Ruins of the Jewish Mosque
What are the most recommended things to do in Ruins of the Jewish Mosque?
Visit the Ruins of the Jewish Mosque to learn about the rich history of the Jewish community that once lived in Kaifeng. Explore the mosque's ruins and surrounding area, where you can see remnants of Jewish architecture and inscriptions. It’s a great spot for those interested in historical sites and cultural heritage.
Introducing the ruins of the Jewish mosque
The ruins of the Jewish Mosque are located on Laohudong Street, Zhuxian Town, Kaifeng City. It was first built during the reign of Emperor Taizong of the Northern Song Dynasty, expanded in the tenth year of Jiajing in the Ming Dynasty, and rebuilt in the ninth year of Qianlong in the Qing Dynasty. It has a history of a thousand years. Among the top 100 mosques in the country, its architectural style and decoration are rare. It is said that the Marshal's Mansion was located in the mosque when Yue Fei fought against the Jin soldiers.
The locust tree under which Yue Fei took shelter from the heat in the temple at that time is known as the " Acacia Locust Tree " by the people and is preserved in the temple. The temple also retains an Arabic stele from the tenth year of the Jiaqing reign of the Qing Dynasty, which records the grand occasion of Muslims worshiping Allah in Zhuxian Town at that time. It is the most complete Arabic stele preserved in Henan Province.
Climate and best time to travel
Suitable for all seasons
Recommended number of days and locations for visiting
Recommended playing time: about 1 hour
Tickets
free
Attraction opening hours
9:00-19:00
Most Popular FAQs for Ruins of the Jewish Mosque
What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?
The Ruins of the Jewish Mosque are remnants of a once-thriving Jewish community in Kaifeng. Jewish merchants and settlers arrived in the Song Dynasty, and the mosque served as a place of worship for them. The site is a testament to the historical presence of Jews in China and is a rare, significant cultural monument.
Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?
The mosque ruins are located in the old district of Kaifeng. The easiest way to reach the site is by taxi or private car, which takes about 15 minutes from the city center. Public transportation is available, but it may require a transfer.
What are the opening hours and best times to visit?
The Ruins of the Jewish Mosque are open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best time to visit is during the spring or fall when the weather is mild and comfortable for walking around the historical site.
What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?
The entrance fee is typically around 30 RMB. Tickets can be purchased directly at the entrance. Online booking options are not commonly available for this site.
Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary, as the site is not typically crowded. However, during peak tourist seasons, it’s a good idea to arrive early.
How much time is needed to fully explore it?
Visitors typically spend about 30 minutes to 1 hour exploring the Ruins of the Jewish Mosque. If you wish to learn more about its history, you may want to take a guided tour or spend additional time at nearby museums.
What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?
The main highlights are the ruins of the mosque itself, particularly the stone tablets and inscriptions. The surrounding area offers insight into the history of the Jewish community in Kaifeng, making it a unique spot for history enthusiasts.
Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?
Guided tours are available in Mandarin. Audio guides or English-speaking guides may not always be available, so it's advisable to check in advance or book a local guide if you're interested in more detailed historical explanations.
What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?
The best photography spots are the mosque ruins and the stone inscriptions. The surrounding gardens and historical buildings also make for excellent backdrops for photos.
What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?
Start at the main mosque ruins, then explore the nearby historical structures and read the stone inscriptions. You can also visit the nearby Kaifeng Jewish Museum for further context.
Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?
Night visits and light shows are not available at the Ruins of the Jewish Mosque. It’s best to visit during the daytime when the site is open.
Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?
The site is generally quiet, but it may see increased traffic during national holidays or weekends. The best time to visit for fewer crowds is during weekdays, particularly in the early morning.
What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?
The site has basic facilities, including toilets and small rest areas. There are no food or drink services directly at the site, so it’s best to bring your own water or snacks. Nearby shops offer souvenirs and refreshments.
Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?
The site has some uneven terrain and may not be fully accessible for elderly or disabled visitors. However, children can easily explore the area with adult supervision.
Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?
Cash is still commonly used at the site, but mobile payments (like WeChat Pay and Alipay) are accepted. It’s a good idea to bring cash as a backup.
What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?
There are small local eateries and tea houses near the mosque where visitors can enjoy traditional Chinese food and snacks. For more variety, head towards the city center.
Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?
Vegetarian food options are available in the nearby eateries, but halal food options are limited. It's best to check local restaurants for specific dietary needs.
What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?
Several budget hotels and guesthouses are located near the mosque. For more upscale accommodations, there are options in the city center, which is just a short drive away.
What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?
Nearby attractions include the Kaifeng Iron Pagoda, the Dragon Pavilion, and the Kaifeng Jewish Museum. These can be easily combined into a single day trip.
Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?
Souvenir shops near the site sell small historical items, traditional Chinese crafts, and Jewish-related memorabilia. Items like postcards, keychains, and traditional tea sets are popular souvenirs.
What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?
Taxis or private cars are the best options for continuing your journey to other attractions in Kaifeng. Public buses are available, but they may require multiple transfers.
