The cluster of gong bei mausoleums along Linxia's main street is one of the most unusual streetscapes in northwestern China. These domed shrines, belonging to different Sufi orders — Naqshbandiyya, Qadiriyya, Kubrawiyya, and others — stand within metres of each other, each marking the burial place of an order's founding teacher. They range from simple whitewashed domes to elaborate multi-storey structures with tiled interiors.
Visitors are welcome in the outer courtyards of most gong bei. You will often see pilgrims from rural communities sitting quietly in contemplation, burning incense, or reciting prayers. The contrast with the busy market streets immediately outside is abrupt and striking. Try to visit in the morning when the light falls across the tilework.