Kashgar Old City

The Kashgar Old Town Scenic Area (喀什古城景区) is located within the Kashgar (喀什市) region of the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region. Covering an area of 3.6 square kilometers, the scenic area stretches from People's Road (人民路) in the south to Seman Road and Yawagh Road (色满路、亚瓦格路) in the north, and from Youmulake Xiehe Road (尤木拉克协海尔路) in the west to the Tumeng River (吐曼河) sightseeing belt in the east.

Kashgar Old Town has withstood over 2,000 years of history, making it a living artifact that represents different historical periods. It is considered a key site for studying ancient cities of the Western Regions and is one of the most valuable, influential, and representative cities for research on the ancient Silk Road culture. As a result, it is often referred to as a "living fossil" for the study of the Silk Road.

The old town is an open-air tourist site as well as a residential area for the Uyghur (维吾尔族) people, where visitors can experience their traditional family life, unique cultural customs, traditional handicrafts, and local cuisine.

On July 13, 2015, the Kashgar Old Town Scenic Area was officially approved as a National 5A Tourist Scenic Area (国家AAAAA级旅游景区) by the National Tourism Resources Planning and Development Quality Evaluation Committee. This made it the 9th 5A-level tourist site in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region (including the Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps) and the 2nd in the Kashgar region.

Basic Information

Location: Located within Kashgar City (喀什市), in the Kashgar Region (喀什地区), Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region (新疆维吾尔自治区).

Climate: Warm temperate continental dry climate.

Opening Hours: Open 24 hours, year-round.

Area: The site covers 3.6 km².

Attractions: Includes Aitigaer Mosque (艾提尕尔清真寺), High Platform Residences (高台民居), Geng Gong Ancestral Hall (耿恭祠), and the Kashgar Ancient City Wall (喀什古城墙).

Ticket Price: Free entry.

Rating: The site is a 5A national-level tourist attraction (AAAAA) as recognized by China’s national tourism authorities in 2015.

Where is Kashgar Old Town

Kashgar Old Town used to be at the crossroads of the northern and southern branches of the Silk Road, near the western edge of the Taklamakan Desert.

Kashgar's old city is located in the center of Kashgar city, with an area of 4.25 square kilometers and about 126,800 residents. The streets and lanes in the old city are criss-crossing and the layout is flexible and changeable.

History of Kashgar Old Town

Kashgar Old Town is often referred to as a living fossil, embodying the history of the ancient Western Regions (古西域). Over its 2,000-year history, the city has witnessed various cultural and architectural transformations, making it an invaluable site for studying the Silk Road culture. It is considered one of the most significant and influential historical cities in terms of its contribution to the study of the Silk Road and ancient Central Asian cultures.

The Old City is also an open-air museum that showcases the daily life of Uyghur (维吾尔族) residents, highlighting traditional crafts, cultural customs, and local cuisine. It remains a vibrant community where Uyghur culture is actively preserved.

Kashgar Old Town is an old-aged site with more than 2000 years. Kashgar Old Town is situated in the center of Kashgar city. With the square kilometers of 4.25, the population of the old town is 126,800, all of whom are Muslims. Kashgar Old Town is the only town with Islamic character and in maze-design.

The earliest records can be found in the ancient Shule recorded by Zhang Qian in the Western Han Dynasty. The ancient city of Shule is located in the southern part of today's Kashgar city, also known as the ancient city of Eskessel. Shule town was set up in the Tang Dynasty, but the ancient city of Hanroy, located more than 20 kilometers east of today's Kashgar city, is evidenced by the Molfo Pagoda. The ancient city of Kashgar, where Chasa and Avag are located, should be the site of the Karahan dynasty's capital, which has a history of more than 800 years. Entering the old streets and lanes, within a range of about 2 square kilometers, 23,000 residents live in compact communities, with 2,300 lanes crisscrossing and weaving closely.

Main Attraction of Kashgar Old Town

Aitigaer Mosque (艾提尕尔清真寺): One of the largest mosques in Kashgar and an architectural marvel of Islamic design.

High Platform Residences (高台民居): Traditional Uyghur homes constructed on high platforms to adapt to the local climate.

Geng Gong Ancestral Hall (耿恭祠): A historical site dedicated to honoring local heroes and notable figures in Kashgar’s history.

Kashgar Ancient City Wall (喀什古城墙): The remnants of the original city wall provide a glimpse into the city’s past defensive structures.

Development and Preservation History

1908: British explorer Catherine Margaret created an early map of Kashgar City.

2008: The initiative to renovate the Kashgar Old City received significant attention from national and regional authorities.

2009: Comprehensive efforts to rehabilitate deteriorating buildings in the old city began.

