Xinjiang

新疆

Plan your trip to Xinjiang

Xinjiang is China's vast northwestern frontier, a region of dramatic desert landscapes, mountain ranges, and rich Silk Road history spanning over 1.6 million square kilometers. Home to diverse ethnic cultures and ancient trading routes, it offers everything from the Gobi Desert to alpine peaks and vibrant bazaars centered around the capital Urumqi. This is a destination for travelers seeking authentic Central Asian experiences and raw natural beauty.

Getting there & around

Urumqi Diwopu International Airport is the main hub, with flights connecting to major Chinese cities and limited international routes. High-speed trains link Urumqi to other regions, while long-distance buses serve smaller towns; however, distances are vast (Urumqi to Kashgar is 1,400+ km). Domestic flights between cities are often the most practical option, though renting a car with a driver is popular for exploring remote desert and mountain areas.

How long to stay

Plan for at least 10-14 days to experience Xinjiang meaningfully, as distances between attractions are enormous and travel time consumes significant portions of days. A shorter 5-7 day trip can focus on Urumqi and one or two nearby destinations, but you'll miss the region's full diversity.

When to go

Summer months (June-September) are essential—mountain passes open, desert temperatures are manageable, and weather is most stable. July-August are warmest but also most crowded; June and September offer better conditions with fewer tourists, though higher-altitude areas may still have snow.

Suggested itinerary

  1. Arrive in Urumqi — Fly into Urumqi and settle into the capital, exploring the Xinjiang Regional Museum to understand the region's history and ethnic diversity. Spend the evening wandering the Grand Bazaar (Erdaoqiao) to acclimate and sample local Uyghur cuisine.
  2. Urumqi and surroundings — Visit Tianshan Mountain scenic area for hiking and views of the Tian Shan range, or explore the Turpan Depression nearby—one of China's lowest and hottest regions with ancient ruins and grape vineyards. Return to Urumqi in the evening.
  3. Regional exploration begins — Take a flight or overnight train toward Kashgar, Khotan, or Ili Valley depending on your interests—these multi-day journeys form the backbone of any Xinjiang trip and require advance planning for onward travel and permits.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a special permit to visit Xinjiang?

Foreign visitors no longer need a special permit for most of Xinjiang as of recent years, but travel restrictions can change; check current advisories with your embassy before booking. Some remote border areas may have limited access, so confirm with your hotel or tour operator.

How many days do you need in Xinjiang?

Minimum 7-10 days if focusing on Urumqi and one or two nearby areas; 14+ days if you want to visit multiple cities like Kashgar, Khotan, or Ili. The region is massive, and travel between destinations consumes significant time.

Is Xinjiang safe for tourists?

Urumqi and major tourist cities like Kashgar are generally safe for visitors, with standard precautions; however, security presence is noticeable and travel permits may be required in some areas. Check current travel advisories from your government before planning your trip.

What language do they speak in Xinjiang?

Mandarin Chinese and Uyghur are the primary languages; Uyghur is dominant in southern Xinjiang while Mandarin is more common in Urumqi. Learning basic Mandarin phrases or using a translation app is helpful, especially outside major tourist areas.

What is the best time to visit Xinjiang?

June-September is the only practical window, with June and September offering the best balance of weather and fewer tourists. July-August are warmest but most crowded; winter temperatures can drop to -20°C in Urumqi, and many mountain passes close.

History

Xinjiang has been a crossroads of civilizations for millennia, with the ancient Silk Road trade routes passing through its oasis cities like Samarkand and Kashgar. The region was historically home to various Turkic and Indo-European peoples before coming under Chinese imperial control during the Han Dynasty. It experienced periods of independence and foreign rule, including Mongol dominion, before becoming a Chinese province in the Qing Dynasty. In the modern era, Xinjiang became an autonomous region of China in 1955 and has developed into a crucial hub for trade, energy resources, and strategic geopolitical interests.

Culture

Xinjiang is renowned for its distinctive blend of Central Asian and Chinese cultures, evident in its architecture, cuisine, and festivals. The region is home to multiple ethnic groups, predominantly Uyghur Muslims, whose traditions include vibrant bazaars, intricate crafts like carpet-weaving, and the famous Uyghur cuisine featuring lamb kebabs and hand-pulled noodles. Music and dance, particularly the energetic Uyghur and Kazakh folk performances, play a central role in local celebrations and daily life.

Language

Uyghur, a Turkic language, is widely spoken in Xinjiang alongside Mandarin Chinese, with many locals fluent in both. Learning basic Uyghur phrases like "Assalamu alaikum" (hello) and "Rakhmat" (thank you) can enhance interactions with local communities, though Mandarin remains useful for official dealings and in larger cities.

Best time to visit

Visit in summer (June-September) for open mountain passes and stable desert weather.

Places to visit

Where to eat