow, 80 million Muslims in China. Guess with a population of a billion it makes sense, but still surprising. great photos by the way.
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