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Located in the heart of Kashgar's old city, west of Id Kah Square, the Id Kah Mosque is one of the largest mosques in China. This ancient Islamic architectural complex, rich in ethnic and religious influences, is not only the largest mosque in Xinjiang but also one of the largest in China.
The mosque boasts numerous magnificent Islamic buildings, all of which are worth exploring. Witnessing the five daily prayers from outside the mosque offers a truly grand spectacle and a rich religious atmosphere. Before each service, the temple's loudspeaker broadcasts the distant and ethereal call to prayer. Afterward, two to three thousand people gather for worship, and when the mosque itself can no longer accommodate them, many perform rituals outside the mosque and in the square.
The main entrance to the east side of the temple is the massive Id Kah Square, a landmark of Kashgar. On a typical day, the square is bustling with people playing games and relaxing. Bearded grandfathers and Uyghur children sit together in the sun, creating a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere.
Every Friday is Jumu'ah, and the number of worshippers here can reach 6,000 to 7,000 or even tens of thousands. The scene is very spectacular.
Recommended play time: 1-2 hours
20 yuan for ordinary tourists, free for Muslims
10:30-19:30
(The temple is not open to the public during worship time from 14:00 to 16:30)
Id Kah Mosque, built in 1442, is the largest mosque in China and a central religious site for Kashgar's Uyghur Muslim community, representing centuries of Islamic culture and regional history.
Located in Kashgar city center, Xinjiang. Accessible by taxi or local bus; walking is possible from the Old Town area.
Open daily, generally 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Best visited outside prayer times and during weekdays to avoid crowds.
Entrance is free; donations are welcome. No tickets required.
Not necessary; simply arrive during visiting hours.
1–2 hours to explore the mosque, courtyard, and nearby square.
Occasionally local guides provide tours in Chinese or English; audio guides are generally not available.
The main courtyard and mosque exterior, especially the minaret, provide iconic photo opportunities. Avoid photographing worshippers during prayers for respect.
Enter from the main gate, visit the courtyard, walk through the prayer hall (if permitted), and explore the surrounding square and markets.
Night visits and light shows are not typical; some religious festivals may feature special events.
Weekdays and non-festival periods are less crowded; Fridays and religious holidays see higher visitor numbers.
Basic public restrooms available; food and drink options are limited inside, but local vendors outside the mosque provide snacks and drinks.
Accessible for elderly and children; limited accessibility for wheelchairs due to some steps and uneven flooring.
No entrance fee, but cash may be useful for donations or local vendors; cards/mobile payments are increasingly accepted at nearby shops.
Many local Uyghur eateries and small cafes are nearby, serving traditional dishes like kebabs, naan, and pilaf.
Halal options are abundant; vegetarian options may be available at larger eateries but are less common.
Several hotels and guesthouses are located in Kashgar Old Town, ranging from budget to mid-range options.
Souvenir shops sell carpets, silk scarves, Uyghur musical instruments, and local handicrafts.
Taxi or walking to nearby attractions; buses are also available for longer distances within Kashgar.
