How to Visit the Kashgar Cattle and Sheep Bazaar: Time, Location, and Tips

The Kashgar livestock bazaar is a local marketplace, not a tourist show. It's busiest on Sundays, when cattle, sheep, and horses gather in an open lot. Buyers check sheep by opening their mouths to inspect teeth; sellers squat on the ground smoking. If you want to see authentic Southern Xinjiang, this place is far more direct than any scenic spot.

When does trading open?

Traditionally, markets are busiest on Sundays from morning until noon, tapering off in the afternoon. In recent years, some locations have shifted to different operating days. Check with locals before heading out to avoid a wasted trip.

Expect higher transaction volumes, larger crowds, and tighter spaces around holidays. To take photos without being surrounded, arrive early—around 9 a.m., when lighting and crowd levels are ideal.

Location & Transportation

Bazar is located in the outskirts of Kashgar, about a 30-minute drive from the Old City. There are no direct public buses; taking a taxi or hiring a car is more convenient. Book your return ride in advance, as it can be difficult to find one after the event ends.

Instruct the driver to go to "Niu Yang Bazaar" or provide the specific township name. Do not just say "Bazaar," as the city's main bazaar is a different location. For navigation within Kashgar Old City, please refer to the following route guide.How to explore Kashgar Old Town。

How to view the site?

Do not enter the trading pen; observe from the outside. Buyers and sellers negotiate using hand gestures and jargon, so it is normal for outsiders to be unable to follow or interject. The ropes and wooden stakes on the ground are for tethering livestock—please watch your step.

The smell and dust are strong. Wear clothes and shoes you don't mind getting dirty. A mask can help a bit. Hold children's hands tightly; livestock may panic and run off.

Photography and Etiquette

Always ask for permission before photographing people, especially children and seniors. If someone declines, put your camera down—no stealth shots. Avoid blocking transactions to get a better shot, and don't chase livestock for photos.

This is a workplace, not a tourist attraction. Maintain distance, speak less, and observe more. Refer to the section on religious and folk customs for appropriate etiquette.Etiquette for Visiting Religious Sites in Xinjiang。

How to connect with the ancient city

A common schedule is to visit the bazaar on Sunday morning, return to the city center for lunch, and explore the ancient city in the afternoon. One to two hours at the bazaar is sufficient; staying longer can be tiring due to dust and strong odors.

If you have a flight to catch that day, don't schedule the bazaar as your last activity; traffic can be heavy when it closes. Consider other one-day tours around Kashgar instead.One-Day Tour Around Kashgar。

What do you want to eat?

Simple eateries near Bazaar serve pilaf, kebabs, and tea. Hygiene is average; those with sensitive stomachs should avoid raw or cold foods. For a safer dining experience, wait until you return to the city center for a full meal.

The market features stalls selling livestock feed and farm tools, along with general merchandise that's worth browsing but may not be suitable for purchase. For dried fruits, the city center market is a better option.

The bazaar floor is unpaved; dust swirls in strong winds. Wear dark clothing for easier cleanup. Protect your camera from dust and move to the windward side when changing lenses. Do not touch livestock, especially rams and stallions. If a dispute arises, do not crowd around. Bring cash, as small vendors may not accept mobile payments. Traffic is heavy at closing time; arrange a pickup spot with your driver in advance. If it rains, the ground becomes muddy—consider rescheduling. Sundays are busiest in the morning; arrive after 10 AM for a quieter experience. After taking photos, show them to the subject; this is a common courtesy.

Treat it as an observation, not a check-in.

Arrive an hour early for better light, fewer crowds, and a chance to chat with vendors.

Small shops outside the market sell naan and tea at low prices, but hygiene is questionable. Travelers with sensitive stomachs should wait until they return to the city center to eat. There are no restrooms inside the market; please use facilities at nearby gas stations or restaurants before entering.

If using a telephoto lens, stay outside the fence and avoid crowding into the trading area to compress the frame. Step aside when buyers lead sheep past—startled livestock can charge. Pack your camera away after shooting; there's more dust than you might expect.

There's a tea house by the market where you can sit for a while. A pot of tea costs just a few yuan, and you can watch buyers and sellers negotiate. Don't loudly discuss prices nearby, and don't bid on behalf of others.

The ground is covered in loose dust, so your shoes will turn white after walking around. Wear dark-colored shoes and clean them at the hotel later. When it's windy, wear a mask—there's significant sand and odor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the bazaar open every day?Usually open weekly, with Sundays being the busiest. Specific dates vary by location.

Are children allowed?Yes, but keep it on a leash, stay away from livestock and vehicles, and wear a mask when there's heavy dust.

The Bazaar is best scheduled for the morning of your second day in Kashgar. Please confirm if it's open that day bySouthern Xinjiang Tour ItinerariesRefer to or viaOnline SupportInquire.

Editor's Note: Travel itineraries in Kashgar and southern Xinjiang are highly seasonal. This article has been verified by China International Travel Service (Xinjiang) based on current conditions. For confirmation of itinerary pacing and vehicle arrangements, please contact our local travel consultant or explore more Xinjiang travel guides on this site.