2010: The Kashgar City Protection and Comprehensive Management Project started, which revitalized the ancient city and preserved its historical structures.

2024: The Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region's 14th People’s Congress passed the Kashgar Old City Protection Regulations, marking the first law specifically created to protect an ancient city in Xinjiang. The regulations took effect on May 1, 2024.

A Huge Maze in Islamic and Uygur Style

Kashgar Old City is a unique maze city in China.  More than 200 narrow alleys crisscrossed.  If you get lost, you can use hexagonal tiles as guides to help you.  Tiles with four corners will lead you to a dead end.  Most of the buildings here are of Islamic and Uyghur styles.  It gives people a feeling of being in the Middle East.  The house in the core area makes it one of the largest adobe buildings in the world.  There is no end of mud walls and colored doors.  The town's residents' gates are open to tourists.  When both doors opened, the owner went home.  When a door panel is opened, the hostess is alone at home.  When the curtain was draped over the door, someone came to visit and the host was absorbed.  Although the local houses are not large, each has a courtyard.

Colorful Uygur Customs and Culture

Kashgar's old city is the home of Uyghurs. You can see and feel Uyghur culture here: their festivals, costumes, songs and dances.  You can also taste many Xinjiang foods here, including shashi buns, baked steamed buns and a crisp cake called pumpkin pie.  Walking in the old city, you will find people's life is very happy.  Handicraft workshops opened, old looms creaked, pottery was sold, and folk artists sang on narrow roads.  In addition, the influence of India, Arabia, ancient Greece and China is reflected in the housing style.  Many houses in the old city include Roman columns, Persian woodcuts, Buddhist lotus heaps, Indian plaster sculptures and Russian windows.、

A Grand International Bazaar

Market is the "market" in Uyghur. Kashgar has always been the hub of the Silk Road and an international commercial center. Tourists can find many fairs in the old city. There is a commercial street called Erya Road, which contains a flower pot market, carpentry, medicine and hat markets. In addition, Kashgar's old city also has a craft workshop street called Kumu Dalva Zha Lu, where Uygur folk musical instrument shops and Kashgar's largest bronze ware shop can be found. Bronze ware is a treasure of Uyghur nationality and is regarded as a work of art. The old city of Kashgar also has handicrafts and supplies from many ethnic minorities such as Kazakhstan and Mongolia, as well as products from Turkey, Arabia, Kazakhstan and India.

Geographical Environment

Location

The Kashgar Old Town (喀什古城) is located in the Kashgar Region (喀什地区) of Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region (新疆维吾尔自治区). It sits on the northeastern foothills of the Pamir Plateau and the western edge of the Tarim Basin, near the Kezilesu River. It is approximately 1,473 kilometers away from Urumqi (乌鲁木齐). The city covers an area of 1,056.8 square kilometers, bordering Shufu County (疏附县) to the east, with the Gumata Mountain (古玛塔格山) and Atush City (阿图什市) to the north, and facing Shule County (疏勒县) across the Kezilesu River to the south.

Terrain and Topography

The terrain of Kashgar City is higher to the north and lower to the south, with an elevation ranging from a maximum of 1,502 meters to a minimum of 1,264 meters, and an average elevation of 1,289.5 meters. It is located on the alluvial plains of the Kashgar River (喀什噶尔河).

Climate

Kashgar enjoys a warm temperate continental dry climate, characterized by distinct seasons. Summers are not excessively hot, and winters are not extremely cold. The summer season is long, and the winter season is short, with long hours of sunshine and little rainfall. The average annual temperature in Kashgar is 11.7°C, with the highest recorded temperature of 13.1°C in 1956, and the lowest of 10.5°C in 1974. The city receives an average annual rainfall of 61.5 mm, with the most precipitation occurring in 1974 (146.2 mm) and the least in 1979 (17.3 mm).

Major Attractions

Aitigaer Mosque (艾提尕尔清真寺)

The Aitigaer Mosque is the largest mosque in Xinjiang and a landmark in Kashgar. It was first built in 1442, during the Ming Dynasty, and is located in the center of Kashgar near Aitigaer Square. The mosque is a stunning example of ethnic architecture with deep religious significance. In 1962, the mosque was designated a key cultural heritage site by the regional government, and in 2001, it was included in the list of National Key Cultural Relics Protection Units.

The mosque covers an area of 16,800 square meters and is made up of a gateway, a main prayer hall, a minaret, a courtyard, and various auxiliary rooms. The prayer hall is impressive, with 140 wooden carved columns arranged in a network pattern. The mosque blends traditional Islamic architecture with elements of Buddhist culture, such as the lotus and swastika motifs. A priceless Handwoven Woolen Carpet from Hotan (和田) hangs in the main hall, showcasing 56 different patterns and a beautiful pomegranate flower design.

