Kashgar Shache: Half-Day Tour of the Twelve Muqam and the Old City

Shache lies southeast of Kashgar, on the western edge of the Taklamakan Desert. It is one of the most populous counties in southern Xinjiang. While less famous than Kashgar, it is a key center for the Twelve Muqam tradition. Its old town and bazaar preserve an authentic, everyday Southern Xinjiang atmosphere.

Location & Directions

Shache is about 200 km from Kashgar, accessible by train or car in approximately two hours. Driving via the highway is faster, offering views of oases and the Gobi desert along the way.

If traveling from Kashgar to Hotan, Shache lies roughly halfway and is a great spot for a half-day stop. There are frequent train services; please check the station board for specific schedules.

Old Town & Alleys

The streets and alleys of the old city in Shache have less of a tourist focus than Kashgar, feeling more like everyday life for locals. With earth-toned courtyard walls, wooden doors, and elderly residents sunning themselves at their doorsteps, the atmosphere is quiet and peaceful.

The old town is undergoing renovation; some areas have been refurbished, so you'll need to search for the original alleyways. Please ask for permission before taking photos and do not enter private courtyards. For comparisons of the old town, refer to the following.How to choose a historic city in Xinjiang。

Twelve Muqam and the Memorial Mausoleum

Shache is closely tied to the preservation and inheritance of the Twelve Muqams, featuring dedicated memorial sites and cultural parks in the county. The Amanisa Khan Memorial Mausoleum is a key attraction, renowned for its architecture and intricate decorations.

Check the schedule for today's performances; don't expect fixed times. To hear Muqam, ask locals or visit the cultural center. You might also find live singing and playing in tea houses.

Bazaar and What to Eat

The county bazaar focuses on daily necessities and agricultural products, offering dried fruits, naan, and grilled meats. Prices are more affordable than in Kashgar, and it's less crowded. Pilaf and tossed noodles are common lunch options with generous portions.

Shache is famous for its pomegranates and almonds; try them in season. When buying dried fruits by weight, taste first before purchasing. For tips on selecting Xinjiang dried fruits, see the guide below.How to buy Xinjiang dried fruits。

How do you schedule half-day and full-day shifts?

Half-day: Arrive in Shache at noon for lunch, explore the Old City and memorial mausoleum, then take an evening bus to Hotan or return to Kashgar. Full day: Visit the Old City and bazaar in the morning, tour nearby villages or cultural parks in the afternoon, and spend the night there.

Shache has limited accommodation options with average conditions. Travelers with high standards should plan to leave the same day. For a comprehensive route of Southern Xinjiang, refer to the following guide.Southern Xinjiang Tour Itineraries。

Note

The Old City is a residential area. Please keep noise to a minimum and avoid lingering outside people's doors while filming. At mosques and memorial sites, follow all visitor rules and dress modestly.

Summer heat is intense; limit outdoor activities during midday. Wear a mask on windy, sandy days. In the county town, taxis and tricycles are the main transport options—agree on the fare before boarding.

The train station in Shache is on the outskirts; take a taxi to reach the city. Trains run infrequently, so check return times in advance. Some areas of the Old City are under construction—plan your route accordingly. The bazaar is quiet in the morning and lively in the afternoon. Check if pomegranates are in season before buying. Restaurants open at noon and close early in the evening. If staying overnight, choose a hotel near the city center. Watch for traffic when traveling with children. Avoid photographing during prayer times at religious sites. Dried fruits can be mailed, so you don't need to carry them all the way.

Shache isn't worth a dedicated trip; a half-day stopover is perfect if you're already passing through.

Treat it as a pit stop between Kashgar and Hotan, and you might be pleasantly surprised.

Taxis are limited in the county town; for short trips, use tricycles and agree on the price before boarding. Some alleys in the old town are under renovation with heavy fencing; follow locals rather than relying solely on navigation. Many restaurants close for lunch, so aim to eat before 2 PM.

If you're interested in Muqam, check out upcoming events at the county cultural center—it's more reliable than waiting for performances at tourist spots. For pomegranates and almonds, head to the bazaar; most vendors are happy to let you taste their goods. No pressure to buy after tasting—just say thanks.

Train service from Shache to Hotan is limited; afternoon departures require early arrival at the station. Take a taxi from downtown to the station and allow 30 minutes. If you miss the train, take a bus instead, though it will take longer.

Noon in Shache is scorching, and the streets are quiet. Find a restaurant with a courtyard to eat under a grape trellis for relief from the heat. After your meal, don't hit the road immediately; rest for half an hour.

The county bazaar is liveliest in the afternoon, with concentrated stalls selling dried fruits and fabrics. It's perfect timing to finish browsing before heading to the station.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it worth staying overnight in Shache?Check the itinerary. A half-day stop along the way is sufficient; staying overnight isn't cost-effective unless you're making a special trip.

Can I watch a Muqam performance?Not fixed; opportunities are more frequent during festivals and cultural events. Otherwise, ask locals for recommendations.

Shache is well-suited as a stop between Kashgar and Hotan. Allow some time for your stay; it can be arranged accordingly.Online SupportDescribe the mode of transportation.

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.