Environmental Care: Kashgar

Protected Areas

Xinjiang features several protected areas, including parts of the Pamir Mountains and desert ecosystems. Conservation efforts mainly focus on desertification control, ecological restoration, and water management. Your visit should try to support these efforts by minimizing impact.

Waste & Recycling

Waste management infrastructure in Kashgar develops, but recycling is not as widespread as in many Western countries. Minimize waste generation. Carry a Reusable water bottle to cut down on plastic. Use a reusable shopping bag. Dispose of waste properly in designated bins.

Water Conservation

Kashgar is an oasis city, and water is a precious resource in this arid region. Be mindful of your water usage during your stay. Take shorter showers, reuse towels if possible, and report any leaks.

Cultural Sensitivity

Cultural sensitivity has great significance in Kashgar, a region with a deep and distinct Uyghur culture and specific socio-political context. Your respectful interactions leave a good impression.

Cultural Preservation

Support for maintaining local heritage.

Local Heritage

Preservation Efforts: The large-scale reconstruction of the Old City has been controversial, involving relocation. As a visitor, you can support cultural preservation.
Artisan Support: Purchase traditional handicrafts directly from local artisans. This helps sustain traditional crafts and directs money to producers.
Controversial Aspects: While presented as modernization, efforts have involved significant alterations to traditional living spaces.
Local Distinctiveness: Appreciate efforts to maintain Uyghur cultural distinctiveness.

Respectful Interactions

Guidelines for positive engagement.

Interaction Guidelines

Dress Modestly: Modest clothing displays respect for local customs and religious beliefs. This is especially important in a predominantly Muslim city.
Photography: Always ask for permission before taking photos of people. Be ready for a polite refusal, and honor it immediately. Be discreet.
Sensitive Areas: Do not photograph government buildings, police stations, checkpoints, military installations, or security personnel. Adhere strictly to "No Photography" signs.
Bargaining: Expected in markets. Engage respectfully and with a good-humored attitude. It forms part of the cultural exchange.

Religious Etiquette

Guidelines for visiting sacred sites.

Mosque Visits

Remove Shoes: A requirement before entering prayer areas within mosques or mausoleums.
No Disturbing: Do not disturb worshippers. Maintain silence or speak in very low voices. Do not walk in front of those praying.
Dress Code: Modest dress is a requirement. Women cover their heads before entering mosques. Carry a Scarf for this.
No Photography of Worshippers: Avoid photographing individuals during prayer without explicit permission.

Privacy & Taboos

Awareness of sensitive topics and privacy.

Important Considerations

Photography Ethics: Given pervasive surveillance, locals may be wary of being photographed. Avoid candid shots without permission, notably close-ups. Focus on landscapes.
Sensitive Topics: Avoid discussing sensitive political topics, especially those related to Xinjiang, human rights, or the Chinese government. This has great significance for your safety.
Religion: Be respectful of Islamic practices and beliefs. Do not touch or point at religious texts or objects.
Cultural Identity: Recognize and honor the distinct Uyghur cultural identity. Avoid generalizations or comparisons that might seem dismissive of their heritage.

Economic Contribution

Supporting Local Economy

Prioritize eating at local Uyghur restaurants rather than international chains. Shop at the Grand Bazaar and other local markets.

Browse Local Stalls

Ethical Tour Operators

Consider tours from operators with ethical practices for responsible travel.

Explore G Adventures

Responsible Travel Advisory

Be aware of the complex socio-political context of Xinjiang. Avoid any activities that might indirectly support or cause exploitative practices. Stick to officially sanctioned travel means (organized tours, licensed guides) and avoid engaging in any black market activities or unauthorized tours. Direct charitable giving to individuals, especially children, is not generally recommended. If you wish to donate, do so through established, reputable local charities or organizations, though identifying such for foreigners may pose challenges.

Ethical Choices & Impacts

Your travel choices have an influence on the local community and environment. Make informed decisions that align with sustainable practices.

Community Engagement

Supporting local livelihoods directly.

Direct Support

Local Businesses: Shop at the Grand Bazaar and other local markets. This directs your money within the local economy.
Local Guides: Hire local guides through reputable, licensed tour companies. This supports livelihoods and preserves local culture.
Handicrafts: When buying items like carpets, pottery, silk, or knives, purchase directly from artisans or small local shops. This gives benefit to producers.
Fair Pricing: Bargaining is expected, but aim for a fair price that values the artisan's work rather than seeking the lowest price.

