Kashgar Old City
Kashgar Old City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a vibrant labyrinth of winding alleys, clay-brick homes, and bustling bazaars that has preserved its cultural identity for over two millennia. Nestled in the far west of China’s Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, this ancient settlement serves as a bridge between East and West, blending Uyghur, Tajik, and Han Chinese traditions. Covering 3.6 square kilometers, the Old City’s maze-like streets, adobe architecture, and time-honored crafts offer a glimpse into a way of life largely unchanged by modernity.
Historical Overview
2nd Century BCE: Emerged as a key Silk Road trading post, thriving under the Han Dynasty’s Western Regions administration.
7th–8th Century CE: Flourished as a cultural and commercial hub under the Tang Dynasty and the Umayyad Caliphate.
15th Century: Rebuilt after destruction by Timur’s armies, adopting the iconic “Ladder Houses” (multi-story homes with stepped terraces).
1949–Present: Preserved through urban renewal projects, including the 2009 renovation that maintained traditional layouts while improving infrastructure.
2015: Recognized as a UNESCO site for its “outstanding universal value” in cultural heritage.
Structural Layout
The Old City’s architecture reflects its role as a crossroads of civilizations
Id Kah Mosque Quarter: The city’s spiritual heart, centered around the largest mosque in Central Asia, with intricate tilework and minarets.
Apak Hoja Tomb Complex: A pilgrimage site featuring the “Fragrant Concubine’s” mausoleum, known for its blue-tiled dome and lush gardens.
Bazaar District: The heart of commerce, with sections dedicated to carpets, spices, copperware, and traditional Uyghur instruments.
Residential Alleys: Narrow lanes lined with “Ladder Houses,” where families live, work, and socialize on terraced rooftops.
Handicraft Streets: Specialized zones for woodcarving, pottery, and embroidery, where artisans practice centuries-old techniques.
Major Attractions
Id Kah Mosque: A 15th-century masterpiece blending Islamic and Central Asian styles, accommodating 10,000 worshippers.
Apak Hoja Mausoleum: Famed for its mosaic-clad domes and the legend of the “Fragrant Concubine,” a 17th-century poetess.
Sunday Livestock Bazaar: The region’s largest animal market, where herders trade sheep, camels, and horses amid colorful negotiations.
Kashgar Night Bazaar: A sensory feast of roasted meats, fresh naan, and Uyghur folk music under string lights.
Old City Wall Remnants: Sections of the 16th-century fortifications, offering panoramic views of the labyrinth below.
Cultural Highlights
Twelve Muqam Performances: Epic Uyghur musical suites showcased at the Old City’s cultural centers, blending poetry, dance, and instrumentals.
Coppersmith Workshops: Watch artisans hammer intricate designs into kettles
idery Houses: Admire atlas silk textiles, hand-stitched with geometric patterns inspired by desert flora.
Rooftop Tea Sessions: Join locals for green tea and dried fruits on terraced rooftops, overlooking the clay-tiled skyline.
Suggested Itineraries
Half-Day Exploration (3–4 Hours)
Morning: Start at Id Kah Mosque → Stroll the Bazaar District → Visit a Coppersmith Workshop.
Afternoon: Explore the Apak Hoja Complex → Sample street food at the Night Bazaar.
Full-Day Immersion (6–8 Hours)
Morning: Tour the Handicraft Streets → Attend a Muqam performance → Lunch at a Uyghur homestay.
Afternoon: Wander residential alleys → Visit the Sunday Bazaar (if applicable) → Sunset at the Old City Wall.
Evening: Dinner at a rooftop restaurant, enjoying traditional laghman noodles and kebabs.
Cultural Depth Journey (2 Days)
Day 1: Focus on architecture: Old City Wall → Id Kah Mosque → Apak Hoja → Evening tea ceremony.
Day 2: Dive into crafts: Coppersmithing → Embroidery → Pottery-making → Night Bazaar shopping.
Practical Information
Ticket Purchase
Entry Fees: Most sites free; Apak Hoja Mausoleum ¥45.
Guided Tours: ¥200–300 for half-day English tours (book via local agencies).
Transportation
By Air: Kashgar Airport (KHG) is 10 km from the Old City; taxis cost ¥30.
By Train: High-speed rail connects to Ürümqi (14 hours); local trains to nearby cities.
On Foot: The Old City is best explored on foot; wear comfortable shoes for cobblestones.
Best Time & Tips
Avoid Crowds: Visit weekdays or early mornings; weekends and holidays draw large crowds.
Seasonal Highlights: Spring (Apr–May) for blooming apricot trees; autumn (Sep–Oct) for mild weather.
Essentials: Respect local customs (remove shoes in mosques); carry cash for small vendors.
Photography: Ask permission before photographing people; some workshops prohibit cameras.
Prohibited Items: Drones require prior permission; avoid public displays of affection.
FAQ
How can one travel from Kashgar City to Kashgar Old City?
It is within walking distance of downtown Kashgar. Taxis, buses, or bike-sharing services are also available, with fares starting at 5 yuan.
What are the operating hours of the night market in Kashgar Old City?
The night market runs from 6:00 PM to midnight (April-October), offering street food, souvenirs, and live entertainment.
What shopping options are available in Kashgar Old City?
Buy local crafts like Uyghur knives, carpets, and embroidery from the Handicraft Street or the Sunday Market.
What traditional handicraft experiences are available for visitors?
Explore workshops along Handicraft Street near Id Kah Mosque to watch artisans create copper kettles, musical instruments, and traditional Uyghur hats (dopas). Some shops offer hands-on sessions, allowing you to try pottery or metalwork under guidances.
How do time zones and climate affect travel in Kashgar?
Time Zone: Kashgar is 2 hours behind Beijing time (e.g., 10:00 AM in Beijing = 8:00 AM in Kashgar). Climate: Summers are hot (30–40°C), winters cold (-10–5°C). Layer clothing and carry sunscreen/hats year-round.
