Discover the Charm of Kashgar Old Town: What to See & Do

Written by Veronica | Updated September 30,2025

A vital hub on the ancient Silk Road, Kashgar Old Town (aka Kashgar Ancient City) is located in Kashgar Prefecture, Xinjiang. For thousands of years, it had served as a melting pot for cultural exchange between Central Asia, West Asia, and South Asia.

With its rich history and cultural heritage, this ancient city is a can’t-miss to experience the essential cultural allure of Xinjiang. It boasts the most exotic ancient city in China, with its rustic dwellings, labyrinthine alleys, and traditional workshops altogether exuding a traditional Central Asian ambiance.

Planning a trip to Kashgar Old Town in China? That means you will walk into the life of the local Uyghur ethnic group, sip a cup of tea in the century-old teahouse, listen to local elders narrate the stories of the old city, and watch ethnic performances by local folk artists…

Fast Facts of Kashgar Old Town

Location: In the heart of Kashgar, Xinjiang, China
Opening Hours:All day
Ticket Price: Free for entrance, some historical relics require tickets.
Area: Approximately 20square kilometers
Time Needed: 1-2 days
Highlights: Traditional architecture, narrow alleyways, markets, local cuisine, and cultural traditions of local Uyghur people.
Suited to: People interested in exploring the history, culture, and traditions of Xinjiang.

Xinjiang Kashgar Old Town — Welcome Ceremony in Kashgar Old Town

History of Kashgar Old Town

According to the record, as early as the 2nd century BCE, when Zhang Qian of the Western Han Dynasty was sent on a diplomatic mission to the Western Region, Kashgar Ancient City had served as a crucial hub. Throughout its long history, it has remained an important outpost for the government of the Central Plains to intervene in the affairs of the western areas. This contributes to it being a pivotal junction along the ancient Silk Road and facilitates the vibrant cultural exchange between East and West in this area.

Things to Do in Kashgar Old City

Walk Through Labyrinthine Alleys & Explore Beautiful Uyghur Architecture

Ancient City of Kashgar has been listed as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site for being the largest and most complete Islamic architectural complex in China. With nearly 200 narrow alleys twisting through numerous Uyghur houses, the dwelling district of the city is just like a labyrinth, evoking a sense of mystery.

As you stroll around the ancient city, you will inevitably be drawn to the colorful Uyghur dwellings. Each dwelling is in vibrant colors and decorated with elaborate wood carvings, iron art, and intricate brick decorations. These structures are testaments of the Uyghur people’s enthusiasm for life.

Most of the houses are wood or brick frame structures, and have witnessed a history of over one hundred years.

√Related reading: The Silk Road Stories

Xinjiang Kashgar Ancient Town — Neighborhoods in Kashgar Ancient Town

Enjoy Leisure Time in Kashgar Century-old Teahouse

The teahouse is a two-story building on the Wusitang Boyi Road in Kashgar Old City. The decoration of the building exudes typical ethnic charm, with raised platforms known as “kang” being built along the walls to provide cozy seating for customers.

It is a haunt for locals to engage in leisurely conversations, and play musical instruments. More than just a cultural landmark, the Century-old Teahouse offers a glimpse into local’s daily life and human connection. Here visitors can not only savor authentic Uyghur tea, but also appreciate traditional performances by local folk artists, and immerse themselves in the vibrant cultural atmosphere.

Learn Traditions of Islam at Id Kah Mosque

The Id Kah Mosque is one of the largest mosques in Central Asia which can date back the Ming Dynasty. The mosque is in typical Islamic architectural style, being impressive for its imposing façade of yellow brick and white trim. The mosque is comprised of structures such as the gatehouse, main prayer hall, minaret, courtyards, and ablution rooms.

From the main entrance of the mosque, visitors will be led to the Id Kah Square where local Muslims gather for prayers, festivals, and ceremonies. If you visit here on grand festivals, you may encounter a jubilant atmosphere and celebration here.

Beyond its religious significance, Id Kah Mosque also stands as a witness to the vicissitudes of Kashgar.

Discover Diverse Traditional Crafts

A haven for authentic Xinjiang craftsmanship, the Handicrafts Street in Kashgar Old Down is teemed with shops of marvelous handicrafts. These handicrafts not only serve as visual delights but also the remarkable ingenuity of the local people.

