Halal food in China follows Islamic dietary laws, known locally as 清真 (qīngzhēn, meaning “pure and true”). China has one of the oldest Muslim communities in the world, dating back over 1,400 years to the Tang Dynasty. Today, approximately 25-30 million Muslims live in China, primarily Hui (ethnically Chinese Muslims) and Uyghurs (Turkic Muslims in Xinjiang). For specific country guides, see our comprehensive directory. Explore China travel for more information. Explore halal food for more information.
Chinese halal cuisine represents a unique fusion of Islamic dietary law with Chinese culinary traditions and Central Asian influences. Unlike many countries where halal food is primarily immigrant cuisine, Chinese halal food is an integral part of the national culinary heritage.
Halal Restaurants in China
Halal restaurants are abundant across China, with distinct regional styles:
Beijing: The capital’s Niujie (Ox Street) district is the historic Muslim quarter with centuries of halal dining tradition. Hundreds of halal restaurants serve Hui-style cuisine including lamb hot pot, halal Beijing duck, and traditional Muslim pastries.
Xi’an: The famous Muslim Quarter (Huimin Jie) is one of China’s most celebrated food destinations. This atmospheric neighborhood offers:
- Yangrou paomo (lamb soup with bread)
- Roujiamo (Chinese hamburger)
- Lamb skewers and offal
- Hand-pulled noodles
- Persimmon cakes and walnut pastries
Lanzhou: Home of the world-famous Lanzhou beef lamian (hand-pulled noodles). Authentic Lanzhou noodle shops operate throughout China, serving halal beef noodles in rich broth.
Xinjiang Region: Uyghur cuisine dominates with:
- Lamb kebabs (yangrou chuan)
- Polo (pilaf with lamb and carrots)
- Laghman (hand-pulled noodles with vegetables)
- Dapanji (big plate chicken)
- Samsa (baked meat pastries)
Shanghai and Guangzhou: Southern cities have smaller but established Muslim communities with halal restaurants concentrated in specific neighborhoods.
What Is the History of Islam and Halal Food in China?
Islam arrived in China during the Tang Dynasty (618-907 CE) through Arab and Persian traders along the Silk Road. These merchants established the first Muslim communities and mosques, particularly in Xi’an, the eastern terminus of the Silk Road.
Over centuries, Muslim communities developed distinctive Chinese Islamic cuisines:
- Hui cuisine: Adapted Chinese cooking methods to halal requirements
- Uyghur cuisine: Maintained Central Asian traditions
- Dongxiang and Salar cuisines: Regional variations in Gansu and Qinghai
Historical significance includes:
- The Great Mosque of Xi’an (founded 742 CE)
- Niujie Mosque in Beijing (996 CE)
- Hui participation in Chinese history and governance
What Is the Muslim Population in China?
China’s Muslim population is estimated at 25-30 million, representing about 2% of the total population. Major ethnic groups include:
Hui Muslims (~10-12 million): Ethnically Han Chinese who practice Islam. Distributed throughout China but concentrated in Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, Gansu, and Yunnan. Hui are the most integrated Muslim community, speaking Mandarin and sharing Han cultural practices except religion and diet.
Uyghurs (~12-15 million): Turkic Muslim people native to Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region. Maintain distinct language, culture, and Central Asian-influenced cuisine.
Other groups: Kazakhs, Kyrgyz, Tajiks, Uzbeks, Dongxiang, Salar, and Bonan peoples contribute to China’s Muslim diversity.
Is China Muslim-Friendly?
China presents a complex picture for Muslim travelers:
Positives:
- Excellent halal food availability in many regions
- Ancient mosques welcoming visitors
- Established Muslim communities with centuries of history
- No discrimination against practicing Muslims in daily life
Considerations:
- Political situation in Xinjiang affects Uyghur communities
- Some restrictions on religious practices in certain regions
- Prayer facilities may be limited outside Muslim areas
- VPN needed for some Islamic apps
Muslim travelers can comfortably visit major tourist destinations while being aware of the political context, particularly regarding Xinjiang.
Is China Safe for Muslim Travelers?
China is generally safe for Muslim travelers as tourists. The country has very low crime rates and tourist infrastructure is well-developed. Muslims can:
- Eat halal food widely available in cities
- Visit historic mosques (with ID registration)
- Practice prayer (prayer rooms at some hotels and airports)
- Wear Islamic dress (hijab is acceptable)
Foreign Muslims are treated as tourists rather than subject to domestic religious policies. However, awareness of the Xinjiang situation and sensitivity around certain topics is advisable.
How Does Halal Certification Work in China?
Chinese halal certification operates through:
China Islamic Association (CIA): National body overseeing Islamic affairs including halal standards.
Local Islamic Associations: Provincial and municipal bodies that certify restaurants and producers.
Mosque certification: Local mosques may vouch for neighborhood halal businesses.
Government regulation: The term 清真 (qingzhen) is legally protected and misuse is punishable.
For export, China has established halal certification bodies recognized by importing countries. Major Chinese companies produce halal-certified products for global Muslim markets.
How Do Halal Practices Differ Between Hui and Uyghur Muslims?
Hui Muslims:
- Follow Chinese cooking techniques with halal ingredients
- Cuisine resembles Han Chinese food minus pork
- Strong emphasis on lamb, beef, and mutton
- Adapted Chinese dishes like halal dumplings, noodles, and stir-fries
- Restaurants often serve halal versions of regional Chinese cuisines
Uyghur Muslims:
- Maintain Central Asian/Turkic culinary traditions
- Bread (nan) is staple rather than rice
- Heavy use of cumin, lamb, and dried fruits
- Pilaf (polo) and kebabs are centerpieces
- Less adapted to Chinese cuisine, more distinctly Turkic
Both communities strictly avoid pork and alcohol, maintaining Islamic dietary laws while expressing distinct cultural identities through food.