High Platform Residences (高台民居)

The High Platform Residences are located at the northeastern edge of the Kashgar Old Town. These traditional homes, built on raised platforms, have been a significant feature of Kashgar’s urban landscape for over 800 years, dating back to the Karakhanid Dynasty. Originally home to over 600 households, the area has evolved into a distinctive historical district, with buildings blending harmoniously with the natural topography.

The area features several traditional handicraft workshops including Adras Silk workshops, pottery workshops, coffee shops, and boutiques. These shops not only preserve the region's cultural heritage but also offer modern and fashionable products, creating a unique fusion of tradition and contemporary life.

Geng Gong Ancestral Hall (耿恭祠)

According to the historical records in the Book of the Later Han (《后汉书》), Geng Gong (耿恭), a military commander during the Eastern Han dynasty, was once trapped by the Xiongnu (匈奴) army at the city of Shule (疏勒), present-day Kashgar. The city's water supply was cut off, and the wells could not reach water. In desperation, Geng Gong prayed to the heavens, drew his sword, and dug three feet into the earth, where a spring miraculously emerged. He instructed his soldiers to pour the water down from the city walls, which made the Xiongnu believe the city had divine protection, prompting them to retreat. The spring became known as Geng Gong’s Well, and a temple built next to the well was named Geng Gong Ancestral Hall in his honor.

The hall was constructed in 1880 during the reign of Emperor Guangxu of the Qing Dynasty. Liu Jintang, a general under Zuo Zongtang, ordered its construction as a tribute to Geng Gong. The Geng Gong Ancestral Hall has since become a popular site for visitors.

Ancient City Wall (古城墙)

The original walls of Kashgar Old Town date back to 1838, when the area between Laining City and the Hui City was built up with residential buildings. The Kashgar City Wall was expanded under the supervision of Zuhierding, a leader from Akimuberk during the Qing Dynasty, extending westward and incorporating Aitigaer Mosque and other key areas. The West Gate was relocated to the Yumurak Xieher Road, while the South Gate became a bustling industrial district known as the Kumudailwaza (meaning "Sand Gate" in Uyghur), and the North Gate moved to the site of the Victory Cinema.

Historical Development

1908: British explorer Catherine Margaret created the first map of Kashgar City.

2008: The renovation project of Kashgar Old Town received strong support from both national and regional authorities.

2009: Comprehensive renovation efforts began to improve the deteriorating housing in the old city.

2010: The Kashgar City Protection and Management Project was launched, revitalizing the ancient city's appearance while preserving its historical character.

2024: The Kashgar Old City Protection Regulations were passed by the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region's 14th People’s Congress, becoming the first law in Xinjiang specifically designed to protect an ancient city. The law took effect on May 1, 2024.

Cultural Events

2022 “China Tourism Day” in Kashgar

On May 19, 2022, the 2022 “China Tourism Day” theme event for Kashgar (喀什) was officially launched at Kashgar Old Town (喀什古城), organized by the Kashgar Administrative Office (喀什地区行政公署), Kashgar Cultural, Radio, Television, and Tourism Bureau (喀什地区文化广播电视和旅游局), and the Kashgar Municipal Government (喀什市人民政府).

2023 “Gathering Xinjiang” Event

On October 19, 2023, the “Gathering Xinjiang” Treasure Hunt Live Streaming Event was successfully launched in Kashgar Old Town (喀什古城), hosted by the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region Commerce Department (新疆维吾尔自治区商务厅), Kashgar Administrative Office (喀什地区行政公署), and Kashgar Municipal Government (喀什市人民政府).

2024 “Belt and Road” Carnival Performance

On the evening of August 16, 2024, the 14th China Xinjiang Kashgar Central Asia-South Asia Commodity Fair (第十四届中国新疆喀什·中亚南亚商品交易会) held the “Belt and Road” Carnival Gala (一带一路嘉年华文艺晚会) at Kashgar Old Town (喀什古城).

Specialty Snacks

Roasted Eggs (烤蛋)

Roasted eggs, including pigeon eggs (鸽子蛋) and chicken eggs (鸡蛋), are cooked whole and then sprinkled with salt and cumin. The most popular goose eggs (鹅蛋) are carefully prepared by puncturing a small hole, removing some egg white, adding 18 spices (18种调料), and then roasting it. The texture is similar to glutinous rice, with a faint burnt flavor and a sweet fragrance.

Rice Sausage & Noodles in Sheep Lungs (米肠子 & 面肺子)

Rice Sausage (米肠子): Rice is stuffed into sheep intestines (羊肠).

