1955, 1979 and 1996. As of 2002 the master plan of the renovation of Niujie stated that the mosque will remain at its current location and that a grassy area and large square would be developed around the mosque. Architecture The mosque consists of group of buildings which follow the norms of traditional Chinese architecture. It has two courtyard according to the Siheyuan layout. Facilities include a worship hall, the Wangyue Building, Building for Publicising Etiquette, a lecture hall, the Tablet Pavilion, the Twin Pavilions, and bathrooms. The mosque is home to an ancient Quran over 300 years old, tombs of Arabian sages, and an incense burner dating from the Ming dynasty. The mosque also houses a library with ancient manuscripts. Tourism and official visits The Government of the People's Republic of China often uses the Niujie Mosque as a visiting site for delegations coming from Islamic countries. Han Chinese and Hui tourists and Muslims from outside of China visit the Niujie Mosque for tourism reasons. While non-Muslims are not allowed to enter the prayer hall, people working at the mosque are quite friendly to all visitors and happy to talk about their beliefs with those who can speak Chinese. Visitors to the mosque may also be interested in the China Islamic Institute, which is just southeast, at the corner of Nanheng W. Road and Jiaozi Hutong. Transportation The mosque is accessible within walking distance south west of Caishikou Station of Beijing Subway. Gallery See also Islam in China Hui people in Beijing History of Beijing Timeline of Islamic history List of mosques in China Islamic architecture Islamic art References Mosques in Beijing Xicheng District Liao dynasty architecture Major National Historical and Cultural Sites in Beijing 996 establishments 10th-century establishments in China Religious organizations established in the 10th century 10th-century mosques