Things To Do
in Ürümqi
Ürümqi is the capital city of Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region in China and is known for its diverse culture and stunning landscapes. Situated in a valley surrounded by the Tianshan Mountains, it serves as a significant hub for trade along the ancient Silk Road. The city is renowned for its rich history, showcasing a blend of Uyghur, Han, and other ethnic cultures.
With its vibrant markets and unique cuisine, Ürümqi offers a window into the heart of Central Asia.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Xinjiang Regional Museum to learn about the diverse history of the region and view ancient artifacts.
Head to the Erdaoqiao Market for lunch and a shopping experience, where you can find local handicrafts and textiles.
Enjoy a traditional Uyghur dinner at a local restaurant, followed by a stroll around Hong Shan (Red Mountain) for panoramic views of the city.
Take a morning trip to Tianchi (Heavenly Lake) located in the Tianshan Mountains, where you can enjoy breathtaking views and serene surroundings.
Return to Ürümqi and visit the People's Park for a leisurely walk amidst gardens and lakes, perfect for relaxation.
Experience Ürümqi's nightlife by visiting local tea houses or enjoying a performance of traditional Uyghur music and dance.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at a local restaurant | $5 |
| ☕Coffee at a café | $2 |
| 🚕Taxi fare (within city) | $3 |
| 🛍️Souvenir shopping | $10 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $30 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage with diverse influences.
- Delicious and unique local cuisine.
- Stunning natural landscapes perfect for outdoor activities.
- Language barrier may exist for non-Chinese speakers.
- Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
- Extreme weather conditions can affect travel plans.
- "你好" - Hello
- "谢谢" - Thank you
- "请问厕所在哪里？" - Excuse me, where is the restroom?
- "我能要这个吗？" - Can I have this?
- "再见" - Goodbye
Places to Visit in Ürümqi
Visit one of these nice places.
A picturesque alpine lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains, ideal for stunning landscape photography.
Offers panoramic views of Ürümqi and the surrounding area, especially beautiful at sunset.
A vibrant market filled with colorful stalls and local artisans, perfect for capturing the essence of Uyghur culture.
Food in Ürümqi
Ürümqi Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Grilled skewers of marinated lamb, seasoned with spices, commonly served with flatbread.
Must-Try!
Traditional Uyghur flatbread, baked in a tandoor, often enjoyed with meals.
A flavorful rice dish cooked with lamb, carrots, and spices, often garnished with raisins.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where you can sample street food like kebabs, fruits, and sweets.
Famous for its street vendors offering a variety of local dishes and snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be mindful of local customs, especially during religious practices, and dress modestly.
A polite handshake is common; when greeting women, wait for them to extend their hand first.
It is polite to wait for the host to start eating before you begin your meal.
Safety
Tipping in Ürümqi
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Ürümqi, but rounding up the bill for excellent service is appreciated.
Cash is widely accepted, but mobile payments via apps like WeChat Pay and Alipay are increasingly popular.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures make this a great time to explore outdoor attractions; blooming flowers enhance the scenery.
Warm weather is perfect for hiking, but be prepared for occasional rain. This is peak tourist season.
Cooler temperatures and stunning fall foliage make it ideal for sightseeing and photography.
Cold temperatures with snowfall create a winter wonderland; popular for skiing in nearby areas.
Ürümqi at Night
Hiking in Ürümqi
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A challenging hike leading to breathtaking views of Bogda Peak and the surrounding valleys.
A scenic hiking route through stunning landscapes featuring unique rock formations and vibrant colors.
Airports
How to reach Ürümqi by plane.
Located about 30 km from the city center, this airport connects Ürümqi with major cities in China and some international destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in the region, known for their rich cultural traditions and unique cuisine.
The majority ethnic group in China, contributing to the population and economy of Ürümqi.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular sport in urban areas, with many local teams and street courts.
Widely played among youth and adults, with local leagues and community events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ürümqi.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While meat is central to local cuisine, some restaurants offer vegetarian dishes like stir-fried vegetables and dumplings.
Most food in Ürümqi is halal, but it's advisable to confirm with the restaurant.