1. Night Market Hours & How to Explore
Night markets in Xinjiang come alive after dark. In summer, sunset in Urumqi often occurs after 21:30, with vendors setting up and the busiest hours running from 22 until 3:00 AM the next day. Kashgar's night markets start a bit earlier, drawing crowds around 20. When visiting, follow this routine: walk the area first to check variety and prices, then pick two or three stalls to sit at, and finish with a dessert or drink. During peak times, keep an eye on your belongings and face backpack zippers inward.
Night markets vary by city. In Urumqi, they are typically centralized, well-organized zones with clear pathways. In Kashgar, night markets blend into streets and bazaars, offering a more relaxed, stroll-and-eat experience. First-time visitors can follow the crowd and stop where locals are queuing. Most operate from evening until late at night; some stalls extend hours on weekends and holidays. Weekdays are less crowded, making them ideal for a leisurely meal.
II. Snack List at Urumqi Night Market
Urumqi's night markets are known for offering small, diverse portions—a skewer of grilled meat, a serving of liangpi (cold skin noodles), and a bowl of yogurt can make a complete meal. Lamb skewers are sold individually, typically priced between 3 and 8 yuan per skewer; roasted baozi usually cost 5 to 10 yuan each; liangpi and yellow noodles are around 10 to 20 yuan per serving. For a hearty main course, try mixed noodles or pilaf, which generally range from 15 to 35 yuan.
- For the best taste, we recommend enjoying our skewers fresh and hot.
- Liangpi and yellow noodles are served with a sour and spicy flavor. Please let us know in advance if you prefer less spice.
- Yogurt and kvass help cut through the grease; those with sensitive stomachs should limit chilled versions.
If you're not very hungry, try pairing skewers, liangpi (cold noodles), and yogurt together, and save carbs for daytime. Nighttime temperatures in Urumqi drop quickly; even in summer, they can fall to around 15°C. If dining at an outdoor stall, bring a jacket. Kuobazi (baked buns) and baked eggs are small—great as a side with a main dish or as a snack on their own. They taste best hot; let them cool and the texture suffers, so order fresh and eat immediately.
3. How to Eat and Pace Yourself at Kashgar Night Market
Kashgar's night markets focus more on staple dishes and stews. Common choices include pilaf, pot-cooked mutton, thin-skinned dumplings, and roasted eggs. A roasted egg typically costs around 5 yuan, a serving of pot-cooked mutton ranges from 15 to 30 yuan, and a portion of pilaf usually falls between 20 and 40 yuan. Groups often order multiple dishes to share; vendors are generally happy to divide portions for you.
- Plov portions are generous; one serving plus sides is ideal for two.
- Gangzi Rou is a lightly seasoned stewed mutton dish served with its broth.
- Dessert section: Try handmade ice cream and layered cake, sold by the slice.
Kashgar night markets also offer handmade yogurt, shaved ice, and pomegranate juice, with each serving typically priced between 5 and 15 yuan. The pomegranate juice tends to be sour; if you prefer less acidity, ask the vendor to reduce the water added. These cold drinks and desserts are often prepared fresh on the street, served in spoon-sized portions—ask for details before ordering. Overall, Kashgar's night markets work best when shared among a group: order small portions of various items to sample more varieties.
4. Pricing and Ordering Tips
Average spending at the night market ranges from 40 to 100 per person, with higher costs for barbecue and stewed meat. Prices are estimates and vary by season; final rates apply as confirmed at the time of booking. Please verify pricing units when ordering: skewers are priced per piece, while stewed meat is charged per serving or kilogram to avoid billing discrepancies. This Halal night market does not serve alcohol; guests are advised to bring their own warm water.
Note that during peak hours, vendor prices may change temporarily; double-check before ordering. If you're concerned about hygiene, choose stalls with fast turnover and fresh ingredients. When dining in a group, have one person order while another secures seating to save time.
Common Night Market FAQs: What time to visit and which stalls are worth trying
When is it less crowded? Generally, it's more relaxed before 21:30, and peaks after 23. Which stalls are worth trying? Look for stalls with long local queues; their flavors tend to be consistent. Can I pay by card or mobile payment? Most stalls accept mobile payments, but carrying some cash is still recommended.
5. Related Routes & Local Cuisine
To include night markets in your itinerary, you can follow a city-by-city route: start with the Urumqi area.Northern Xinjiang RouteView towards KashgarSouthern Xinjiang RouteYining Night Market connectsIli Route。
- How to prepare and season lambRoasted Lamb。
- See instructions for thin-skinned buns.Thin-Skinned Steamed Buns。
- View more diet contentFood Special Page。
Night markets are mostly located in urban areas. Plan daytime visits to attractions and markets, then return to the city center in the evening. Kashgar's night market is within walking distance of the Old City; Urumqi's night markets integrate easily with your city itinerary. Before departing, confirm the schedule for the last public transport or locate nearby taxi stands to avoid traveling too far.
Traveler Tips
Night markets are best visited on your arrival day or the night before departure, when you have more time and it's easier to join a table. To skip the hassle of planning routes and choosing stalls, join Xinjiang International Travel's 2-6 person pure-play small group tour. Call us at 18999127242.
