
Old Town Kashgar
Step back in time in Old Town Kashgar, a 2,000-year-old Silk Road gem with winding alleys, adobe architecture, and vibrant Uyghur culture.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Atmospheric and lively

Old Town Kashgar
Best Time
Atmospheric and lively
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time in Old Town Kashgar, a 2,000-year-old Silk Road gem with winding alleys, adobe architecture, and vibrant Uyghur culture.
"The soul of Kashgar lies in its Old City, a place where ancient past meets peaceful present."

👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven surfaces. Pack your comfiest walking shoes for exploring the ancient alleys!
📸 Capture the Details
The colorful walls, intricate doors, and unique architecture are perfect for photos. Don't forget your camera!

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Ancient Alleys
Throughout the Old Town
Wander through a maze of adobe buildings, Islamic domes, and beautifully designed doors and windows. A photographer's dream!

Bazaar Exploration
Various themed streets
Discover unique crafts, local snacks like naan, and vibrant street life in themed bazaars like Blacksmith Street or Flower & Hat Street.

Local Flavors
Street food stalls and eateries
Savor freshly squeezed pomegranate juice, delicious lamb kebabs, and the famous Big Plate Chicken. Don't miss the goat milk ice cream!

Evening Ambiance
Throughout the Old Town
Experience the magical transformation of the old town as it lights up at night, with live performers adding to the lively atmosphere.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Labyrinth
Cash is King, but Cards are Growing
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven surfaces. Pack your comfiest walking shoes for exploring the ancient alleys!
📸 Capture the Details
The colorful walls, intricate doors, and unique architecture are perfect for photos. Don't forget your camera!
💰 Carry Some Cash
While ATMs exist, many small vendors prefer cash. Essential for street food and souvenirs.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Especially during warmer months, grab some freshly squeezed pomegranate juice or water from vendors.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven surfaces. Pack your comfiest walking shoes for exploring the ancient alleys!
📸 Capture the Details
The colorful walls, intricate doors, and unique architecture are perfect for photos. Don't forget your camera!
💰 Carry Some Cash
While ATMs exist, many small vendors prefer cash. Essential for street food and souvenirs.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Especially during warmer months, grab some freshly squeezed pomegranate juice or water from vendors.
🤝 Engage with Locals
Many locals are friendly and welcoming. A smile and a few basic phrases can go a long way.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the authentic charm and historical significance of Old Town Kashgar, describing it as the soul of the city. The labyrinthine alleys, vibrant bazaars, and delicious local cuisine are consistently praised. While some note tight security, the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive, offering a unique glimpse into Silk Road heritage and Uyghur culture.
"The old city is beautiful and conveniently located close to the business and commercial precinct. There are plenty of small, narrow streets to walk through and experience what living was like there. There's the usual strips of vendors inside where you can find anything that you fancy: try the freshly squeezed pomegranate juice. Surprisingly, there's an elevated strip of bars where you can buy food, liquid refreshments, and listen to live performers. We found some hidden gems offering accommodation within the old city that are less hotel/BnB and more exquisite works of art."
Simon Harris
"Kashgar Old City - Where the Soul of Kashgar Lies
I Love this place.
The Ancient City of Kashgar is classified as an AAAAA site, which means it's one of China's best places to visit. The Ministry of Culture and Tourism
Kashgar Old City (喀什老城), or Kashgar Ancient City, is located in the center of Kashgar, covering an area of 4.25 square kilometers, with about 126800 residents. Presenting a vivid picture of Xinjiang Uygur folk customs, it is said that the soul of Kashgar lies in Kashgar Old City. It represents the ancient past and peaceful present of the city. The ancient city of Kashgar, formerly known as Shule, has a history of more than 2000 years. Local residences and shops line along the crisscross streets, forming the only labyrinth-like urban blocks characterized in Islamic culture in China. Now it is a AAAAA tourist site and a must-see in Kashgar.
Wandering Through the Crisscross Lanes & Immersing in Local Atmosphere
Kashgar Old City is about 2 km in length and width with many streets and alleys you can walk at will. Most of the buildings in the old city have been renovated but the local features have been retained. The colorful walls, round arches, beautifully designed door and windows offer perfect background for your picture.
In addition to the architecture, many characteristic shops on the streets are also worth a visit. Almost every street in the old city has its own theme, which is called bazaars (means “market” in Uygur). There is Cantuman Bazaar (Blacksmith Street), Dopa Bazaar (Flower & Hat Street), Flowerpot Bazaar, Handicraft Bazaar, Pottery Bazaar, etc. There are also vendors of special snacks such as grapes, Nang (staple food of the Uygur and Kazak nationalities), and goat milk ice cream that you can have a try when shopping.
Some residences are available to visit. You can see what it is like inside the typical local house but usually you need to buy some products sold there. In the streets of the old city, the elderly people are basking in the sun and the children are playing around, which makes people unconsciously want to stay and linger a little longer.
Opening Hours: All day
Tickets: Free (CNY 45 to Id Kah Mosque)
Address: No. 10 Yawage Road, Kashgar City 喀什地区喀什市亚瓦格路10号"
Akram Posh
"delightful experience you will have a lot of fun. There are some clean toilets, free, and ATM cash machines that accept international cards. It’s a lot of fun, particularly in the evening see videos."
George Benaroya
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Old Town Kashgar is centrally located within Kashgar city. You can reach it by taxi or local bus from Kashgar Airport (KHG) or Kashgar Railway Station. Many visitors also choose to stay in accommodations within or very close to the old town, making it easily accessible on foot.
The old town is a labyrinth of narrow, winding streets. While this adds to its charm, it can be disorienting. It's recommended to have a map or use a GPS app, but also embrace getting a little lost to discover hidden gems.
