China is a vast country with a rich cultural tapestry, and its major cities attract millions of visitors annually. For Muslim travelers and businessmen, finding halal food is often a key concern. Here’s a guide to the top 5 most visited cities in China by international tourists, along with a selection of halal, Muslim, and Pakistani restaurants.

Top 5 Most Visited Cities in China
Based on general international tourism trends, the following cities consistently rank high for visitor numbers due to their historical significance, cultural attractions, and modern appeal:

• Beijing (Capital City, Historical & Cultural Hub)
• Shanghai (Modern Metropolis, Financial & Fashion Center)
• Xi’an (Ancient Capital, Silk Road Gateway)
• Guangzhou (Southern Hub, Trade & Cuisine)
• Chengdu (Sichuan Capital, Panda & Food Culture)
  Halal Food Restaurants in China’s Top Cities
  Important Note for Muslim Travelers:
• “Qīngzhēn” (清真) is the Chinese term for Halal and is often displayed prominently at Halal restaurants.
• While many Halal restaurants in China serve authentic Muslim cuisine, it’s always advisable to confirm the Halal status if you have strict dietary requirements, especially concerning cross-contamination or the presence of alcohol on the premises (some Chinese Halal restaurants might serve beer to non-Muslim customers).
• Pakistani restaurants, where available, generally offer stricter Halal practices due to their primary target audience.
• Contact numbers provided are generally landlines or mobile numbers; international dialing codes (+86 for China) should be used if calling from outside China.

1. Beijing
   Beijing has a significant Hui Muslim population, especially around the Niujie Mosque area, which is a hub for halal food.

• Hong Bin Lou (鸿宾楼)
• Cuisine: Traditional Beijing Halal Cuisine
• Address: 11 Xuanwumen Outer Street, Xicheng District (西城区宣武门外大街11号)
• Tel: +86-10-63160070
• Famous Dishes: Braised Lamb with Vermicelli (烧羊肉), Beef with Scallion (扒肉条), various dumplings. Known for its long history and elegant dining experience.
• Valuable Info: One of Beijing’s oldest and most renowned halal restaurants, often considered a culinary landmark for traditional Hui cuisine.
• Dong Lai Shun Muslim Restaurant (东来顺饭庄)
• Cuisine: Beijing Hotpot (Shabu-shabu)
• Address: Multiple branches; a prominent one is at 19 Wangfujing Street, Dongcheng District (东城区王府井大街19号)
• Tel: +86-10-65139661 (Wangfujing Branch)
• Famous Dishes: Hand-sliced Mutton Hotpot (手切羊肉), various lamb and beef cuts for hotpot.
• Valuable Info: Famous for its copper pot hotpot, a quintessential Beijing experience. They exclusively use halal lamb and beef.
• Punjabi Indian Restaurant & Cultural Center
• Cuisine: Indian & Pakistani Halal Cuisine
• Famous Dishes: Various curries (chicken, lamb, vegetable), kebabs, biryani, naan.

• Valuable Info: This restaurant specifically mentions using “Muslim Halal meat” and caters to various dietary needs. Often hosts cultural events.
• Masala (Pakistani Restaurant by Syed Ayyaz Gillani)
• Cuisine: Authentic Pakistani Cuisine
• Address: Huairou District, Beijing (There are two locations; one in Huairou and a second at the foot of the Great Wall in Huairou). Specific addresses may require local inquiry or searching on Chinese maps (e.g., Baidu Maps).
• Famous Dishes: Traditional Pakistani broths, curries, and pastries.
• Valuable Info: Run by a Pakistani chef, Syed Ayyaz Gillani, this offers a truly authentic Pakistani taste. Ideal for those looking for a “taste of home.”