A Must-Do on Your Xinjiang Trip: Spend a Day in Ürümqi!

When flying to Xinjiang from other parts of China, your first stop is usually Ürümqi. Don’t just treat it as a transit point— as the capital of Xinjiang, this city has its own unique cultural charm! Before heading to other destinations in Xinjiang, take a day to explore Ürümqi. 🚶🏻 My One-Day Itinerary in Ürümqi 👉🏻 ❶ Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar → ❷ Erdaoqiao Bazaar → ❸ Xinjiang Folk Street → ❹ Ürümqi Cultural Center → ❺ Ürümqi Museum → ❻ Hongguang Mountain Giant Buddha → ❼ Window to Central Asia ✔️ Points ①②③, ④⑤, and ⑥⑦ are close to each other and can be explored on foot. ✔️ Travel between ③→④ and ⑤→⑥ requires a taxi. ✔️ Xinjiang Folk Street is currently under renovation (completing by year-end) and can only be viewed from the outside. 📷 Photo Spots 🔹 Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar A central market featuring Islamic architecture, filled with unique handicrafts and delicious food. It’s also a highly photogenic spot—don’t miss the Afandi-themed photo ops! 🔹 Ürümqi Cultural Center A futuristic landmark unlike any other in the city. Known as the "Six Pavilions with One Heart," it includes museums and exhibition halls. The central Cultural Tower looks like a spaceship—stunning! 🔹 Hongguang Mountain Giant Buddha The largest gold-plated copper standing Buddha in Western China, incredibly majestic. On clear days, you can capture it with snow-capped mountains in the background. 🔹 Window to Central Asia On the way to the Giant Buddha, this spot features miniatures of cities from five Central Asian countries, offering exotic photo opportunities. #CityExplorerPlan #MustVisitTheNorthwest #XinjiangTravelGuide #ChinaTravel #UrumqiTourism #UrumqiPhotography