Shopping and Souvenirs

You can't miss the Yekshenba Bazaar, also known as the Sunday Bazaar, at Aizilaiti Lu. It's the mother of all bazaars. Farmers from out of town will congregate by their donkey carts just to hawk their wares at the famed Sunday bazaar. The visual spectacle of people, animals and items of every imaginable shape, size and function will send your cameras into overdrive.

If you miss the Sunday bazaar, the daily bazaars are still the focus of much activity. Centuries before, caravans would roll into Kashgar with Chinese silk, exquisite porcelain and exotic spices. Farmers and herdsmen continue this age-old tradition, selling anything from leather ware, Turkish teapots to and beautifully woven carpets. Some stalls sell a little of everything. Others offer specialty goods. Kashgar is famous for its hats and knives, handmade hats can cost up to RMB 8 to RMB 300.

Located in the eastern suburb of Kashgar, the East Gate Bazaar is another souvenir hunter's paradise. Look for handmade doppa hats and exquisitely made Yengsar knives.

If you have energy left, head for the animal market. Rows and rows of cattle, mules, camels and exotic songbirds are looking for new owners. You might want to try luck at bargaining for a horse, then you could ride back to your hotel in style.