Wool tapestry is one of the most outstanding treasures here. All the tapestries are crafted with traditional weaving techniques, featuring vibrant colors, soft textures, and intricate patterns.

Copper craftsmanship is another highlight of Kashgar’s craftsmanship. They are popular for their impeccable casting techniques and delicate designs.

Other noteworthy handicrafts in Kashgar include embroidery and jade carving, gold and silver jewelry, woodcarvings, and wine flasks. Visitors can buy some of the handicrafts either as souvenirs or for home use.

Xinjiang Kashgar Handicrafts Market — Exquisite souvenirs on Handicrafts Market

Join in the Opening Ceremony

Enjoy the Opening Ceremony The opening ceremony is a lively event at the eastern gate of Kashgar Old Town. It usually commences with an introduction to the rich history of Kashgar ancient town. After that, the audience will be invited to join in the local dance called “Mai Xilai Fu”. Following the dance, you can enjoy lively performances from some prominent figures in Kashgar’s history, including Zhang Qian, and Uncle Maimaiti, etc.

The opening ceremony is held twice daily at 10:00 AM and 6:00 PM. Additional shows will be arranged during peak tourist seasons.

Recommended Xinjiang Tours including Ancient City of Kashgar:

Best Time to Visit

Generally, spring and autumn are the best times to visit Kashgar when the weather is mild and comfortable.

Spring (March to May) is the time when the ancient city comes alive with blooming flowers, and also the time when many folk events are held.

In autumn (September to November), the weather is still pleasant, and the streets and alleys are blanketed with golden leaves. It is also the time to savore a large amount of fresh local fruits.

How to Choose Hotels in Kashgar

The Ancient Town is divided into east part and west part. If you prefer the lively atmosphere and plan to spoil yourself in bars at night, hotels near the East Gate are recommended. If you prefer a quiet environment, accommodations near the West Gate are better. Below are some popular accommodation options:

Hotels:

Kashgar Old City Scenic Area Meiju Hotel: Located at 272 Renmin East Road; offers rooms overlooking the entire city.
Hengyuan Hotel (Kashgar Old City People’s Square Branch): offers comfortable accommodation, near to the Century-old Teahouse.

Guesthouses:

Guli’s Home: with daily Uighur song and dance performances; prices are resonable; transformed from an old house.
Ulanduo Guesthouse: in Bohemian style; has a rooftop terrace offering panoramic views of the city.
Huajianli Guesthouse: slightly higher priced; features an artistic ambiance

How to Get to Kashgar Old Town

Visitors can conveniently get to Kashgar Old City by plane, train or bus.

By Plane:

You can fly directly from Urumqi, Beijing, and Shanghai to Kashgar airport which is about 15 km from the old city. It is easy to take a taxi or bus to reach.

By Train:

The nearest train station to the ancient city is Kashgar Railway Station. You can take a train from Urumqi, Lanzhou, Xian, and other major cities in XInjiang to Kashgar first, then, reach the old city by taxi or bus. The train station is about 8 km away.

Attractions Nearby Kashgar Old Town

Abakh Khoja Tomb: Located nearby, the Abakh Khoja Tomb is a historic mausoleum that offers a glimpse into the history and culture of the region.
Karakul Lake: Located approximately 200 kilometers from Kashgar, Karakul Lake is a stunning alpine lake that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and scenery.
Id Kah Mosque: a historic mosque that offers a unique glimpse into the Islamic heritage of Xinjiang
Kashgar Sunday Market: see the traditional trading methods and savor authentic local food.

What to Eat in Kashgar Old Town

Food in Kashgar Old Town is a direct and tasty expression of the region’s cultural identity. Influenced by Uyghur, Central Asian, and Islamic culinary traditions, Kashgar dishes are full of flavor, color, and history coming from all different regions. Walking through the old alleys, and you’ll catch the scent of grilled lamb and freshly baked naan mixed and drifting over from restaurants and family-run food stalls.

