Audio Guide of Kashgar Sunday Market

The market is open exclusively on Sundays from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (local time). It is located on Yembagh Road, Kashgar Prefecture. You can get there by taxi (about 20 CNY from downtown) or by bus lines 2 and 8. Check updated schedules on the official Xinjiang website.

Entry to the market is completely free! You will only pay if you buy local products, handicrafts, or food. Bring cash in Chinese yuan (CNY), since few stalls accept cards. Prices are negotiable.

At least 3 to 4 hours are recommended to enjoy the atmosphere. The market covers more than 100 hectares, with sections dedicated to livestock, textiles, food, and handicrafts. Wear comfortable shoes: you will walk a lot among more than 5,000 stalls!

It is the oldest open-air market in Asia, with more than 2,000 years of history. It was a key stop on the Silk Road for trade between China and Central Asia. Today it remains a center of Uyghur culture and was recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage. More historical information is available at UNESCO.

Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) have pleasant temperatures of 18 to 25°C. Summer is extremely hot (over 40°C) and winter is extremely cold (-10°C). Go early, before 11:00 a.m., to avoid crowds.

Access has limitations: the streets are made of compacted dirt with loose stones, and the livestock areas can be difficult for wheelchairs. The handicrafts area in the northern section is easier to navigate. Avoid peak hours (1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.) when there is heavy congestion.

A 15-minute walk away is Id Kah Mosque, the largest in China, as well as the Uyghur old town with traditional architecture. You can also visit the Mausoleum of Apak Khoja (see location) and Karakul Lake, about 2 hours away by car.

1) Bring small cash bills (10/20 CNY) 2) Use sunscreen and wear a hat 3) Bargain with a smile (start by offering 50% of the initial price) 4) Try freshly baked naan bread and spiced tea 5) Respect local customs: ask permission before photographing people.