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Urumqi

2025 Urumqi Travel Guide: Weather, Transportation, Popular Attractions, and Everything You Need (Updated 2025 4)

About Urumqi

Recommended trip: 2–4 day(s)

Recommended trip: 2–4 day(s)

Current Weather Conditions

8°C

Urumqi Local Experiences Map

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Urumqi Local Travel Guide 2025

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Urumqi Brief Guide

According to many Chinese people, Urumqi—near the northwestern edge of China—is a distant and mysterious place. Urumqi is the capital city of the Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region and its name means "beautiful pasture". Bold ethnic style is this city's outstanding feature. Urumqi is located at the juncture between Xinjiang's north and south. It is a must-see location for tourists visiting Xinjiang. The lively Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar is a vast marketplace where shopkeepers sell every imaginable type of Xinjiang specialty good. There are also many beautiful scenic parks on the outskirts of town, or, traveling a little farther, you can enjoy the spectacular glaciers. Xinjiang has over 18,000 glaciers. Most Xinjiang restaurants have many local delicacies to try.

Urumqi Must-try Local Experiences

1. Explore the Silk Road's Legacy at the Xinjiang Museum Delve into the history and culture of the Silk Road at the Xinjiang Museum, featuring ancient artifacts, mummies, textiles, and Buddhist scriptures. 2. Stroll Through the Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar, where you can shop for local crafts, spices, and textiles while enjoying traditional Uyghur music and dance performances. 3. Hike the Hongshan Park Hongshan Park offers panoramic views of Urumqi and is a great spot for a leisurely hike. The park is also home to the iconic Hongshan Tower. 4. Immerse Yourself in Uyghur Culture Experience vibrant Uyghur culture in Urumqi through traditional dance performances, paper-cutting art, and visits to local mosques. 5. Experience Uyghur Dance and Music Attend a traditional Uyghur dance and music performance featuring vibrant costumes and energetic dances. 6. Learn Traditional Uyghur Handicrafts Participate in workshops to learn traditional Uyghur crafts like carpets, pottery, and embroidery. 7. Celebrate the Uyghur Meshrep Festival Witness traditional Uyghur gatherings with music, dance, and storytelling during the Meshrep Festival. 8. Experience the Urumqi Silk Road Ice & Snow Festival Held in winter, this festival features ice sculptures, snow activities, and cultural performances. 9. Savor the Flavors of Xinjiang Cuisine Indulge in Xinjiang cuisine with dishes like laghman, samsa, polu, and traditional naan bread. 10. Indulge in Xinjiang Fruits and Nuts Taste Xinjiang's famous sweet fruits and nuts, including melons, grapes, and almonds, at local markets. 11. Explore the Urumqi Night Market Enjoy a lively atmosphere with street food, local crafts, and entertainment at the Urumqi Night Market. 12. Find Unique Treasures at Erdaoqiao Dabazha Discover unique souvenirs at Erdaoqiao Bazaar, known for its antiques, handicrafts, and local specialties. 13. Relax in a Traditional Uyghur Tea House Visit a traditional Uyghur tea house to enjoy fragrant tea and local hospitality. 14. Visit the Nanshan Ranch Experience the nomadic lifestyle of the Kazakh people at the Southern Pastures, with horseback riding and traditional hospitality.

Urumqi Must-see Attractions

Urumqi, the capital of Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region, offers a rich cultural experience through places like the Xinjiang Uygur autonomous Region Museum with its extensive artifact collection, the Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar with its Islamic architecture and cultural performances, and Hongshan Park, known for its panoramic city views and historical significance.

Urumqi Nightlife Highlights

At night, Urumqi’s Hongshan Park comes alive with a spectacular display of lights, making it a favorite spot for both locals and visitors seeking leisure and entertainment. Its stunning and harmonious nighttime scenery has established it as a new landmark in the city.

Urumqi Where to Stay

Urumqi, the vibrant capital of the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, offers a diverse array of accommodation options catering to various traveler needs. The city's accommodation scene is largely concentrated around major hubs such as the Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar and Urumqi Railway Bureau. Each area provides unique characteristics and conveniences that appeal to different types of visitors, whether you're a business traveler, a tourist, or someone looking to explore the rich cultural tapestry of Urumqi.

Urumqi Food Guide

Urumqi's cuisine is renowned for its variety of lamb dishes, such as the nutritious Hands grab lamb rice glossy thin-skinned dumplings, it is also known for flavorful Da Pan Ji, and golden-crusted baked buns, showcasing the region's distinctive culinary culture and traditions.

Urumqi Useful Guide

Urumqi's transportation network is a vital gateway to the Xinjiang region, with Urumqi Diwopu International Airport and Urumqi Railway Station being the major hubs for intercity travel. Urumqi Diwopu International Airport (IATA: URC, ICAO: ZWWW) is an international airport located 16 km northwest of downtown Urumqi. It offers flights to numerous domestic and international destinations. To reach the city from the airport, travelers can take an airport shuttle bus to the downtown area or opt for a taxi, which costs around 40 to 50 Yuan. Urumqi Railway Station is a major transport hub for high-speed and conventional rail. It operates both high-speed trains to cities like Lanzhou, Zhangye, and Xining, as well as conventional trains to Beijing, Shanghai, and other major cities. The station is located about 10 km northwest of Urumqi downtown and is accessible by taxis and buses, including bus 29, bus 54, bus 301, bus BRT5, and the airport bus.