Avoiding Harmful Practices

Making responsible choices in a complex region.

Responsible Conduct

Complex Context: Be aware of the complex socio-political context of Xinjiang.
Avoid Exploitation: Avoid any activities that might indirectly support or cause exploitative practices.
Sanctioned Travel: Stick to officially sanctioned travel means (organized tours, licensed guides).
Unauthorized Tours: Avoid engaging in any black market activities or unauthorized tours.

Charitable Giving

Thoughts on donations.

Donation Advice

Direct Giving: Direct charitable giving to individuals, especially children begging, is not generally recommended.
Dependency: It can foster dependency and sometimes cause organized begging.
Established Charities: If you wish to donate, do so through established, reputable local charities or organizations.
Transparency: Identifying such organizations for foreigners and confirming their transparency may pose challenges in Xinjiang.

Eco-Friendly Travel

Consider options that lessen your environmental impact.

Green Travel Options

Eco-Friendly Accommodation: Look for operators that demonstrate general responsible practices.
Eco Stays: Check Ecobnb for eco-friendly accommodation booking options.
Carbon Offsets: Consider offsetting your flight emissions through reputable carbon offset programs like Terrapass.
Reusable Products: Explore reusable product companies like Package Free Shop for sustainable travel items.

Takeaways for Responsible Travel

Making conscious choices as a traveler contributes positively to Kashgar and its people.

Minimize Footprint

Reduce waste and conserve water in this arid region. Every effort helps.

Cultural Respect

Engage with locals respectfully, observe customs, and choose your words carefully.

Support Local

Direct your spending to local businesses and artisans. This benefits the community.

Your Economic Footprint

Your travel choices directly influence the local community's economy. This sustains livelihoods and helps preserve local culture.

Sustainable Travel Principles

Further guidelines for a mindful and beneficial visit to Kashgar, embracing environmental, cultural, and economic considerations.

Environmental Practices

Conscious choices lessen environmental impact.

Green Guidelines

Minimize waste generation. Carry a reusable water bottle to cut plastic bottle consumption.
Use a reusable shopping bag for market purchases. Dispose of waste properly in designated bins.
Be mindful of water usage. Take shorter showers, reuse towels, and report any leaks in your accommodation.
Consider offsetting your flight emissions through reputable carbon offset programs.

Cultural Engagement

Building positive interactions.

Respectful Conduct

Dress Modestly: This is especially important in a predominantly Muslim city. It displays respect for local customs.
Photography Permissions: Always ask for permission before photographing individuals. Respect "no" responses immediately.
Sensitive Topics: Avoid discussing sensitive political topics related to Xinjiang. This has great significance for your safety.
Religious Etiquette: Remove shoes before entering prayer areas. Women cover heads. Maintain silence.

Economic Contributions

Directing your spending thoughtfully.

Local Support

Eat at local Uyghur restaurants rather than international chains to support the local food economy.
Shop at the Grand Bazaar and other local markets. This makes certain your money circulates within the local economy.
Hire local guides (through reputable, licensed tour companies). This supports their livelihoods and helps preserve local culture.
When buying handicrafts, purchase directly from artisans or small local shops. This ensures direct benefit to producers.

Ethical Tourism

Choosing responsible tour experiences.

Conscious Travel

Ethical Tour Operators: Consider operators like G Adventures for ethical tour options.
Eco-Friendly Accommodations: Seek accommodations that display responsible practices regarding their local environment.
Reusable Products: Reduce waste by using reusable products from companies such as Package Free Shop.
Support Conservation: Consider supporting conservation organizations like The Rainforest Site.

Cultural Pointers

Reminder of central cultural considerations for your visit.

Ask Before Photos

Always seek permission for photos of individuals. Respect their privacy and preferences.

Dress Modestly

Wear respectful clothing, especially in religious sites, to honor local customs.

Avoid Politics

Steer clear of sensitive political discussions.

Critical Travel Warning

Be aware of the complex socio-political context of Xinjiang. Avoid any activities that might indirectly support or cause exploitative practices. Stick to officially sanctioned travel means (organized tours, licensed guides) and avoid engaging in any black market activities or unauthorized tours. This note holds great significance for your safety and a problem-free journey.

Environmental Responsibility

Kashgar is an oasis city in an arid region. Water is a precious resource. Minimize your water usage and reduce waste generation by bringing a reusable water bottle and shopping bag. Dispose of waste properly in designated bins to support local environmental efforts.

Environmental Care