Written by Veronica |
Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar, located in Urumqi, is a bustling market covering an area of 100,000 square meters. It’s one of the must-visit places for Xinjiang tours, giving visitors a glimpse of the diversified cultural scenery of the region. Such a Xinjiang grand bazaar not only gives travelers an individual cultural atmosphere; it’s also home to varieties of commodities ranging from local food to fascinating cultural performances.
Inside the bazaar, there is an abundance of traditional crafts ranging from carpets and embroidery to ceramics and jewelry. Uyghur lamb kebabs, hand-pulled noodles, and Xinjiang-style dumplings are all tourist temptations to try the food of Xinjiang. The bazaar also includes Uyghur dance and music, enabling tourists to experience local customs and traditions.
“Bazaar” is “market” in Uyghur. During your stay in Urumqi, Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar is a must-see. Situated in Tianshan District, with nearly 100,000 square meters and 3,000 shops, it’s China’s largest bazaar and a hub of Uyghur cultural performances. The Islamic-style architecture of the grand bazaar is a representation of the west’s unique charm.
Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar Facts
- Location: 160, Shengli Road, Tianshan District, Urumqi, Xinjiang, China
- Opening hours:every day from 9:00 am to 9:00 pm.
- Area:100,000 square meters
- Time Needed:half a day
- Spotlight:traditional handicrafts, clothes, spices, and local cuisine. Cultural performances are also relished by tourists
- Recommended for:People who seek to explore the local culture and traditions of Xinjiang
What to See and Do in Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar
At the Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar, you will be surrounded by a world of entertainment and a distinctive cultural environment.
Handicraft Shopping the Old Way
The Xinjiang grand bazaar is a haven of traditional crafts like carpets, embroidery, ceramics, and sparkling jewelry. Stroll through the stores and choose unique souvenirs to take back home.
Sampling Local Cuisine
The Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar dishes up authentic local flavors, think Urumqi lamb skewers, hand-pulled noodles, and Xinjiang-style dumplings. Savor the taste of Xinjiang and experience the local food culture.
Cultural Performances to Enjoy
Visit Urumqi grand bazaar and witness cultural performances like Uyghur music and dances. They provide a broader glimpse into everyday customs and cultural heritage.
Engage in Vibrant Scenes
It is a crowded and bustling site that accommodates vendors as well as foreign and domestic travelers crossing the busy setting. Immerse your senses deeply into this celebratory atmosphere and allow yourself to feel a part of the region’s culture directly.
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Featured Attractions
The Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar has two grand sandy yellow structures with solid buildings, beautiful columns, and domes. The Silk Road Tower is the central focus, and each floor is a Silk Road story—any China silk road travel highlight. Inside, a bustling market sells Xinjiang specialties like dried fruits, clothing, perfumes, Yingjisha knives, and handicrafts, making it worth your visit.
Silk Road Observation Tower
Come into the Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar, and you’ll see a 100-meter-high round tower, the highlight – the Silk Road Observation Tower. Each floor on each level is all about the Silk Road, and you’ll have a stunning view of Urumqi city at the top. Tower opening hours at Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar are 10:00-20:00.
Uyghur Style Pedestrian Street
Stroll along on either side of the square on Uyghur-style pedestrian streets that are lined with delicious Xinjiang dried fruits, ethnic musical instruments, handicrafts, and hand-painted drums. Local Uyghurs perform folk music for real flavor.
Naan Museum
The Naan Museum in the Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar exhibits over 100 varieties of naan from across Xinjiang. Learn about naan culture and taboos of its preparation, even try to prepare it yourself.
Night Market
Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar is a potpourri of Xinjiang local specialties. The pedestrian street awakens at 10 PM with a new night scene. Savor Bachu grilled fish, Tacheng ice cream, naan, roasted whole lamb, rice noodles, cold mixed lung, pilaf, and spicy chicken.
Cultural Feast
Go to the Xinjiang grand bazaar and enjoy a buffet of authentic Xinjiang cuisine while watching Uyghur, Arabic, and Uzbek performances. It is a feast of culture that takes you on a cultural and historical tour on the ancient Silk Road, an absolute must in any Xinjiang travel package.
Best Time to Visit
The Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar is accessible all year round, but the most ideal time to stroll through is from June to September, which is summer. The weather during June to September is nice and warm, perfect for searching every nook and cranny of the Urumqi Grand Bazaar. For travelers on Urumqi tours, April to October is ideal to visit when the weather is warm and the air is filled with the scent of mushy melons and fruits. And as a photography buff, September at Chinese Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar is simply a must-see with breathtaking landscapes waiting to be photographed.
How to go to Xinjiang Grand Bazaar
By Taxi
Urumqi taxis are everywhere, a short and easy ride to Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar.
Travel time from the city center is around 15-20 minutes, subject to traffic, and will cost you about 20-30 RMB.
From Urumqi Diwopu International Airport, it’s about a 40-minute drive, with the first 3 kilometers at 10 RMB and 3.33 yuan for each extra kilometer to Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar in Urumqi.
By Public Bus
Take Bus No. 51 or 912 straight to the Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar Station, taking about 20-30 minutes and costing a fare of 2-3 RMB.
Alternatively, other buses you can take are No. 10, 16, 61, 63, 104, 310, 911, 920, 923, and BRT3, all of which lead you to the bazaar.
By Metro
Just take Line 1 and alight at Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar on Urumqi Station, paying about 2-3 RMB and the trip taking between 10-15 minutes.
Travel Tips to Xinjiang Grand Bazaar
- Navigating the Xinjiang Grand Bazaar:Visiting the Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar means preparing for crowds. Keep your belongings close to avoid theft in the bustling area. Once there, it’s helpful to glance at the Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar price list to gauge costs.
- Shopping Clever at the Bazaar and Beyond:While prices at the Xinjiang grand bazaar are slightly higher, they’re worth considering. For cheap buys like dried fruits and oils, visit Donghuan Market. Looking at the price list at the bazaar beforehand makes smart comparisons easier.
- Respecting Diversity:Xinjiang hosts diverse cultures, each with unique customs. Respect these traditions during your trip to ensure a respectful stay. Understanding local norms enhances your travel to Urumqi, making visits to the Xinjiang grand bazaar and beyond more enjoyable.
Attractions Near Xinjiang Grand Bazaar
Located near the Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar, this museum is not all about relics, it’s an insight into the glorious cultural and historical heritage of the region. It’s a must-see for anyone visiting Urumqi and looking to experience the local history and customs.
- Hongshan Park:
Located bang in the middle of Urumqi, Hongshan Park is not only a park, but a scenic escape with stunning vistas of the city. If you’re in the mood for an easy walk or a serene picnic, this is the place for you.
- Shuimogou Park:
It’s not just about the scenery, it’s a park natural wonderland surrounded by mountains and covered with tall elm and willow trees. And for some relaxing time, there’s the hot springs where Xiangfei used to bathe.
Recommended Xinjiang Tours Itineraries
- 10 Days China Silk Road Tour from Lanzhou to Urumqi
- 13 Days Silk Road Tour from Xining to Urumqi
- One Day Urumqi City Exploration Tour
