How to Explore Kashgar Crafts Street: Pottery, Copperware, and Woodwork

Hidden within Kashgar's Old City alleys are numerous workshops crafting earthenware, copperware, woodwork, and musical instruments, where artisans sit at their doorways hammering away. The Artisan Street gathers these crafts in one place, offering visitors a chance to watch the making process up close and purchase handmade goods.

Where is it? How do I get there?

Artisan Street is located within Kashgar Old City, just a short walk from the Id Kah Mosque. The alley is narrow with sparse signage; follow the crowd or ask shopkeepers for directions.

Enter through the East Gate of the Old Town, walk down the main street, then turn into a quiet alley—these less crowded spots are often the most interesting. For a general layout of the Old City, refer to:How to explore Kashgar Old Town。

What skill are you looking for?

In the earthenware workshop, you can watch pottery wheels spin and intricate painting come to life. The copper shop displays hand-hammered kettles and plates. The woodshop crafts small stools and dining sets, while the music store is filled with dutars and rawaps. Each workshop is modest in size, and most masters are happy to let visitors observe their craft.

Please stand back while viewing to avoid touching tools or unfinished items. If you'd like to film the creation process, please ask first. Artisans focus deeply on their work—please don't suddenly thrust a camera into their face.

What to buy and how to negotiate

Pottery and copperware make great souvenirs, but consider their weight and fragility. Smaller items like bowls, plates, and copper kettles are easier to pack. Instruments vary widely in tuning and materials; if you're not an expert, buy them as decorative pieces.

Handcrafted items are priced higher than machine-made ones; negotiation room varies by seller. Avoid slashing prices in half immediately—ask about craftsmanship and labor time first. Confirm shipping availability before purchasing, and request extra packaging for fragile items.

Camera & Experience

Doors, windows, floral tiles, and drying clay pieces in the alley make great subjects. Morning light is soft with fewer people; afternoons are crowded, and the narrow alley can easily block others.

Some workshops offer hands-on experiences like pottery painting or copper forging. Check availability and pricing in advance. These activities are often more engaging than buying finished items, but seating is subject to daily availability.

Half-day route

Here's a suggested itinerary: Enter the Old City from the side of Id Kah Mosque in the morning. First, explore the Artisan Street, then visit the pottery workshops. For lunch, enjoy pilaf or hand-pulled noodles nearby. In the afternoon, relax at a historic tea house for an hour or two.

One to two hours is enough for Zhiren Street; no need to rush. Leave more time for unexpected encounters in the alleys—it's far more enjoyable than ticking off a checklist. For accommodations and dining in the old town, refer to...One-Day Kashi Culinary Tour。

Note

The Old Town is a residential area. Elders and children sit by the entrance; please ask for permission before taking photos. Do not enter courtyards unless invited. Dispose of trash properly—alley drainage ditches are narrow.

Keep your receipts and inspect fragile items upon delivery. Shipping home is often more convenient than carrying everything yourself. For etiquette at religious sites, please refer to the guidelines below.Etiquette for Visiting Religious Sites in Xinjiang。

Stores on Craftsman Street open late in the morning; it's best to visit after 10 AM. Pottery is fragile—ask the shopkeeper to wrap it carefully. Metalwork is heavy, so check weight restrictions for shipping. You can test instruments in person; don't hesitate to ask questions if you're unsure. Avoid blocking alleys while taking photos. Wait for tour groups to pass before snapping pictures. There are many stray cats and dogs in the old town; please do not disturb them. When buying handmade carpets, verify the material and dimensions. If you prefer not to carry them, ask about shipping options. Prices are negotiable, but avoid offering too low a price.

Artisans take their time. So should you.

Save items you want to buy for now, then decide after browsing.

Dried clay pots are curing in the courtyard. Please avoid touching them as you walk by. To photograph the wheel-throwing process, stand at the entrance and observe for a moment until the artisan signals you to proceed with your camera. The sound of copper hammering is loud; prolonged exposure can tire your ears. Take breaks outside to clear your head.

For small copper items, ask the shopkeeper to wrap them securely and carry them in your clothing to avoid damage during checked baggage. At music shops, you may try playing instruments like the dutar or rawap, but always ask for permission first—do not remove them yourself.

Most workshops in the alleys are free to enter with no mandatory spending. If you watch but don't buy, just say "thank you" and leave. If a master is teaching an apprentice, observe from outside—do not enter the room.

Glazed pottery looks best in natural light—check it near the entrance before buying. Copper items oxidize over time; gently wipe them with a soft cloth after bringing them home, and avoid using steel wool.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Job Street require a ticket?No, it is part of the old town district and open all day. Some workshop experiences are available for an additional fee.

Can I ship handmade items home?Most shops can arrange shipping. Fragile items should be insured; shipping costs are additional.

Zhiren Street is best scheduled for the first half-day in Kashgar. You can group the Old City, tea houses, and bazaar together bySouthern Xinjiang Tour ItinerariesRefer to or viaOnline SupportSpecify the number of days.

Supplementary Note: This article is compiled by the route consultant of Xinjiang China International Travel Service (Xinjiang CITS). South Xinjiang travel information and Xinjiang travel updates vary by season and road conditions. For itinerary pacing and vehicle arrangements, please consult a local travel agency consultant online.