Xinjiang

Introduction

Xinjiang, China's largest provincial-level administrative region covering one-sixth of the country's total area, is a breathtakingly vast land. It encompasses nearly every type of terrain on Earth — the Tianshan Mountains stretch from east to west, dividing Xinjiang into two great basins: the Junggar Basin in the north with its lush grasslands and scattered lakes, and the Tarim Basin in the south with its endless golden deserts. Kanas Lake's emerald waters harbor legends of a lake monster, Sayram Lake's azure purity has been called the last tear of the Atlantic, the flower meadows of Nalati Grassland stretch to the horizon, and every bend of the Duku Highway through the Tianshan Mountains reveals a world-class vista. Xinjiang is also the heartland of the Silk Road, where Eastern and Western civilizations have converged for over two thousand years — the ancient bazaars of Kashgar's Old City remain as vibrant as ever, Uyghur song and dance burn with passion, and the call to prayer from Id Kah Mosque echoes across the ages. This is the land of melons and fruits, where the sweetness of Hami melon, the plumpness of grapes, and the richness of jujubes are all gifts of abundant sunshine. The cumin-scented lamb skewers, the spicy and savory Big Plate Chicken, and the golden grains of pilaf let your taste buds blossom along the Silk Road. The grandeur of Xinjiang cannot be conveyed through photographs — only by being there can you feel the boundless, soul-stirring beauty.

Xinjiang is China's most spectacular and geographically expansive travel destination, truly deserving the title of 'travel the whole world in one province.' For a first visit, plan at least 10 days. The Northern Xinjiang loop (Urumqi → Kanas Lake → Sayram Lake → Ili) is the most classic choice. If time allows, Kashgar and the Pamir Plateau in Southern Xinjiang offer an entirely different cultural experience. June to September is the best season for Northern Xinjiang, while September to October is most comfortable for Southern Xinjiang. Xinjiang is enormous, with distances of hundreds of kilometers between attractions — self-driving or hiring a car with driver is the best way to travel. Note that Xinjiang uses Beijing time but is actually about 2 hours behind, so locals tend to start their day 2 hours later.

Traveler Reviews

Travel Highlights

Top Attractions

Local Cuisine

Xinjiang Big Plate Chicken

Xinjiang's most iconic hearty dish — large chunks of chicken and potatoes with green and red peppers stir-fried in an iron plate, drenched in rich sauce, and finished with hand-pulled wide noodles soaked in the savory broth. Spicy, aromatic, and enormously portioned, one plate easily feeds three to four people — a perfect embodiment of Xinjiang's generous spirit.

📍 Urumqi Blood Station Big Plate Chicken, Shawan Big Plate Chicken (birthplace), available throughout Xinjiang

Lamb Skewers

The soul of Xinjiang barbecue lies in the quality of the lamb and the aroma of cumin. Authentic Xinjiang lamb skewers are threaded on iron skewers with large chunks of meat alternating between lean and fat, grilled over charcoal until crispy on the outside and tender inside, then sprinkled with cumin and chili flakes. One bite releases a burst of rich, savory juices — the must-try food at any Xinjiang night market.

📍 Urumqi International Grand Bazaar, night market barbecue stalls in every city

Pilaf

A traditional Uyghur staple made by braising lamb, carrots, onions, raisins, and rice together in a large iron pot. The rice grains are distinct, golden, and glistening with oil; the lamb is tender, the carrots sweet and soft — every bite carries the flavor of the Silk Road. Traditionally eaten by hand, hence the Chinese name 'hand-grab rice.'

📍 Uyghur restaurants and bazaar food courts in every city

Naan

The 'bread' of Xinjiang with over 2,000 years of history. Dough is pressed against the inner wall of a clay tandoor oven and baked over charcoal, producing a crispy exterior and soft interior with a rich wheat aroma. There are over 50 varieties — sesame naan, dimpled naan, rose naan, and meat naan, each with its own character. Freshly baked golden naan straight from the oven is Xinjiang's most humble yet most heartwarming flavor.

📍 Tandoor ovens and bazaars throughout Xinjiang; Kuqa giant naan is the most famous

Where to Stay

Getting Around

Budget Guide

Practical Info

Recommended Routes

FAQs