Xinjiang Travel Guide and Regulations

Basic Travel Guide for Xinjiang

1. Introduction to Xinjiang’s Tourism Resources

Northern Xinjiang is the best region for natural scenic views. For the Ili region, the ideal travel season is from May to August, while the Altai region is best visited from June to September. Southern Xinjiang is most suitable for experiencing cultural aspects, with the recommended travel season from March to November. For guests interested in travel photography, we recommend visiting the Ili region between May and August.

2. Travel Tips for Foreigners

Generally, travelers should prepare the necessary passport and visa in advance. However, foreigners are not allowed to visit the Bayingolin Mongol Autonomous Prefecture.

3. Hotel Characteristics in Xinjiang

In cities, there are various hotel options, but in scenic areas, some towns, and most county-level cities, only business hotels or guesthouses are available. The quality of accommodation varies greatly depending on the region. This is because Xinjiang is a western region with limited development, and service standards may be lower than in other areas. Due to environmental and ecological considerations, many hotels in mountainous areas and some county towns, especially in Northern Xinjiang, have not been overly developed, leading to relatively poorer conditions in certain areas. Guests should be mentally prepared for this.

4. Dining Features in Xinjiang

Lamb is the main dish in both cities and rural areas, with pasta being the staple food. Most of the ethnic dishes are halal. Meat is relatively cheap in Xinjiang, but vegetables and seafood are expensive. Xinjiang cuisine is known for being spicy and greasy, with dishes like “Big Plate Chicken” being quite popular. Sichuan cuisine is also common in Xinjiang.

5. Itinerary Arrangement in Xinjiang

All of our itineraries are carefully planned by our team, who have personally experienced them and continuously optimized the trips over the years. Due to the vast size of Xinjiang, the travel routes are long, and the scenic spots are widely spread out, with many areas having sparse populations. It is common to travel several hundred kilometers daily, so guests should be mentally prepared for long distances.

6. Suggested Personal Items to Bring

Clothing: Due to the long duration of travel, windy conditions, and temperature differences, it’s recommended to bring more clothing. Between June and August, temperatures in Xinjiang generally range from 10℃ to 35℃, so lightweight clothing is also advisable. However, even in summer, snow or hail can occur on the Duku Highway, so bringing a jacket is necessary. Due to significant temperature differences between morning and evening, it’s recommended to bring 1-2 jackets in addition to seasonal clothing. Bright-colored clothing is also suggested for good photos.

Other Items: Waterproof mid-low hiking shoes, slippers, warm socks, hats, gloves, scarves, and sunglasses are recommended. Protecting against UV rays is important, so skincare for your face is necessary, and eye drops may help prevent dryness. It’s also wise to bring an umbrella or raincoat.

Skincare: Oily balms, moisturizing creams, and lip balm should be packed to prevent rough and cracked skin due to dry weather. Drinking more water and eating fruit can also help.

Medication: Given the large temperature variations between morning and evening, it’s advisable to carry cold medicine, diarrhea medicine, and other emergency medications. Most cities and counties have pharmacies, clinics, and hospitals where you can purchase additional supplies.

Cash: Some areas such as Nalati, Bayinbuluk, Duku Highway, and southern Xinjiang may have limited services, unstable signals, or no signal at all. Carrying cash and bank cards is recommended.

Snacks: After arriving at hotels, it’s a good idea to buy snacks such as Red Bull, chocolates, bottled water, fruits, and other food items. These will help alleviate discomfort caused by the dry climate or provide energy when no restaurants or stores are available.

Xinjiang Travel Regulations

1. Respecting Local Customs

Xinjiang is home to numerous ethnic minorities, each with distinct customs and strong religious practices. It’s essential to respect the customs of Muslim communities, particularly their food taboos. When dining with them, avoid eating pork or dog meat, and refrain from mentioning these foods. However, it’s best not to alter your dietary habits. If you don’t have specific dietary restrictions, focus on a balanced diet of meat and vegetables, drink plenty of water, and eat fruits.

2. Time Zone Awareness

Although Xinjiang follows Beijing Time, the region is geographically two time zones away from Beijing. As a result, most tourism activities are typically scheduled between 9 AM and 8 PM.

3. Customs on Handicrafts and Knives

Xinjiang is rich in local products, including ethnic handicrafts. However, it’s important to note that civil aviation and railways prohibit the transport of Uyghur-style small knives, which are considered traditional crafts.

4. Eating Fruit

Xinjiang is known as the “Land of Fruits,” and eating local fruits is a great experience. However, avoid drinking hot tea right after consuming fruit to prevent diarrhea.

5. Religious Ceremonies

Many ethnic minorities in Xinjiang have their own religious rituals. Please avoid stopping to watch or interfere excessively with these ceremonies. Do not mistreat livestock or hunting dogs to avoid misunderstandings. If you wish to take photos of ethnic minorities, always ask for their permission first.

6. Avoiding Compliments on Children

In some parts of Xinjiang, it’s considered taboo to compliment a child directly, particularly with words like “fat,” “beautiful,” or “good appetite.” It’s also frowned upon to hug someone elses child, especially if you’re a guest from out of town.

7. Variable Terrain and Weather

Xinjiang’s terrain is complex, with significant differences between mountain climates and plains. Locations such as Tianchi and Kanas are at high altitudes, where the weather can change quickly. It’s advisable to bring a long-sleeved jacket and an umbrella to protect yourself from sudden weather shifts.

8. Traveling by Air or Train

If you need to catch a flight, please arrive at the airport 2-3 hours in advance. For train journeys, it’s recommended to arrive 1-2 hours early.

9. Muslim Food Restrictions

Muslims in Xinjiang prohibit the consumption of pork, dog, donkey, mule meat, and meat from wild animals. They also avoid meat from animals that have died of natural causes. Do not bring these items into Muslim homes or restaurants, or discuss them in such places. Due to intense UV radiation and occasional sandstorms, bring sufficient sunscreen, sunglasses, scarves, sun hats, and lip balm. It’s also advisable to carry cold medicine and stomach relief medication.

10. Purchasing Weighed Products

In most parts of Xinjiang, prices for weighed products are quoted by the kilogram. Be sure to clarify whether the price is per kilogram or per catty (local unit). When shopping at markets for souvenirs, finalize your decision before bargaining, as casual bargaining can upset sellers.