Etiquette for Visiting Religious Sites in Xinjiang: Mosques and Mazars

Mosques and mausoleums in Xinjiang serve as both religious sites and integral parts of daily life. Understanding basic etiquette before visiting is more important than taking a photo.

Preparation Before Entry

Dress conservatively. Women should bring a scarf to cover their hair and avoid shorts or revealing clothing. Remove shoes before entering and place them as directed on-site.

Do not enter the prayer area during prayer times; please wait quietly in the courtyard.

Photo and Behavior

Do not take photos during worship or prayer. Obtain consent before photographing congregants. Avoid loud noises, running, or leaning on architectural elements.

• No photography or walking through during worship services.
• Do not touch the sacred texts or religious artifacts.
• No eating or smoking on campus
• Children must be supervised by an adult.

Mazar and Historical Sites

Mazar are tomb structures. Please remain quiet during visits and do not climb or carve on them. Some mazars are located within villages; verify if they are open to the public before entering.

How to integrate with the itinerary

Include religious sites in your Old Town walking tour, but avoid visiting during prayer times. See the relevant districts below.How to explore Kashgar Old TownSee practices during holidays atFestivals and Folk Customs。

Differences by Venue

Mosques in cities are often open for brief visits outside prayer times. Village shrines (mazars) and small prayer points are typically not open to the public; do not enter if there is no signage. Religious buildings within scenic areas are managed as cultural relics, so follow museum guidelines: do not touch exhibits or furnishings.

If a ceremony is in progress upon arrival, stand quietly at the periphery or leave. Do not take photos with your phone. Some venues may ask visitors to use side entrances; follow on-site instructions rather than making your own judgment.

How to schedule prayer times

During prayer times, crowds gather near the mosque. Visitors should wait quietly outside the prayer hall without entering the sacred area or gathering at the entrance for photos. Use this time to visit nearby tea houses or bazaars and resume your itinerary after prayers conclude.

Women may need to cover their hair and arms in certain areas; carrying a scarf can help you feel more comfortable. During religious activities, do not disturb or comment on ritual details—simply show respect.

The largest crowds attend Friday Jumu'ah prayers. Roads near the mosque may be temporarily restricted; plan your trip to avoid this time. Remove shoes before entering the courtyard and place them with toes pointing outward. Bring a pair of socks to keep your feet comfortable on the cool floor, as is customary when entering the prayer hall.

Please set your phone to silent before entering and do not play music or videos. Before taking photos, check for "no photography" signs; if none are visible, ask for permission first. Please take all trash with you when leaving to keep the venue tidy—this is a basic sign of respect.

Etiquette during the holidaysFestivals and Folk Customs of XinjiangFor walking routes in the Old Town, seeHow to explore Kashgar Old Town。

Related reading

• Festivals and Folk Traditions in Xinjiang: How to Participate
• How to Explore Kashgar Old City: Alleys, Bazaars, and Handcraft Experiences
• Courtyards of Old Urban Houses in Xinjiang: Kashgar, Yining, and Hotan
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Frequently Asked Questions

Can non-Muslims enter a mosque?

Some locations are open to visitors outside prayer hours; please follow on-site guidelines. Dress modestly and maintain quiet. Prayer areas are not accessible during prayer times.

Is a headscarf required during the visit?

Women are advised to cover their hair with a scarf when entering religious sites; most venues display signage at the entrance. Conservative attire that avoids exposure is the basic requirement.

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.