Hui

The Hui are a Chinese Muslim ethnic minority officially recognized by the People’s Republic of China as one of its 56 ethnic groups. They are diverse in origin but united by their Islamic faith and a long-standing presence in Chinese society. In Chinese government terminology, Hui identity emphasizes religion alongside cultural practices, rather than a single homogeneous ethnicity.

Islam reached China through Silk Road trade networks, and Hui communities formed over centuries through conversion, migration, and intermarriage between Han Chinese and Muslim traders and settlers. The Ningxia region became a cultural heartland for the Hui, and the Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region was established in 1958 as a self-governing area for the group.

Geographically, Hui populations are concentrated in Ningxia, Gansu, Qinghai, and other provinces, with diasporic communities in major cities across China. They are among the most visible Muslim groups in the country and are often distinguished from other Muslim ethnic groups such as the Uyghurs by language, homeland, and historical emergence.

Religion and culture: Hui practice Sunni Islam, commonly associated with the Hanafi school, and organize daily prayers, Friday prayers at mosques, and observance of Ramadan and halal dietary laws. Many Hui read the Qur’an in Mandarin or Arabic and attend religious education at mosques and madrasas. Hui cuisine is a notable cultural marker, featuring halal dishes and a variety of regional specialties.

Language and identity: The majority of Hui speak Mandarin Chinese as their first language, often with local dialects; they typically do not have a distinct script. They maintain distinctive religious rituals and dietary laws while sharing many cultural practices with Han Chinese.

Contemporary life: In modern China, Hui communities participate across all sectors of society. Religious life is regulated by state policies on religion, with mosques, halal markets, and religious schools operating under local authorities, contributing to regional cultural and economic life.