Must-Try Dishes in Kashgar Old Town:

Roast Lamb (Kao Yangrou): A tender and flavorful meal. It can be served as a main course if the lamb is cooked as a whole, however, it can also be a kind of snack if the lamb is sliced and cooked on skewers.
Polo (Uyghur Pilaf): A hearty rice dish cooked with carrots, onions, and lamb or beef.
Laghman (Hand-Pulled Noodles): Stir-fried noodles with beef and seasonal vegetables.
Nang (Uyghur Flatbread): A crispy yet chewy staple, which would be served with soups or meat.
Samsa: Baked pastries filled with minced meat and onions.
Xinjiang Yogurt: Rich, creamy, and served cold — a perfect treat after a day’s walk or after having a rather heavy meal.
Dried fruits and nuts: Especially figs, raisins, almonds, and apricots, often sold by local vendors.

Cultural Context and Demographics

Kashgar Old Town is widely regarded as the cultural heart of the Uyghur people in Xinjiang. The most authentic parts of traditions and local life have all been left in its alleys. Except for the Uyghurs people, there are still many other ethnic communities (e.g., Han Chinese, Hui Muslims, Kyrgyz, and Tajiks) living here. Indeed, it has become a culturally diverse area since the Silk Road period, and by the time, different groups all near areas would interact and trade in this important crossroad. And that’s why Kashgar Old Town can have such a unique cultural landscape.

Essential Travel Tips for Visitors

Respect at Religious Sites: When visiting mosques like Id Kah Mosque, dress modestly. That generally means at lease wear clothes that can coveryour shoulders and knees. Sometimes women may need a headscarf in some mosques. Remove shoes before entering prayer halls (if you’re not sure, just see what other people do and do the same). Avoid walking in front of people during prayer.
Visiting Hours / Prayer Times:Mosques may close or restrict tourist access during prayer times. So if you plan to visit these sites, it’s better to check ahead for hours for prayer and festival times, especially during Ramadan or major Islamic holidays.
Photography Etiquette:Always ask for permission before photographing private residents. Avoid taking photos in restricted private places or religious spaces without consent.
Clothing & Weather: Kashgarsees major temperature swings during a day. So usually the daytime can be really hot, and when nights fall, you’ll then feel relatively cooler. To avoid catching cold or other similar sickness, pack layered clothing and also breathable fabrics.
Language and Communication:Uyghur is the dominant local language in Kashgar Old Town. While mandarin is also used, English is less common than in other tourist cities. It helps to learn basic phrases or have a translation tool.
Cash & Payments:Small vendors and traditional markets often prefer cash (RMB) or Wechat pay and Alipay. Credit cards may not be accepted everywhere. Carry enough cash can be suitable for you.

FAQs about Kashgar Old Town

Is Kashgar Old Town the same as Gaotai Residential Area?

Yes, Gaotai Residential Area is part of the broader Kashgar Old Town and it is also one of the most traditional and well-preserved parts of the old town. This area still has authentic Uyghur dwellings built on a raised platform (Gaotai), with some homes dating back hundreds of years. When people refer to the “real” old town, this is usually what they mean.

Can I take photos in the old town?

Absolutely. Photography is allowed throughout Kashgar Old Town. The winding alleys, decorated wooden doors, and children playing in courtyards all offer amazing angles and photo opportunities. However, it’s always polite and needed to ask for permission before taking close-up photos of residents or inside private homes.

What can I do in Kashgar Old Town at night?

In the evening, Kashgar Old Town will be beautifully lit, and there are also some alleys host various cultural shows or spontaneous music performances. You can enjoy:

Traditional Uyghur music and dance in teahouses
Evening strolls under lantern light
Local snack like lamb skewers and baked pastries
Bars and cafes near the East Gate with a view of the city lights.

Are the locals friendly? Will they talk to visitors?

Yes, the Uyghur people are known for their warmth and hospitality. Many residents are curious about and enjoy interacting with travelers, especially if you show a heartfelt interest in their culture or crafts.

Explore Kashgar Old City with Us

Exploring Kashgar Old Town on your own is certainly rewarding, but joining a guided tour offers deeper insight into its hidden stories, cultural symbols, and daily traditions. With the help of our local experts, you’ll gain better access to private homes, artisan workshops, and less-visited courtyards.

Traveling with China Xian Tour can ensure you to explore all the highlights of the town. Our customized itinerary is designed to fulfill all of your expectation in a smooth and comfortable way. With our local experts being there for you 24/7, every moment of your journey will be satisfying and unforgettable.