Walking is the best way to experience the old town's atmosphere. You can spend hours wandering through the alleys, discovering local shops, and soaking in the culture. Some visitors also enjoy cycling through certain areas.
Yes, guided tours are available and can provide valuable historical context and insights into the local culture. You can often find guides near the main entrances or arrange them through your accommodation.
Yes, local buses and taxis are readily available in Kashgar city and can take you to the vicinity of the Old Town. Once there, exploration is primarily on foot.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the Old Town itself is generally free. However, there might be separate entrance fees for specific attractions within or near the old town, such as the Id Kah Mosque (around CNY 45).
The Old Town is typically open all day, allowing for exploration at any time. However, individual shops and restaurants will have their own operating hours, with many coming alive in the evenings.
Yes, you can visit mosques like the Id Kah Mosque, which is a prominent landmark. Be sure to dress respectfully, covering your shoulders and knees, and be mindful of prayer times.
Security can be present in the area, and visitors are advised to be aware of local regulations. It's always a good idea to check for any updated advisories before your visit.
Souvenirs are abundant throughout the old town, especially in the themed bazaars. You'll find handicrafts, textiles, local snacks, and more. Haggling is often part of the experience.
📸 📸 Photography
Every corner of Old Town Kashgar offers a photographic opportunity! Focus on the intricate details of the adobe architecture, the vibrant bazaars, local people (always ask permission before photographing individuals), and the stunning evening light.
It's generally polite to ask for permission before taking close-up photos of individuals, especially elders. Many locals are happy to be photographed, but respect their privacy if they decline.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer beautiful, soft light for photography. Evenings are also magical as the old town lights up, creating a unique ambiance.
Drone usage is often restricted in populated areas and historical sites. It's best to check local regulations regarding drone photography before your visit to avoid any issues.
A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for capturing both wide shots of the alleys and details. A prime lens can be useful for low-light situations in the evenings. Don't forget extra batteries and memory cards!
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
You absolutely must try the freshly squeezed pomegranate juice, lamb kebabs, Big Plate Chicken, and the local staple, Nang (Uygur bread). Goat milk ice cream is also a unique treat!
Look for small, local eateries and street food stalls within the old town. The themed bazaars often have vendors selling delicious snacks and meals. Don't be afraid to try places that look busy with locals.
While meat dishes are prevalent, you can often find vegetarian options like vegetable stir-fries, salads, and bread. Nang is a great vegetarian staple. Inquire about ingredients if you have dietary restrictions.
Most restaurants and food stalls operate throughout the day, but the old town truly comes alive with food options in the evening. Many places stay open late to cater to the evening crowds.
While the focus is on local Uyghur cuisine, you might find some restaurants catering to a broader range of tastes, especially in more tourist-oriented areas. However, embracing the local food is highly recommended.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep in mind that the terrain can be uneven, so strollers might be challenging. Consider carrying younger children or using a carrier. The evenings are particularly lively with street performers, which can be entertaining for all ages. Ensure everyone stays hydrated, especially during warmer months.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Many of the most rewarding experiences, like wandering the alleys and soaking in the atmosphere, cost nothing. Focus on enjoying the local culture and cuisine without overspending on tourist traps. Carrying cash will also help you negotiate prices at the bazaars.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Plan to shoot during the golden hours for soft, dramatic light. The evenings, when the old town is illuminated, offer a magical ambiance. Don't forget to capture portraits of the local people (with permission!) and the details of the crafts and food.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Silk Road Legacy
This rich history is palpable as you wander through the streets. You can almost imagine the caravans laden with silk, spices, and precious metals passing through. The blend of Islamic architectural influences with traditional Uyghur design speaks to the cultural exchange that defined the Silk Road era. Exploring the themed bazaars, each with its own specialty, further connects you to the city's mercantile heritage.
While many structures have been renovated to preserve the town's character, the essence of its Silk Road legacy remains. It's a place where history isn't just in museums; it's in the very fabric of the streets and the lives of the people who call it home.
Experiencing Uyghur Culture
The heart of Uyghur daily life can be observed in the bustling bazaars, where traditional crafts, music, and food are central. You'll encounter artisans practicing age-old crafts, vendors selling local delicacies like Nang and spiced lamb skewers, and perhaps even witness traditional Uyghur dance performances. Engaging with locals, even with a language barrier, can offer genuine insights into their way of life.
Visiting the century-old tea houses provides a glimpse into social gatherings and the importance of tea culture. The sounds of traditional music, like the Rawap, can often be heard, adding to the immersive cultural experience. Old Town Kashgar is not just a historical site; it's a living, breathing cultural landscape.
A Photographer's Paradise
The vibrant colors of the local markets, the intricate patterns on textiles, and the warm expressions of the local people (always remember to ask permission!) provide rich subjects. The evening transformation of the old town, with its warm lighting and lively atmosphere, offers a completely different, yet equally stunning, photographic experience.
Beyond the visual aesthetics, capturing the essence of daily life – from artisans at work to elders relaxing in the sun – allows for storytelling through your lens. Whether you're using a smartphone or a professional camera, Old Town Kashgar promises a wealth of unforgettable images.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit