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Shule County is located in the southwestern Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region and the northwestern Kashgar Prefecture. It lies in the central Kashgar Oasis on the western edge of the Tarim Basin and was once part of the ancient Shule Kingdom. Shule boasts abundant agricultural and sideline products, including apricots, peaches, melons, pomegranates, livestock and poultry, as well as valuable medicinal herbs such as licorice, wolfberry, ephedra, and lithospermum. It is a major grain and cotton producing area and a melon and fruit producing region in Xinjiang.
Shule County has a warm temperate continental arid climate with four distinct seasons, long sunshine hours, and large temperature differences between day and night.
Recommended play time: 1 day
Shule is a historically significant region, home to various ancient Uyghur cultures. Its location along the ancient Silk Road makes it an important cultural and trading hub, rich with Islamic and Central Asian influences.
Shule is located in Kashgar, Xinjiang, in far western China. The most convenient way to get there is by taxi or bus from Kashgar city, about 20 kilometers away. There is no metro system in this region.
Shule and its surrounding attractions are open year-round. The best time to visit is during the spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) for mild weather, avoiding the harsh summer heat or winter cold.
Entry to Shule's general attractions, such as markets and cultural sites, is typically free. However, certain attractions like the Tomb of Abakh Hoja or Karakol Lake may charge small entrance fees, which can be paid on-site.
It is generally not necessary to book tickets in advance for most of the attractions in Shule. However, for specific events or the Sunday Market, it is recommended to check schedules and plan ahead if you wish to join a guided tour or special event.
A visit to Shule can take one or two days, depending on the number of historical sites and natural attractions you wish to explore.
Guided tours are available for most major attractions in Kashgar, including Shule. Tours are primarily offered in Mandarin, but some guides may speak English or Uyghur with advance notice.
Start by exploring the Old City and its markets in the morning, then visit the Tomb of Abakh Hoja in the afternoon. Conclude the day with a relaxing trip to Karakol Lake for scenic views and outdoor activities.
Night visits are available in certain parts of Kashgar, including the Old City, which looks stunning when lit up at night. Special cultural performances may also be available depending on the time of year.
Shule is generally not as crowded as other major tourist destinations in China. The least crowded times to visit are during weekdays and outside the peak tourist seasons (summer and national holidays).
Basic facilities like toilets, small restaurants, and shops are available in and around the Old City and markets. Larger amenities can be found in Kashgar city, which is close by.
While most of the major attractions are accessible, some areas, especially the Old City and Karakol Lake, may have uneven terrain. It is advisable for elderly or disabled visitors to check accessibility options ahead of time.
Cash is widely accepted in Shule, though mobile payments such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are commonly used, especially in larger markets and businesses.
Local Uyghur restaurants are plentiful in and around Shule and Kashgar, offering dishes such as kebabs, pilaf, naan, and lamb stews. There are also small tea houses in the area.
As a predominantly Muslim region, halal food is widely available in Shule and Kashgar. Vegetarian options can also be found at many restaurants, though the focus is often on meat-based dishes.
Souvenir shops in Shule and Kashgar offer local handicrafts, such as woven carpets, textiles, spices, and Uyghur jewelry. Traditional wooden items and pottery are also common souvenirs.