Local Customs & Etiquette in Ürümqi, Xinjiang, China
1. Kumtoux (Grand Bazaar)
A bustling marketplace selling local goods like cotton products, silk, and Uighur handicrafts. Etiquette requires patience and haggling is expected.
- Haggling: Prices are often negotiable.
- Patience: Be prepared to spend time navigating the market.
- Respectful Negotiation: Avoid being too aggressive during price negotiations.
2. Id Kah Mosque
An important mosque for the Uighur community. Visitors should wear modest clothing and remove shoes before entering.
- Modest Clothing: Cover arms and legs, and avoid revealing clothes.
- Removing Shoes: Prepare to remove your shoes before entering the mosque.
- Respectful Behavior: Be quiet and respectful while inside the mosque.
3. Eid Sugur (Ramadan Fast-breaking Feast)
A traditional Uighur celebration marking the end of Ramadan. Visitors are welcome but should be sensitive to religious customs.
- Respect for Religious Practices: Understand and respect the significance of this event.
- Invitation Etiquette: Accept an invitation graciously if offered.
- Dress Code: Modest clothing is appreciated during such events.
4. Uyghur Tea Ceremony
A traditional Uighur hospitality ritual involving green tea and pastries. It's important to accept the offer gracefully.
- Accepting Offers: Graciously accept the tea and pastries when offered.
- Patience: The ceremony can take some time, be patient.
- Reciprocity: Offering something in return is considered polite.
5. Sunday Bazaar (Niyazi Bazaar)
A marketplace selling a variety of goods, especially food. Be prepared for crowded conditions and haggling is expected.
- Haggling: Prices are often negotiable.
- Crowded Conditions: Expect large crowds, especially on Sundays.
- Patience: Be prepared to spend time navigating the market.
6. Xinjiang Regional Uyghur Autonomous Government
The regional government building with strict security measures. Dress appropriately and follow instructions from authorities.
- Appropriate Dress: Avoid revealing clothing.
- Security Measures: Follow instructions from security personnel.
- Respect for Government Buildings: Treat the building with respect.
7. Huocheng Flower Market
A colorful market selling a variety of flowers and plants. Bargaining is expected but be mindful of the vendor's time.
- Bargaining: Prices are often negotiable.
- Mindfulness: Be aware of the vendor's time and don't take too long to decide.
- Respectful Bargaining: Avoid being too aggressive during price negotiations.
8. Saturday Walking Street (Nishani Han)
A pedestrian street filled with food stalls, souvenirs, and entertainment. It's a great place to experience local culture.
- Local Culture: Enjoy the unique Uighur customs and traditions.
- Food Tasting: Try local delicacies from food stalls.
- Patience: Expect large crowds, especially on Saturdays.
9. Tianshan Mountains
A scenic mountain range where local tribes live. Show respect for their culture and traditions.
- Respect for Local Culture: Understand and respect the customs of the local tribes.
- Preparation: Bring necessary equipment for trekking.
- Guides: Consider hiring a local guide for the trek.
10. Gaochang Ruins
An ancient city with Uighur history. Dress appropriately and show respect when visiting historical sites.
- Appropriate Dress: Avoid revealing clothing.
- Respect for History: Treat the ruins with respect.
- Guides: Consider hiring a guide to learn about the history.
11. Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar
A large marketplace selling a variety of goods. It's important to haggle but remain friendly.
- Haggling: Prices are often negotiable.
- Remaining Friendly: Maintain a friendly demeanor during negotiations.
- Patience: Be prepared to spend time navigating the market.
12. Aksu Karez Well System
An ancient irrigation system featuring underground canals. Respect the local customs and traditions.
- Respect for Local Culture: Understand and respect the customs of the local communities.
- Guides: Consider hiring a guide to learn about the system.
- Caution: Be careful when walking around the canals.
13. Donghu Lake
A scenic lake with beautiful views. Be respectful of local rules and regulations.
- Respect for Local Rules: Follow any local rules or restrictions.
- Photography Etiquette: Ask permission before taking photos of locals.
- Weather Preparation: Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly.
14. Tarte Heaven Restaurant
A popular restaurant serving traditional Uighur dishes. Be prepared to share food and show appreciation for the hospitality.
- Sharing Food: Expect to share dishes with others at your table.
- Appreciation: Show appreciation for the meal and hospitality.
- Respectful Dining: Be mindful of table manners.
15. Kashgar Sunday Market
A famous market on the ancient Silk Road. Bargaining is expected but be aware of cultural sensitivities.
- Bargaining: Prices are often negotiable.
- Cultural Sensitivity: Avoid being too aggressive during price negotiations.
- Patience: Be prepared to spend time navigating the market.