Transportation in Xinjiang: Complete Guide to Getting Around

Xinjiang is massive — it covers 1.66 million square kilometers (640,000 square miles), which is larger than many countries. Getting around requires planning, patience, and an understanding of the available transportation options.

This guide covers every way to get around Xinjiang: high-speed trains, flights, long-distance buses, car rental, and self-drive. By the end, you will know which option is best for your itinerary and budget.

Option 1: High-Speed Trains (高铁)

High-speed trains are the most comfortable and efficient way to travel between major cities in Xinjiang.

Key Routes

• Urumqi to Turpan: 2-3 hours
• Urumqi to Hami: 3-4 hours
• Urumqi to Korla: 4-5 hours

Pros

• Comfortable seats
• Reliable schedules
• No security checks as strict as flights

Cons

• Limited routes (only major cities)
• Can be fully booked during peak season

Option 2: Flights

Flights are the fastest way to cover long distances in Xinjiang.

Key Routes

• Urumqi to Kashgar: 2 hours (vs. 15+ hours by road)
• Urumqi to Hotan: 2 hours
• Urumqi to Altai (for Kanas): 1.5 hours (seasonal)

Pros

• Fastest option for long distances
• Multiple flights per day on popular routes

Cons

• More expensive than trains or buses
• Strict security checks at airports
• Flights can be delayed or cancelled due to weather

Option 3: Long-Distance Buses

Long-distance buses are the budget option for traveling between cities.

Pros

• Cheapest option
• Connects to smaller towns that trains and flights don’t reach

Cons

• Slow (a 500km journey can take 8-10 hours)
• Less comfortable than trains
• No onboard toilet on some buses

Option 4: Car Rental / Self-Drive

Car rental is the most flexible option for exploring Xinjiang, especially for remote areas like Kanas, Bayinbuluke, and the Duku Highway.

Requirements

• Chinese driver’s license: Foreign licenses are not accepted.
• Deposit: Usually 3,000-5,000 RMB
• Insurance: Recommended

Pros

• Maximum flexibility
• Can stop wherever you want
• Good for groups (cost-effective)

Cons

• Requires a Chinese driver’s license
• Long driving days (500km+ per day is common)
• Can be tiring for the driver

Option 5: Private Car with Driver

If you don’t have a Chinese driver’s license, hire a private car with driver. This is a popular option for foreign travelers.

Cost

• About 800-1,500 RMB per day (including driver, fuel, and driver’s meals)

Pros

• No need to drive
• Driver can act as a guide
• Flexible itinerary

Conclusion

Getting around Xinjiang requires planning. My recommendations:

• For major cities: High-speed train (comfortable and efficient)
• For long distances: Flight (saves time)
• For flexibility: Self-drive or private car

Pro tip: Book trains and flights in advance (2-4 weeks) during peak season (July-August). They can sell out.