Things To Do
in Ürümqi
Ürümqi sits at the northern edge of Xinjiang's Tarim Basin, framed by the Tianshan mountains. It is a modern city that blends Uyghur, Han, and other cultures in its markets, mosques, and museums. The city serves as a gateway to Silk Road history and striking natural scenery just beyond the urban core.
Visitors can savor lamb kebabs, polo, and tea at grand bazaars while exploring museums and hilltop viewpoints.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the Xinjiang Regional Museum, where you'll gain insight into the diverse cultures of the Uyghur, Han, and other ethnic groups. After exploring the museum, take a stroll through the nearby People's Park, soaking in the morning tranquility and watching locals practice tai chi. Enjoy a light breakfast at a local café, sampling traditional Uyghur bread and tea.
In the afternoon, head to the bustling Grand Bazaar, where you can shop for unique handicrafts, spices, and souvenirs. Engage with local vendors and sample delicious street food, including lamb skewers and freshly made naan. As you wander through the vibrant stalls, take the opportunity to learn about the rich heritage of the region.
As the sun sets, enjoy a traditional Uyghur dinner at a local restaurant, indulging in dishes like polo (fried rice) and kebabs. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the Erdaoqiao Night Market, where you can experience the lively atmosphere filled with lights and sounds. Finish your evening with a warm cup of traditional milk tea at a cozy tea house.
Begin your morning with a visit to the Uyghur Cultural Museum to deepen your understanding of their rich history and artistic traditions. Participate in a hands-on workshop where you can learn traditional Uyghur music or dance, gaining insight into the local culture. Enjoy a light breakfast featuring Uyghur pastries and fresh fruit from a nearby market.
In the afternoon, visit a local textile workshop to see artisans at work creating beautiful carpets and silk fabrics. Engage with the artisans and learn about the intricate techniques used in their craft. Afterward, explore the nearby local artisan shops to find unique souvenirs to take back home.
Conclude your day with a cultural performance showcasing Uyghur dances and music at a local theater. Enjoy a buffet dinner featuring a variety of dishes highlighting the diverse flavors of Xinjiang cuisine. After the show, take a stroll through the illuminated streets of Ürümqi, capturing the vibrant nightlife.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🥤Cup of coffee or tea | $2-4 |
| 🚇Local transportation (one-way) | $0.3-1 |
| 🏨1 night in a mid-range hotel | $40-90 |
| 🍜Local dish (polo or similar) | $2-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich fusion of Uyghur culture and modern city life
- Accessible base for exploring Tianshan scenery and Sayram Lake
- Vibrant bazaars with affordable, flavorful cuisine
- Friendly locals and a generally welcoming atmosphere
- Hot summers and cold winters require season-appropriate packing
- Language barriers can exist outside tourist spots
- Some areas require careful navigation of cultural sensitivities and local regulations
- Transit options can be less frequent than in larger metropolitan centers
- "你好" - Hello
- "谢谢" - Thank you
- "请问厕所在哪儿？" - Where is the bathroom?
- "你会说英语吗？" - Do you speak English?
- "多少钱？" - How much is this?
Places to Visit in Ürümqi
Visit one of these nice places.
Modern glass-and-stone facade with clean lines—great for architectural photography and exterior lighting.
Vibrant stalls, colorful textiles, spices, and food scenes offer dynamic street photography opportunities.
Elevated vantage point over the city, especially golden hour light on the skyline and surrounding hills.
Turquoise waters and alpine backdrop for expansive landscape shots, often at dawn or dusk.
Winding roads and ridges with snowy peaks in the distance—ideal for wide-angle scenery and nature portraits.
Food in Ürümqi
Ürümqi Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fragrant rice cooked with lamb, carrots, onions, and spices; a staple at most gatherings and restaurants.
Must-Try!
Hand-pulled noodles with flavorful sauce, vegetables, and sometimes meat; widely available in markets and eateries.
Baked pastry filled with seasoned meat and onions; a popular street snack.
Chili-spiced chicken with potatoes and peppers in a thick sauce; great for sharing in a table-setting.
Charred lamb or beef skewers seasoned with cumin and chili; a quintessential Xinjiang street-food experience.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant market lanes offering nuts, dried fruits, breads, spices, and ready-to-eat skewers; ideal for sampling staple snacks.
Concentrated stalls around central avenues offering hot kebabs, naan, and fresh dairy products.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. In more conservative areas, lightweight long sleeves and pants are appropriate.
Ask permission before photographing individuals; be mindful of cultural and religious sensitivities around certain subjects.
A polite greeting goes a long way; use simple Mandarin phrases and be patient with language barriers.
Safety
Tipping in Ürümqi
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not widely expected in most Xinjiang services. In upscale hotels or Western-style venues, a small tip may be appreciated, but it is not required.
Cash (Renminbi) is widely accepted, and mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are common in shops and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and dry in the basin; expect long days and clear skies. Stay hydrated, carry sun protection, and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
Mild temperatures with colorful landscapes as foliage changes. A great time for outdoor hikes and photography without extreme heat.
Cold with potential snow and windy conditions. Dress in layers, bring a warm coat, and choose indoor activities or short outdoor excursions.
Cool to mild with blooming flora. Pleasant for city exploring and nearby hikes, though weather can be unpredictable—pack a light rain layer.
Ürümqi at Night
Hiking in Ürümqi
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible trails with alpine scenery and viewpoints near Ürümqi, suitable for day hikes.
Rugged ridges and lake views within a short drive, offering seasonal wildlife and photography opportunities.
Airports
How to reach Ürümqi by plane.
Main international and domestic airport serving Ürümqi, with frequent flights to major Chinese cities and some international connections; taxis or metro lines provide access to the city.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A major ethnic group in the region with distinct language, customs, and cuisine.
The largest ethnic group in the area, contributing to urban development and commerce.
Represent a diverse blend of cultures and traditions within the city.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular pastime and spectator sport in city parks and stadiums.
Common in schools, parks, and community centers; casual pickup games are widespread.
Cultural sport forms occasionally showcased at festivals and events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ürümqi.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can enjoy laghman noodles, nan bread, salads, and dairy; ask for meat-free versions and clarified broths, especially in dishes that may use stock.