Xi'an's Islamic Chinatown

The appearance of Islam in China has a lengthy history, dating back to the Tang Dynasty in the 7th century. This period was contemporary with the first generation of the followers of Prophet Muhammad, who died in AD 632. These Hui Muslims were mostly traders who came into contact with Arabs, Persians, and Indians along the Silk Road. Dozens of mosques constructed in Guangzhou, Hangzhou, and Cang'an—now known as Xi'an—were happily constructed with blood, sweat and tears. Today, Islam has a strong presence in Xi'an, supported by a harmony of small businesses, tourism, and a tradition of Tai Chi.

Here is a travel report made in early September by Wahyu Muryadi from Tempo, who explored the ancient dream cities of the emperors.

November 23, 2004

THE Islamic greeting of peace could be faintly heard inside. As the hotel room door was opened, three young men offered handshakes. The one in the middle was dressed in a white fez, a short-sleeved brown shirt, black pants, and rubber sandals. He had a clear complexion, creamy-yellow skin, and was calm in his speech. Speaking in the local dialect, Ma Ya Zheng alias Abubakar, my guide, explained our identity and the purpose of our visit. The m

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