Communication: Kashgar

Connectivity Basics

Information on mobile services and internet access.

Stay Connected

Local SIM Cards: Obtaining a local SIM card can be difficult. International roaming or eSIMs from Airalo may work better.
Wi-Fi: Available in most hotels, guesthouses, and many restaurants. Speeds vary.
Internet Censorship: China operates a system blocking many international sites (Google, Facebook, WhatsApp). A VPN is a must. Download and set up a reliable VPN Before arriving.

Language Bridge

Addressing language barriers during your visit.

Main Languages: Uyghur is most spoken locally. Mandarin Chinese is official. English is not widely spoken.
Translation Apps: Download offline language packs (e.g., Google Translate for Mandarin). Pleco is an excellent offline Chinese dictionary.
Phrasebook: Carry a small Mandarin phrasebook with essential phrases. A local guide is highly recommended for navigation and cultural understanding.

Important Phrases Mandarin

Mandarin phrases for daily interactions.

Essential Greetings

Hello: Nǐ hǎo (nee-how)
Thank you: Xièxiè (shyeh-shyeh)
Excuse me/Sorry: Duìbuqǐ (dway-boo-chee)

Uyghur Phrases

A few local phrases show respect.

Local Expressions

Salam: Hello
Rahmat: Thank you
Yakhshi: Good

Travel & Financial Services

Travel Convenience

Airport Lounge Access: Priority Pass membership for airport lounge access globally.
Flight Disruption: Compensair assists with compensation for flight delays/cancellations.
Portable Wi-Fi: Devices like Solis Wi-Fi can offer portable internet access.
Language Learning: Prepare for your trip with Rosetta Stone for language skills.

Money Matters

Banking Hours: Major bank branches open Monday-Friday, 9 AM - 5 PM.
ATMs: Widely available, accept international cards (Visa, MasterCard). You get CNY.
Public Holidays: Chinese and Islamic holidays mean crowded transport and busier attractions. Plan well ahead.
Tipping: Not customary or expected in Kashgar or mainland China. It can cause confusion.

Internet Access Alert

Always download and set up a reliable Virtual Private Network (VPN) service Before arriving in China. Many international websites and apps (Google, Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp) are blocked without one.

Daily Life & Customs

This information helps you navigate Kashgar with confidence, covering typical operating hours, cultural norms, and accessibility considerations.

Operating Hours

Shops: Generally open from 9:00 AM or 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM or 10:00 PM. Restaurants: Typically open for lunch (12:00 PM - 2:00 PM) and dinner (6:00 PM - 9:00 PM). Government Offices/Banks: Generally operate from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday to Friday.

Holiday Effects

Chinese Public Holidays: New Year's Day, Chinese New Year (7-day holiday), Labor Day, National Day. During these, transport is crowded, attractions are busier. Islamic Holidays: Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha. Many Uyghur businesses may close. Id Kah Mosque is very busy.

Seasonal Access

Some outdoor attractions, especially in the high Pamir Mountains, may have reduced accessibility or limited services in deep winter due to snow, ice, and extreme cold. Always verify accessibility before planning trips to these areas.

Cultural Conduct

Adhering to local customs respects the community.

Greeting & Dress

Greeting Customs: A nod or slight bow expresses respect. Handshakes are common. Using a few Uyghur phrases like "Salam" or "Rahmat" shows respect.
Appropriate Attire: Modest clothing is advisable for both men and women. Avoid overly revealing attire. Women should carry a Scarf for mosques.
Religious Sites: Modest dress is a must. Shoulders and knees must cover. Shoes must remove before entering prayer halls. Do not disturb worshippers.

Photography & Topics

Considerations for photos and discussions.

Sensitive Areas

Photography: Always ask for permission before photographing individuals. Do not photograph government buildings, police stations, checkpoints, military installations, or security personnel.
Politics: Avoid discussing sensitive political topics, especially those related to Xinjiang, human rights, or the Chinese government. This has great significance for your safety.
Gender & LGBTQ+: Modest behavior is expected. Public displays of affection are rare. LGBTQ+ travelers should exercise discretion.

Accessibility

Infrastructure & Transport

Infrastructure: Old City areas with uneven cobblestones and steps are not well-equipped. Sidewalks can be uneven.
Transportation: Public buses are not generally accessible. Taxis and private cars give more flexibility, but may not be specially adapted.
Hotels: Newer, higher-end hotels are more likely to offer accessible rooms and facilities. Always confirm directly with the hotel.

Support & Resources

Visual/Hearing: Specialized services are limited. Signage is mainly in Chinese and Uyghur. Braille or hearing loops are not common.
Organizations: No specific local organizations give accessibility information for foreigners. Rely on detailed pre-trip research.
Lounge Access: Priority Pass offers airport lounge access.

Accessibility Awareness

Kashgar's infrastructure development has not fully prioritized accessibility for travelers with mobility challenges, especially in older areas. Specialized services for visual or hearing impairments remain limited. Thorough pre-trip research and direct communication with hotels regarding accessibility features are for those with specific needs.

Communication