Hotan Night Market

Introducing Hotan Night Market

Hotan Night Market is a famous night market in Hotan City, Xinjiang. It is located about 110 meters northwest of the Hetian International Hotel on Tunken Road, Hotan City, Hotan Prefecture, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region.

The Hotan Night Market offers a wide variety of delicious dishes, such as red willow barbecue, yogurt rice dumplings, baked eggs, baked buns, and roasted whole lamb, showcasing the simple, natural, and natural culinary traditions of the local cuisine. The market also features ethnic performances, allowing visitors to savor the food while enjoying song and dance performances and immerse themselves in the cultural atmosphere of Hotan. The Hotan Night Market has become a tourist attraction, attracting numerous visitors.

Climate and best time to travel

The best time to visit Hotan Night Market is from March to November

Spring (March to May): As temperatures gradually warm up, night markets come alive. Enjoy the sights of spring while savoring a variety of delicious food.

Summer (June to August): Hotan experiences high temperatures in the summer, but the nights are relatively cool, and the night market is bustling with activity. Enjoy a variety of delicious food, singing and dancing performances, and soak up the rich cultural atmosphere.

Autumn (September to November): Autumn offers pleasant weather and comfortable temperatures, making it a great time to visit the Hotan Night Market. Enjoy the fresh fruits and vegetables during this time of year, as the fruit harvest is plentiful.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

【Recommended Activities】

→ Savor delicious food

Hotan Night Market is famous for its rich and diverse cuisine. You can enjoy a variety of local specialties, including grilled lamb kebabs, roasted pigeon, roasted lamb liver, roasted lamb intestines, roasted whole lamb, naan pit meat, yogurt rice dumplings, and baked eggs. In addition, there are also special drinks such as pomegranate juice and kava.

→Enjoy the song and dance performance

There are usually wonderful singing and dancing performances at night markets, where you can enjoy music and dance with Xinjiang characteristics and feel the rich cultural atmosphere.

→Buy unique souvenirs

At the night market, you can also buy some souvenirs with Hotan characteristics, such as handicrafts, special snacks, etc., as a souvenir of your trip.

【Recommended Play Time】

2-3 hours

Tickets

Free and open

Attraction opening hours

Opening hours are 18:00-24:00

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Most Popular FAQs for Hotan Night Market

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Hotan Night Market reflects the rich Uyghur culture and traditions of Hotan city. It serves as a social and commercial hub, preserving traditional crafts and offering a glimpse into local life along the Silk Road.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

The market is located in central Hotan city. Visitors can reach it by taxi, local buses, or on foot if staying nearby. Parking is limited, so public transport or walking is recommended.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The market generally opens in the evening around 6 PM and continues until 11 PM. The best time to visit is after 7 PM when the market is lively and fully operational.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

Entrance is free. Visitors do not need tickets; purchases are made directly from vendors.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

No advance booking is required.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

1–2 hours is sufficient to explore the main sections of the market and enjoy the local food.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• Street food stalls offering local delicacies.
• Handicraft sections with Uyghur carpets, jewelry, and traditional clothing.
• Fruit and nut vendors selling Hotan specialty products.
• Small souvenir shops showcasing Silk Road-inspired crafts.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are rare; most visitors explore independently. Some local guides offer Mandarin or English explanations upon request.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Colorful food stalls with illuminated signs at night.
• Craft vendor sections with vibrant textiles and Uyghur carpets.
• Crowded walkways showing the bustling night market atmosphere.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

• Start at the food stalls to sample local snacks.
• Proceed to handicraft and souvenir sections.
• Walk through the fruit and nut vendors.
• End with a casual stroll along the illuminated market streets to capture photos.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

The market is primarily a night activity. No official light shows exist, but evening shopping and cultural experiences create a lively ambiance.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The market can be crowded on weekends and holidays. Weekdays and earlier evenings are less busy.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Basic amenities such as food stalls and shops are available. Public toilets may be limited; bring water and small essentials.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The market is mostly pedestrian-friendly but may be crowded. Elderly and children can visit with supervision. Accessibility for wheelchairs is limited.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is preferred. Mobile payments via apps like Alipay or WeChat may be accepted by some vendors.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Nearby Hotan city has local Uyghur restaurants, tea houses, and small cafes offering traditional dishes and snacks.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Halal food is widely available. Vegetarian or vegan options exist but may be limited in variety.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Several budget and mid-range hotels are available within walking distance in central Hotan, including guesthouses and small inns.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• Hotan Museum for local history and Silk Road artifacts.
• Id Kah Mosque in Hotan city.
• Traditional bazaars and nearby silk and jade workshops.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, selling Uyghur carpets, silk scarves, jade jewelry, traditional crafts, and local snacks.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

• Taxi or car rental to explore other Hotan attractions.
• Local buses for nearby city destinations.
• Walking to nearby hotels or markets within the city center.