
Best Cities for Food Lovers in Shache, China
1. Kashgar Old Town Bazaar
A bustling marketplace dating back over 2000 years, offering a variety of local Uyghur and Central Asian foods.
- Authentic Experience: Try traditional dishes like roasted lamb, dried fruit, and homemade noodles.
- Cultural Immersion: Discover local customs and traditions while shopping for spices, textiles, and more.
- Historical Significance: Explore a UNESCO World Heritage Site with centuries-old architecture.
2. Id Kah Mosque
The largest mosque in China and a spiritual heart of the Uyghur people, also offering a unique food experience.
- Religious Significance: Witness daily prayers and learn about Islamic culture.
- Food Court: Taste traditional Uyghur dishes like polo (rice pilaf) and samsa (meat pastries)
- Architectural Marvel: Admire the intricate wooden carvings and blue-glazed tiles.
3. Tianshan Grand Canyon
A picturesque natural wonder offering local Uyghur cuisine in scenic restaurants.
- Natural Beauty: Hike through red canyons, blue lakes, and green valleys.
- Scenic Dining: Dine with panoramic views of the Tianshan Mountains.
- Local Flavors: Sample traditional dishes like laghman noodles and kabobs made from local ingredients.
4. Shache Grain Market
A lively market selling a variety of grains, nuts, and seeds used in Uyghur cuisine.
- Local Ingredients: Buy traditional ingredients to cook your own Uyghur dishes.
- Food Education: Learn about the importance of grains and nuts in Uyghur culture and cuisine.
- Culinary Resources: Find unique local spices, herbs, and cooking utensils.
5. Songmuquan Uyghur Restaurant
A popular restaurant serving traditional Uyghur dishes in a cozy atmosphere.
- Traditional Setting: Dine in a Uyghur-style yurt or courtyard.
- Authentic Taste: Sample traditional dishes like nang burek (pastry pockets) and shish kebabs.
- Warm Hospitality: Experience the genuine warmth and kindness of Uyghur hosts.
6. Shache Night Market
A vibrant market selling street food, snacks, and souvenirs after dark.
- Late-Night Bites: Try local snacks like roujiamo (spicy lamb sandwich) and qurutob (noodle soup).
- Street Food Culture: Experience the unique atmosphere of a bustling night market.
- Souvenir Shopping: Find unique handmade crafts and souvenirs to bring home.
7. Kashgar Tea House
A traditional tea house offering a variety of teas and snacks.
- Tea Variety: Sample a wide range of local and regional teas.
- Relaxing Atmosphere: Enjoy a peaceful break from sightseeing in a tranquil setting.
- Finger Foods: Pair your tea with traditional snacks like dried fruit and nuts.
8. Kashgar Livestock Market
A bustling market selling livestock, including camels, horses, and sheep.
- Cultural Experience: Observe local customs and bargaining techniques.
- Fresh Ingredients: See the source of ingredients used in Uyghur cuisine.
- Photo Opportunities: Capture stunning images of colorful animals and vibrant crowds.
9. Hami Watermelon Fields
Visit a sprawling watermelon farm to see the famous Hami melons and enjoy fresh slices.
- Agricultural Tourism: Learn about the cultivation of these delicious fruits.
- Freshness Guaranteed: Taste juicy, fresh watermelon straight from the field.
- Scenic Views: Enjoy beautiful views of the surrounding farmland and mountains.
10. Kashgar International Bazaar
A modern market offering a mix of local Uyghur, Han Chinese, and other international foods.
- International Cuisine: Sample foods from around the world in one location.
- Local Products: Find unique local products to take home as souvenirs or gifts.
- Shopping Variety: Pick up everything from spices and textiles to electronics and appliances.
11. Kashgar Uyghur Opera Show
A captivating performance showcasing the rich Uyghur cultural heritage and musical traditions.
- Cultural Immersion: Experience a traditional Uyghur opera performance.
- Artistic Expression: Appreciate the intricate costumes, music, and dance.
- Insight into Culture: Learn about Uyghur history, customs, and traditions.
12. Kashgar Silk Road Museum
A museum dedicated to the history of the ancient Silk Road and its impact on Kashgar.
- Historical Insight: Learn about the Silk Road's role in connecting East and West.
- Cultural Exchange: Discover how different cultures influenced Kashgar over time.
- Artifacts Preservation: Explore a collection of artifacts and replicas from the Silk Road era.
13. Kashgar Apak Hoja Mausoleum
A beautiful mosque complex housing the tomb of Apak Hoja, a prominent religious figure.
- Religious Significance: Pay respects at the tomb of a revered Uyghur religious leader.
- Architectural Wonder: Admire the intricate wooden carvings and colorful tilework.
- Peaceful Atmosphere: Find tranquility amidst the bustling city in this serene complex.
14. Kashgar Xinjiang Handicraft Museum
A museum dedicated to preserving and showcasing traditional Uyghur handicrafts.
- Cultural Preservation: Learn about the importance of handicrafts in Uyghur culture.
- Artistic Appreciation: Admire intricate carvings, embroidery, and pottery.
- Skill Demonstrations: Watch artisans demonstrate their craft and answer questions.
15. Kashgar Sunday Market
A large market selling a variety of goods, including clothing, textiles, and food.
- Local Culture: Experience the vibrant atmosphere of a bustling local market.
- Shopping Opportunities: Find unique items to take home as souvenirs or gifts.
- Food Sampling: Taste traditional Uyghur dishes and snacks from street vendors.