At the center of Kashgar is the square of Id Kah Mosque. The structure sits in the northwestern corner of the square, and represents not only the largest mosque in Xinjiang, but in all of China. During major religious festivals, it generally attracts up to 30,000 Islam devotees.

As an important trading city linking China to Central and West Asia for centuries, Kashgar has been famous for its Grand Bazaar, which is the largest comprehensive market in Xinjiang. The Grand Bazaar, also known as the Central & West Asia International Trade Fair, is located along the eastern bank of the Tuman River, near downtown Kashgar. There, almost any commodity imaginable can be found, such as textiles, clothing, daily necessities, handicrafts, furs, dried fruit, lumber, and second-hand goods.

Although the city lacks many modern amenities, the residents of Kashgar seem content with the things they have: their mosques, favorite foods, bustling bazaars, and most importantly their families and friends.  

Travel tips

Transportation: Regular daily flights link Kashgar to Urumqi, the capital of the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. Also, trains run every other day between the two cities.

Shopping: Merchants offer a wide variety of handicrafts featuring strong ethnic flavor. Favorite souvenirs include rugs, Yengisar knives, Aidelaisi silk, caps, printed fabric, pottery, ornaments, and local musical instruments. Trying local produce is highly recommended, such as guava, almonds, figs, grapes, and melons. Reminder: If you are not happy with the price when haggling, put your right hand to your left chest and bow while saying “no, thanks.”