Ramadan ends at Niujie Mosque in Beijing, August 8, 2013

Niujie Mosque in Beijing on August 8, 2013 (Side Entrance)

BEIJING - Niujie Mosque is the oldest in Beijing, dating back to 996 AD during the Liao Dynasty. Ramadan is the Muslim month of fasting. The end of Ramadan and the beginning of the next lunar month is called Shawwal.

Niujie Mosque in Beijing on August 8, 2013 (Preparation for Shawwal)

There are an estimated 10,000 to 60,000 Muslims living in Beijing, mostly from Hui minority, the largest group of Muslims in Beijing, followed by Uighur.

Niujie Mosque in Beijing on August 8, 2013 (Main Prayer Hall)

The architecture is Chinese with Islamic interior designs. You even get Chinese calligraphy and paintings mixed into the wall paintings. Before the prayer, a Chinese governmental note was read, usually praising the Party and how it successfully manages China's cultural diversity.

Niujie Mosque in Beijing on August 8, 2013 (Imam prays)

It is a fascinating thing to experience the holidays of another culture's tradition, and Chinese Islam is a wonderful journey.