Noodles in Sheep Lungs (面肺子): A mixture of washed gluten (面筋) and noodle water is stuffed into sheep lungs (羊肺) and steamed.
These dishes, along with noodles (面筋), coriander (香菜), chili (辣椒), and vinegar (醋), are among the most popular snacks in Xinjiang (新疆).

Pomegranate Juice (石榴汁)

Pomegranate juice, with a sweetness of 14-17%, is very popular at the night markets. It is amber in color and widely enjoyed by visitors.

Yogurt Zongzi (酸奶粽子)

A unique Yogurt Zongzi (酸奶粽子) (a type of rice dumpling) is made by unwrapping the zongzi (粽子), pressing it flat, and then topping it with a layer of yogurt (酸奶) and sweetened red date syrup (糖稀红枣汁).

Spicy Lamb Hooves (胡辣羊蹄子)

This dish involves spicy lamb hooves (胡辣羊蹄子) that are tender and flavorful. When you take a bite, the aroma of the lamb fills the mouth with a combination of fresh, spicy, and savory flavors.

Honors and Recognition

Kashgar Old Town as a National 5A Tourist Attraction

On July 13, 2015, Kashgar Old Town (喀什古城) was officially designated as a National 5A Tourist Attraction by the National Tourism Resource Planning and Development Quality Evaluation Committee (全国旅游资源规划开发质量评定委员会).

Intangible Cultural Heritage Bazaar in Xinjiang

In January 2022, Kashgar Old Town (喀什古城) was recognized by the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region Culture and Tourism Department (新疆维吾尔自治区文化和旅游厅) as an Intangible Cultural Heritage Bazaar (新疆非遗巴扎) in Xinjiang (新疆).

Autonomous Region-Level Intangible Cultural Heritage Market

In June 2023, Kashgar Old Town (喀什古城) received the title of Autonomous Region-level Intangible Cultural Heritage Market (自治区级非遗集市).

Management

The Kashgar Old Town Management Committee (喀什古城景区管委会) is an agency sent by the Kashgar Municipal Government (喀什市人民政府) to manage the Kashgar Old Town (喀什古城) site. It is responsible for overseeing the regional management and operational duties within the area. The committee was officially established on February 7, 2015 (2015年2月7日).

Tourism Information

Admission

Kashgar Old Town (喀什古城) is a free entry tourist destination.

Transportation

The fastest way to reach Kashgar Old Town (喀什古城) is by plane (飞机), with the airport located just 10 kilometers (10千米) from the city center. Alternatively, visitors can take Line 2 of the sightseeing bus (观光巴士2号线), which takes about 20 minutes (20分钟) to reach the site. Taxis within the city start at 8 yuan (8元).

Suggested Routes

East District:

East Gate (古城东门) → Sky Garden (空中花园) → Ironworks Commune (铁业公社) → Old House of Maimte (买买提的老房子) → Kashgar Old Town Tea House (喀什古城药茶馆) → Impression Street (印象一条街) → Geng Gong Ancestral Hall (耿恭祠) → Kashgar Spring Festival Gala Subvenue (喀什春晚分会场) → Han Bazaar (汗巴扎).

West District:

Century-Old Tea House (百年老茶馆) → Bagqi Homestay Alley (巴格其民宿巷) → Oil Painting Street (油画街) → Adras Non-Heritage Museum (艾德莱斯非遗馆) → Rainbow Alley & Bag Lane (彩虹巷和布袋巷) → Grandfather’s Naan (爷爷的爷爷的爸爸的馕) → Antique Street (古董街) → Nur Bashi Food Street (努尔贝希美食街) → Thousand Doors and Ten Thousand Windows Street (千门万窗街).

Best Time to Travel Kashgar Old Town

The best time to pay a visit is in late spring and late summer.

Kashgar region is located in the central Asian abdomen, restricted by geographical environment, and belongs to the continental arid climate zone of warm temperate zone. The territory has four distinct seasons, long illumination, large annual and daily temperature changes, little precipitation and vigorous evaporation. Summer is hot, but the period of hot summer is short. Winter is not cold, but the low temperature period is long, so it is suitable to travel in late spring and late summer.

How to Get There

You can take the bus line 2, 7, 8, 22 or 28 to the old town. You should get off at Id Kah Mosque Stop. Bus no.7 runs through the old town and you can get off at any stop inside the town.

Useful Travel Tips

Nearby Attractions

• The Ruined Stone City
• Xiangbaobao Cemetery
• Shipton’s Arch in Kashgar
• Ruins of Laining City
• The Ancient City of Asksar
• The Mauri-Tim Stupa

Edited by Doreen/张洋