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Things to do in Urumqi

What to Do

Looking for things to do in Urumqi? We provide up-to-date info on everything from must-see scenic spots to local hangouts.
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The Xinjiang Museum

The Xinjiang Museum

4.8/51,845 Review
"Museums"
Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar

Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar

4.5/52,429 Review
"Night view"
Grand Canyon of Tianshan Mountains

Grand Canyon of Tianshan Mountains

4.2/51,234 Review
"Natural scenery"
"Mountain climbing"
Yema Ancient Ecological Park

Yema Ancient Ecological Park

4.6/5705 Review
"Natural scenery"
Guhya

Guhya

4.2/5382 Review
"Natural scenery"
Hongshan Park

Hongshan Park

4.6/51,059 Review
"Night view"
Nanshan Ranch

Nanshan Ranch

4.3/5285 Review
"Mountain climbing"
Ahmai Dragon's Fantasy World

Ahmai Dragon's Fantasy World

4.7/5814 Review
"Amusement parks"
Xinjiang Living Insect Museum

Xinjiang Living Insect Museum

4.9/528 Review
"Museums"

Where to Stay

Discover the most popular places to stay in Urumqi, complete with recommendations from fellow travelers and special hotel offers
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What to Eat

Want to eat like a local? Don't miss out on these top Urumqi dishes and foodie spots.
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Wei jia yang gao rou

Wei jia yang gao rou

4.3/57 Review
Avg. GBP8/person
"Northwest China Cuisine"
"Time-honored Brand"
Oasis Grand Hotel·Chinese Restaurant

Oasis Grand Hotel·Chinese Restaurant

5.0/51 Review
Avg. GBP20/person
"Xinjiang Cuisine"
ga ADDICTION OF XINJIANG

ga ADDICTION OF XINJIANG

4.6/573 Review
Avg. GBP10/person
"Xinjiang Cuisine"
PANG LAO HAN JIAO MA JI

PANG LAO HAN JIAO MA JI

4.8/544 Review
Avg. GBP10/person
"Halal"
Kaysar

Kaysar

5.0/56 Review
Avg. GBP3/person
"Xinjiang Cuisine"
MARWA YIT

MARWA YIT

4.0/55 Review
Avg. GBP4/person
"Xinjiang Cuisine"
丝路有约·新疆菜(万宴城店)

丝路有约·新疆菜(万宴城店)

4.9/539 Review
Avg. GBP11/person
"Xinjiang Cuisine"
PAN LAO HAN QING ZHEN CAN YIN XING FU LU DIAN

PAN LAO HAN QING ZHEN CAN YIN XING FU LU DIAN

5.0/57 Review
Avg. GBP8/person
"Xinjiang Cuisine"
LOULAN BARBECUE

LOULAN BARBECUE

4.1/534 Review
Avg. GBP10/person
"Barbeque"
BARIKAT

BARIKAT

5.0/512 Review
Avg. GBP1/person
"Snacks"
SHI LIU HONG LE

SHI LIU HONG LE

4.4/520 Review
Avg. GBP10/person
"Xinjiang Cuisine"

Urumqi Moments: Through Travelers' Eyes

Post
#Recommended
#우루무치
#중국여행
#해외여행
Not a foreign country! This is Urumqi, Xinjiang.

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8-Day Tour from Urumqi to Southern Xinjiang: A Detailed Guide to Exploring the Beauty of Xinjiang

8-Day Tour from Urumqi to Southern Xinjiang: A Detailed Guide to Exploring the Beauty of Xinjiang

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Urumqi, the Sparkling Pearl of the Western Regions

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Hey guys, I found a great place to stay - James Joyce Coffetel (Xinxing Street Subway Station)

Hey guys, I found a great place to stay - James Joyce Coffetel (Xinxing Street Subway Station)

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"Urumqi's Hidden Gems: Unveiling the City's Secrets"

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Wake up in Ürümqi, the city closest to the clouds.

Wake up in Ürümqi, the city closest to the clouds.

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Mrs. Isabella Walker Jr.
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What People Are Saying About Urumqi

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The Xinjiang Museum

avatar
_We***68
Teacher Liu Jing's explanation is vivid and interesting. We have to catch a plane. Teacher Liu Jing also explained to us as much as possible in a limited time the history and humanities of Xinjiang. We made a good paving for our trip to southern Xinjiang, but it was a pity that the maintenance of the dry corpse museum was not opened.

Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar

avatar
倩ang🍓🍉🍑🍒
If you want to immersive feel the Xinjiang style, the Xinjiang International Bazaar is a treasure place that must be visited. Stepping into the Grand Bazaar is like a head into the lively Uighur life picture. The architecture here is very ethnic, with the domes and minarets with beautiful colors and exquisite carvings, full of exotic customs. The stalls are dense and full of good things, the handmade carpet is exquisitely textured, the fine needles hide the craftsman's heart; the cold light of the Ingisha knife shimmers, the pattern of the knife body is delicate and unique, practical and artistic. The air is filled with the aroma of gourmet food, the outer skin of the roasted buns is crispy, bite, and the fresh fragrance of the lamb is instantly blooming on the tip of the tongue; the aroma of the roast mutton skewers, fresh and juicy, each mouth is the ultimate temptation for the taste buds. In addition, there are happy national singing and dancing performances, the dancers are enthusiastic and lively, and the melody is lively, so people can't help but dance. Come to Xinjiang International Bazaar and enjoy the enthusiasm and beauty of Xinjiang in one stop.

Grand Canyon of Tianshan Mountains

avatar
旅行家系我
Route➡️: Generally, we gather at around 8 o'clock in the morning. The tour guide usually recommends self-funded Maya Mountain Cableway, Lake Cruise, and buffet. I didn't choose any of them, and I didn't add a penny. I had a great time. 1️⃣ First of all, it's a meal. 🍲 In Fengqing Garden, baked buns are 5 yuan, corn is 5 yuan, and grilled sausages are 3 yuan. It's acceptable to eat whatever you want. 2️⃣ Secondly, after arriving, you will be taken to a Taoist temple first, which is a bit of a waste of time. It is purely for you to spend money. If you don't believe in this, you don't have to go.

Yema Ancient Ecological Park

avatar
Anonymous User
Very distinctive place. I didn't expect there to be such a large place on the roof to raise horses. The BMW ride is really spectacular, there are many horses for visiting, there are small animals in the garden, there are siliconized wood meteorites, suitable for walking the baby.

Liyushan Park

avatar
Princesstt
It is also a park in the central area of Urumqi. This park is also named for the legend of a beautiful eel fairy, so many college entrance examination students will come and walk, and the park can be famous for the legend of the golden list.

Guhya

avatar
小漫爱生活
The scenery of the salt lake is nothing to say in line with the style of Xinjiang. The windmill in the distance is not only turning, and the heart is flying... There is no fun and pure emptying yourself, and no one cares who you are!

Dabancheng District Ancient Town

avatar
M28***35
The ancient town of Dabancheng is located in Dabancheng District, southeast of Urumqi City, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. It is a shining pearl on the Silk Road. It not only has an important geographical location, but also has a profound cultural heritage, rich natural landscapes and cultural and historical relics. Dabancheng is located at the southern foot of Tianshan Mountain. It is an important transportation hub connecting southern and northern Xinjiang. Since ancient times, it has been one of the important towns on the middle road of the Silk Road. The terrain here is dangerous, with Bogda Mountain in the east and Karaucheng Mountain in the west, forming a narrow valley in the middle-the famous "Dabancheng Valley". This special geographical location makes Dabancheng a battleground for military strategists, and also promotes the exchange and integration of Eastern and Western cultures. As early as the Han Dynasty, Dabancheng had become an important military and trade post. Administrative agencies or garrisons were established here in the Tang, Song, Yuan, Ming and Qing dynasties. When it comes to Dabancheng, many people will think of the popular folk song "The Girl in Dabancheng". This song makes countless people full of yearning for this town. In short, whether you are looking for historical traces or enjoying the gifts of nature, Dabancheng can bring you unforgettable memories! Dabancheng Ancient Town is not far from Urumqi, about an hour's drive away, and you can also take a day trip from Urumqi.

Silk Road Mountain Resort

avatar
大鱼
It is the best commercial ski resort at present. It is also the venue for the Winter Olympics. The service and price you get according to the length of your feet are very cost-effective. In addition, the food and facilities are very good. After skiing in several other ski resorts, I found that the equipment here is the most complete. Whether it is the size of the helmet or the size of the board, it is very complete.

Silk Road International Ski Resort

avatar
M81***16
You must buy the helmet, otherwise you will not be allowed to play. If you turn right next to the cable car on the primary road, you must be careful about the large angle slope at the beginning. The main reason is that there is no protection around. It feels that you can add a little protection, otherwise it is too dangerous for novices. If you are a little careless, you will fall or even rush down. I hope the staff of the scenic spot will pay attention.

Hongshan Park

avatar
M23***54
Hongshan Park is a must-visit place for those who come to Urumqi from other places. Opposite Hongshan Park is Yaomo Mountain. There are Dafo Temple and Hongshan Pagoda on the mountain. The park is shaded by green trees. There are various entertainment equipment for children to play.

How much do you know about Urumqi?

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What's the most popular attractions in Urumqi?

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Here are the best places to visit in Urumqi, including: Tianshan Tianchi (“Heavenly Mountain” and “Heavenly Lake”) National Park,Tianshan (“Heavenly Mountain”) Grand Canyon, Ürümqi,Xinjiang Ancient Ecological Park
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Any recommended attractions about nature scenery in Urumqi?

I recommended Silk Road International Ski Resort, Dongbaiyang Valley, Danxia Landform, 101 Provincial Road, Urumqi, Ziwobao Lake, Surasia Valley.
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What's the best food in Urumqi?

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What is a good souvenir from Urumqi?

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