Neighborhood Guide in Kashgar, China
1. Id Kah Mosque
A stunning architectural marvel dating back to the 15th century, showcasing the rich Islamic history of Kashgar.
- Historical Significance: One of the oldest and largest mosques in China.
- Architectural Marvel: Features over 200 timber columns, each uniquely carved.
- Spiritual Experience: A place of worship for the local Uyghur community.
2. Apak Hoja Tomb
The final resting place of the revered Islamic figure, Sayyid Afaq Khoja, featuring intricate Uighur artwork.
- Artistic Masterpiece: Showcases exquisite wood carvings and tile work.
- Cultural Significance: A symbol of Uighur heritage and Islamic art.
- Historical Context: Offers insights into the life and influence of Sayyid Afaq Khoja.
3. Old Town of Kashgar
A UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing traditional Uighur architecture and way of life.
- Cultural Preservation: One of the best-preserved ancient cities along the Silk Road.
- Authentic Experience: Allows visitors to explore traditional Uighur markets and homes.
- Historical Insights: Offers a glimpse into the city's rich history and culture.
4. Sunday Bazaar
A bustling market where locals trade goods every Sunday, offering a unique shopping experience.
- Cultural Immersion: Allows visitors to interact with the local Uighur community.
- Unique Shopping Experience: Offers traditional handicrafts, textiles, and local delicacies.
- Authentic Uighur Culture: Showcases the vibrant culture of Kashgar through its merchandise.
5. Karim Khan Astana
A historical Uighur palace built in the 19th century, showcasing traditional Uighur architecture.
- Historical Preservation: One of the best-preserved Uighur palaces in Xinjiang.
- Architectural Marvel: Features intricate wood and tile work.
- Cultural Insights: Offers insights into the lifestyle of the Uighur royalty.
6. Tian-Ya Temple
A Buddhist temple housing a large statue of Maitreya Buddha, located in the heart of Kashgar.
- Religious Significance: An important place of worship for local Buddhists.
- Cultural Diversity: A testament to the religious diversity in Kashgar.
- Architectural Wonder: Features beautiful Tibetan-style architecture.
7. Kashgar Livestock Market
A bustling market where locals trade livestock every Monday, offering a unique cultural experience.
- Cultural Immersion: Allows visitors to witness the traditional Uighur way of life.
- Unique Experience: Offers a glimpse into the local livestock trade.
- Authenticity: Provides an unfiltered look at rural life in Kashgar.
8. Abakh Hoja Tomb
The final resting place of Abakh Hoja, a renowned Islamic scholar and merchant, featuring beautiful Uighur artwork.
- Historical Significance: A significant historical landmark in Kashgar.
- Architectural Masterpiece: Showcases intricate tile work and wood carvings.
- Cultural Insights: Offers insights into the life of Abakh Hoja and Islamic art in Kashgar.
9. Juma Mosque
A stunning mosque featuring Islamic architecture and Uighur artwork, serving as a place of worship for the local community.
- Historical Significance: Built during the Ming Dynasty.
- Architectural Marvel: Featuring beautiful wood and tile work.
- Spiritual Experience: A place of worship for the local Uighur community.
10. Kashi Kaili Ghost City
An eerie ghost town located about an hour's drive from Kashgar, showcasing the effects of urbanization.
- Historical Insights: Offers a glimpse into a bygone era.
- Cultural Preservation: A testament to the effects of urbanization on traditional Uighur life.
- Unique Experience: Provides a surreal and haunting experience.
11. Kashgar International Grand Bazaar
A modern shopping mall offering a wide variety of goods, from electronics to traditional Uighur handicrafts.
- Modern Shopping Experience: Offers a mix of modern and traditional shopping.
- Wide Variety of Goods: Sells everything from electronics to traditional handicrafts.
- Convenience: Provides a one-stop shopping experience for visitors.
12. Kashgar Night Bazaar
A vibrant night market offering local street food and souvenirs, showcasing the lively nightlife of Kashgar.
- Cultural Immersion: Allows visitors to experience the lively nightlife of Kashgar.
- Unique Dining Experience: Offers a variety of local street foods.
- Local Souvenirs: Sells traditional Uighur handicrafts and souvenirs.
13. Kashgar Stadium
A large sports stadium built in the 1980s, hosting various sporting events and concerts.
- Sports and Entertainment: Hosts a variety of sporting events and concerts.
- Modern Architecture: Features modern architectural design.
- Local Atmosphere: Offers a glimpse into the local community's sports and entertainment interests.
14. Shiptang Goats' Graveyard
A unique attraction where goats are buried according to local tradition, located in the mountains near Kashgar.
- Cultural Tradition: A testament to a unique local tradition.
- Natural Beauty: Located in the scenic mountainous region near Kashgar.
- Unique Experience: Provides a unique and memorable experience for visitors.
15. Lob Nor Salt Lake
The largest inland salt lake in China, offering a unique landscape and opportunities for photography.
- Natural Beauty: Features stunning natural landscapes.
- Photography Opportunities: Offers unique opportunities for landscape photography.
- Unique Experience: Provides a memorable experience and a glimpse into the region's natural beauty.