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Explore the bustling market stalls selling traditional handicrafts, spices, textiles, and Uyghur jewelry. Enjoy a walk through the vibrant alleys, try local street food, and visit the various pavilions showcasing Kashgar's rich cultural heritage.
Bazaar, a Uyghur word meaning market, is a unique traditional form of trade in Xinjiang.
Kashgar is a commodity distribution center and a historic and cultural city on the ancient Silk Road. This has led to the Kashgar Grand Bazaar becoming the largest international trade market in Northwest my country. This is the most famous and largest bazaar in the center, boasting the most diverse merchandise, the most affordable prices, the most customers, and the most vibrant atmosphere.
Of course, the prosperous trade here has a lot to do with its unique locational advantages. It is located in the center of the Eurasian continent, with five ports connecting to eight countries and connecting Europe and Asia all the way, so it has the prosperous scene today.
Suitable for all seasons;
The climate is temperate continental, with cold winters and hot summers, large annual temperature differences, concentrated precipitation, and distinct four seasons.
It is recommended to play for more than 3 hours;
Nearby attractions: Gaotai Residence, Kashgar People's Square, Donghu Park, Kashgar Museum, etc.
free
11:00-20:00 (Monday-Sunday, January 1st-December 31st)
The Kashgar Grand Bazaar has been a key center of trade for centuries, particularly during the time of the Silk Road. It is one of the largest and most vibrant markets in Central Asia, and it plays a significant role in preserving Uyghur culture through its artisanal crafts, foods, and traditions.
Kashgar Grand Bazaar is located in the heart of Kashgar, in the southern part of the city. It can be easily accessed by taxi, bus, or on foot from other parts of the city. The bazaar is a central hub, so it’s easy to find.
The bazaar is generally open from early morning until late evening. The best time to visit is in the morning when the market is lively, but not as crowded. The bazaar is especially vibrant on Sundays when it hosts an even larger market and attracts visitors from surrounding regions.
There is no entrance fee to visit the Kashgar Grand Bazaar. However, some attractions within the bazaar, such as the museums or certain workshops, may charge a small entry fee. Tickets for these can be bought onsite.
Advance booking is not required for the bazaar itself. However, for specific activities or guided tours, it’s advisable to book a day or two in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
To fully explore the Kashgar Grand Bazaar, allow 2 to 3 hours. This will give you enough time to browse the stalls, try some local food, and explore the various sections of the bazaar.
Must-see areas include the traditional market stalls selling Uyghur textiles, carpets, and spices, as well as the food section where you can sample local dishes like lamb kebabs and polo (pilaf). The gold market and the traditional Uyghur jewelry stalls are also popular highlights.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin and English. These tours offer deeper insight into the cultural significance of the bazaar and the items sold. Audio guides are not commonly available, but local guides can provide personalized services.
Great photography spots include the market stalls where you can capture the vibrant colors of the textiles and spices, the busy food section, and the bustling entrance areas. The nearby Id Kah Mosque also provides excellent views of the area.
Start at the main entrance and explore the outer stalls first, then move inward towards the more specialized areas like the food and jewelry sections. If time allows, stop at a local teahouse for a break before finishing with a visit to the Id Kah Mosque nearby.
Night visits are available, and the bazaar has a different atmosphere after dark, with some vendors staying open late. However, there are no light shows or special night tours offered at the moment.
The bazaar can get quite crowded, especially on weekends and during the Sunday market. To avoid crowds, visit on weekdays, particularly early in the morning.
Facilities include clean toilets, food stalls offering local snacks, water, and plenty of places to rest. Shops selling souvenirs, clothing, and food are also scattered throughout the bazaar.
The bazaar has uneven surfaces, and the crowds can make it challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. It is more accessible for children, but extra care should be taken during busy hours.
Both cash and mobile payments (such as WeChat Pay and Alipay) are accepted in most places. It’s recommended to carry cash for smaller purchases, especially in remote stalls.
Nearby restaurants include traditional Uyghur eateries where you can enjoy dishes like kebabs, hand-pulled noodles, and polo. There are also teahouses inside the bazaar for a break with tea and snacks.
Halal food is abundant in the bazaar, with many vegetarian-friendly options, including lentil dishes, vegetable pilafs, and freshly made bread. Vegan options can be found at various food stalls as well.
There are several hotels near Kashgar Grand Bazaar, including budget guesthouses and mid-range hotels like the Grand Kashgar Hotel and the Kashgar Hotel, which offer convenient access to the bazaar.
Nearby attractions include the Id Kah Mosque, the Tomb of Apak Hoja, and the Kashgar Old Town. All of these can be easily combined into a day trip along with a visit to the bazaar.
The bazaar is full of souvenir shops selling traditional Uyghur handicrafts like carpets, textiles, spices, jewelry, and hand-painted pottery. Dried fruits and nuts are also popular items to bring home.
Taxi and bus services are readily available near the bazaar. The Kashgar Railway Station and airport are easily accessible by taxi for further travel within Xinjiang or to other regions of China.
