Located in the Lixia District of Jinan, Shandong province, the Jinan Great Southern Mosque offers you a fascinating look into China's rich architectural and cultural history. Established in 1295 CE during the Yuan dynasty under Temür Khan, this historic site features structures mostly erected during the Ming dynasty between 1436 and 1492. Situated just west of the historical city center and Baotu Spring Park, you will find it positioned at the southern entrance to Jinan's vibrant Muslim quarter (Huimin Xiaoqu).
As you explore the grounds, you will notice how the layout uniquely mimics a traditional Chinese temple courtyard with major buildings arranged along an axis of symmetry. Unlike typical Chinese temples oriented north-south, this mosque’s main axis runs east-west so that visitors and worshippers face west toward Mecca upon entering the main prayer hall. You can admire a traditional spirit wall protecting the main entrance and appreciate the 6,630-square-meter site, which blends functional Islamic elements seamlessly into classical Chinese courtyard architecture.
Despite facing severe damage and temporary conversion into a factory during the Cultural Revolution, the site has been protected as a provincial-level key cultural heritage site since 1992.
What to see at Jinan Great Southern Mosque
- Established in 1295 CE during the Yuan dynasty, with present structures dating to the Ming dynasty
- Traditional Chinese temple courtyard layout uniquely oriented east-west toward Mecca
- Classic Chinese spirit wall standing guard at the main entrance
- Prime location at the southern entrance to Jinan's Muslim quarter (Huimin Xiaoqu)
- Designated as a provincial-level key cultural heritage site since 1992
Visiting tips
Combine your visit with an exploration of the neighboring Muslim quarter and nearby Baotu Spring Park.
How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Morning or afternoon
How to get there & what’s nearby
Jinan Great Southern Mosque is easy to reach on Jinan’s public transport. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Jinan travel guide.
See the full Jinan travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.