Xinjiang Travel FAQ: 25 Questions Every First-Time Visitor Asks
Planning a trip to Xinjiang can feel overwhelming. It is China’s largest province, spanning over 1.6 million square kilometers — an area larger than Iran or Mongolia. The distances are vast, the culture is distinct, and the logistics can be complex. To help you plan with confidence, we have compiled answers to the 25 most frequently asked questions from first-time visitors to Xinjiang.
Whether you are wondering about visas, safety, transport, food, altitude, internet access, or what to pack, you will find the answer below.
Visa & Entry
1. Do I need a visa to visit Xinjiang?
Yes. Xinjiang is part of China, so you need a Chinese visa. There are no special additional permits required for most of Xinjiang. The exceptions are border areas like Tashkurgan (requires a Border Pass — see Q3).
2. Can I get a visa on arrival?
No. You must obtain your Chinese visa before traveling. There is no visa on arrival for most nationalities.
3. What is a Border Pass (边境通行证) and do I need one?
A Border Pass is required for travel to Tashkurgan County (near the Pakistan border) and a few other border areas. You can obtain it in Urumqi, Kashgar, or your home country’s Chinese consulate. Bring your passport and one photo. Processing takes 1-2 hours.
Safety & Security
4. Is Xinjiang safe for tourists?
Yes. Xinjiang is one of the safest regions in China for tourists. The security presence is visible (checkpoints, police stations), but it is unobtrusive for travelers. Petty crime is rare. Solo travelers (including women) generally feel very safe.
5. Will I be followed or monitored?
Foreign visitors may have their passports checked at hotels and some attractions. This is routine. You are free to move around and explore. The security measures are primarily targeted at residents, not tourists.
6. Is it safe to drink the tap water?
No. Always drink bottled or boiled water. Hotels provide electric kettles for boiling water. Avoid ice in drinks unless you are sure it is made from boiled water.
Transport & Getting Around
7. What is the best way to get around Xinjiang?
It depends on your style and budget:
- Domestic flights: Fast but expensive. Good for covering long distances (e.g., Urumqi to Kashgar: 2 hours).
- Trains: Comfortable and affordable. The new high-speed rail connects Urumqi to Turpan, Kumul, and other cities.
- Rental car with driver: The best option for flexibility. Costs ¥500-800/day including driver and fuel.
- Public buses: Very affordable but slow and sometimes uncomfortable for long distances.
8. Can I drive myself in Xinjiang?
Foreigners can rent cars but need a Chinese driver’s license (or a notarized translation of your home license, which is not always accepted). Many travelers find it simpler to hire a car with a driver.
9. Are there ride-hailing apps (like Uber)?
Yes. DiDi (滴滴) works in major Xinjiang cities (Urumqi, Kashgar, Turpan). You need a Chinese phone number and WeChat/Alipay to pay.
Internet & Connectivity
10. Will my phone work in Xinjiang?
Yes, if you have a Chinese SIM card. International roaming works in major cities but can be spotty in remote areas. Buy a Chinese SIM card at the airport upon arrival.
11. Is WhatsApp / Google / Facebook blocked?
Yes. China’s “Great Firewall” blocks most foreign websites and apps. You need a VPN to access WhatsApp, Google, Facebook, Instagram, etc. Install your VPN before you arrive in China — you cannot download VPN apps once you are inside.
12. Will I have internet in remote areas?
Coverage is surprisingly good along major highways and in towns. In truly remote areas (deep in the mountains, desert), expect dead spots. Download offline maps before you go.
Food & Diet
13. I don’t eat lamb. Will I starve in Xinjiang?
No! While lamb is prominent, Xinjiang cuisine includes noodles (Laghman), dumplings, eggs, cheese, and vegetables. Most restaurants can prepare vegetable dishes if you ask. Urumqi has excellent vegetarian-friendly options.
14. Is the food very spicy?
Less spicy than Sichuan food. Xinjiang cuisine relies more on cumin, salt, and pepper than chili heat. You can always ask for “bu la” (not spicy) or “wei la” (mildly spicy).
15. Can I drink alcohol?
Yes. Xinjiang black beer (新疆黑啤) is excellent and widely available. Hotels and restaurants serve beer and wine. Note that in more conservative areas (like rural Kashgar), public drinking is less common.
Altitude & Health
16. Will I get altitude sickness in Xinjiang?
It depends where you go. Urumqi, Turpan, and Kashgar are all below 1,500m — no altitude issues. But Tashkurgan (3,200m), Tianchi (1,910m), and the Pamir Highway can cause mild symptoms. If you are going above 3,000m, consider acclimatizing for a day or two.
17. Do I need any vaccinations?
No special vaccinations are required. Routine vaccinations (tetanus, hepatitis A/B) should be up to date. Tap water is not safe to drink (see Q6).
18. Are there hospitals in Xinjiang?
Yes. Urumqi has excellent hospitals with English-speaking staff. Smaller cities have basic medical facilities. For serious issues, evacuate to Urumqi. Bring a comprehensive travel insurance policy.
Money & Costs
19. Can I use credit cards in Xinjiang?
Barely. WeChat Pay and Alipay are universal. International credit cards are accepted at major hotels and airports but nowhere else. Bring cash as backup, or set up WeChat/Alipay with a Chinese friend’s help before you arrive.
20. How much does a day in Xinjiang cost?
Budget: ¥200-350/day (hostels, buses, street food). Mid-range: ¥400-800/day (3-star hotels, tours, restaurant meals). Luxury: ¥1,000+/day (4-5 star hotels, private drivers).
Packing & Preparation
21. What should I pack for Xinjiang?
Key items: layers (temperature varies widely), sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen), sturdy walking shoes, a reusable water bottle, and a power bank. See our complete packing list for a detailed checklist.
22. Do I need a sleeping bag?
Only if you are doing multi-day trekking or staying in very budget guesthouses. Most accommodation provides bedding. If you are particular about cleanliness, bring a silk sleep sheet.
Culture & Etiquette
23. What should I wear in Xinjiang?
Dress modestly, especially in southern Xinjiang (Kashgar, Hotan). Shoulders and knees should be covered when visiting mosques. In northern Xinjiang and Urumqi, dress is more relaxed.
24. Can I take photos of people?
Always ask first. Many ethnic minority communities are happy to be photographed, but some may refuse for religious or cultural reasons. A smile and a gesture with your camera usually gets the message across. Offer to send the photo — it is a nice gesture.
25. Do I need to speak Chinese?
It helps but is not essential in major tourist areas. Download a translation app (Google Translate works with a VPN; otherwise, use Papago or Microsoft Translator). In Urumqi and Kashgar, some hotel and restaurant staff speak basic English.
Conclusion
Xinjiang is a complex, fasinating, and deeply rewarding destination. Yes, the logistics require more planning than a typical China trip. But the rewards — dramatic landscapes, incredible food, warm hospitality, and cultural encounters you will find nowhere else in China — make it all worthwhile.
Got a question we did not answer? Get in touch — we are happy to help.
