The Zhakiya Kazhi Mosque in the city centre is the oldest mosque in Kokshetau, built in 1893–1894 during the tsarist period by the Tatar community and local population. The building survived the Soviet era and has been restored since independence as an active place of worship. It is a modest but handsome structure that reflects the Central Asian Islamic architecture of the late 19th century, distinct from both the grander Ottoman-influenced mosques of the west and the newer Saudi-funded constructions that dominate many Central Asian cities today.
Non-Muslims are generally welcome to look around at quiet times of day; dress modestly and ask before entering. The mosque is within walking distance of the regional museum and the central square, making it a natural stop on a circuit of the old town centre.