Looks like I've returned, exhausted and speechless, all the truth!

Returned from Kashgar, exhausted (actually promised to go), all the truth

Just came back from Kashgar, really tired but totally worth it! I've put together a concise guide, all straightforward advice, save it quickly～

🚗 Transportation:

- Plane: Close to the city center, 20 minutes by taxi, the time-saving first choice.
- Train: The "Kashgar" train departs in the evening and arrives in the morning, comfortable sleeper, scenic route, but takes a long time.
- Self-drive/Charter: Suitable for independent travel, stop and play anytime, but the journey is long, plan routes and rest stops in advance.

🏠 Accommodation:

- Inside the Old City: Many homestays, experience local customs (recommended Youjian Jiangnan, Wulanduo), downside is dragging luggage and finding your way is troublesome.
- Around the Old City: Convenient transportation, full hotel facilities (like Radisson Blu, Hilton Hampton), but lacks the Old City atmosphere.

🍱 Food:

- Baked Baozi: Aizimaiti Baked Baozi Shop, crispy crust, tender and juicy lamb filling.
- Hand-pulled Rice: Ailizati Pilaf Restaurant, fragrant rice and meat, mixed with the sweetness of carrots and raisins.
- Jar Meat: Aini Pure Lamb BBQ, slow-cooked in small jars, eaten with naan, warming and delicious.
- BBQ: Any street stall won’t disappoint, big tender meat skewers sprinkled with fragrant cumin.
- Pigeon Soup: Kaimeierding Blue Pigeon House, fresh soup and tender pigeon, set meals offer multiple flavors.

📸 Attractions:

- Kashgar Old City: Adobe buildings, strong exotic atmosphere. Watch the East Gate opening ceremony at 10:30 (closed Mondays), visit century-old teahouses, feed pigeons at Id Kah Square, more charming when lit up at night.
- Xiangfei Garden: Learn about the legend of Xiangfei and local customs, watch performances, experience minority weddings.
- Gao Tai Residences: Houses built on cliffs, some areas under maintenance, check opening status before visiting.
- Kashgar Museum: For those wanting to understand Kashgar’s history, hiring a guide is recommended.

🗺️ Nearby Tours:

- Baisha Lake: Blue water with white sand and snow-capped mountains, every shot looks like a masterpiece.
- Mustagh Glacier Park: See glaciers up close, high altitude so beware of altitude sickness, those with low stamina can ride horses (100 RMB one way per person).
- Panlong Ancient Road: 30 km with over 600 bends, spectacular, with the good meaning "After all the detours, life is smooth."

❗ Notes:

- Sun and Sand Protection: Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, hats, and masks in spring to prevent dust.
- Respect Customs: No loud noises in religious places, women advised to wear long pants or skirts.
- Food: Cuisine is oily and spicy, sensitive stomachs should eat moderately, drink plenty of water to prevent dryness.
- Travel: Easy to get lost in Old City alleys, visit during the day; negotiate taxi fares or ask for meter.
- Best Time: April to June, September to October for comfortable weather.
- Carry Cash: Some small shops only accept cash.
- Photography: Smile and ask locals before taking photos, respect their wishes.

Kashgar’s culture and natural scenery are amazing, definitely worth a visit, start planning now!