Kashgar, Xinjiang: Exploring China's Westernmost City

Inside China’s Most Controversial Region (Uyghur Autonomous Region) 🇨🇳

Destination:ChinaProvince:XinjiangCity:Kashgar
Inside China’s Most Controversial Region (Uyghur Autonomous Region) 🇨🇳
Ken Abroad2024-12-0851 min

Kashgar, Xinjiang, Uyghur Autonomous Region - China's most controversial area. Kashgar, Xinjiang China - I traveled to the far west of China to visit the Uyghur Autonomous Region. This region is often all over western media for not so good reasons. But as usual, I am curious to see things with my own eyes. I took a flight to Kashgar, sometimes also called Kashi, which is the most western city in all of China, very fast west in China's Xinjiang province. Here, 85% of the ~800.000 people are Uyghur Muslim people. Xinjiang is also the biggest province in China and some people even believe that Westerners are not allowed to enter this region. Well, that's completely wrong. Join me as we explore around to get to know this region of China, meet local Ughyur Muslims, try local food and see what Kashgar, China is really like!

--- Ken Abroad
December 8, 2024, Winter in China

Video Chapters

  1. 0:00Xinjiang introduction
  2. 0:45Kashgar city center
  3. 1:04Id Kah Mosque visit
  4. 1:25Exploring Kashgar markets
  5. 2:43Shopping for gloves and hat
  6. 3:19Ancient Old Town
  7. 12:16Food street adventure
  8. 15:07Meat filled pastries
  9. 21:57Non-tourist areas
  10. 30:34Local neighborhood exploration
  11. 40:35People's Park visit
  12. 50:13Mao statue discussion

Ken Abroad explores Xinjiang's Kashgar, experiencing its rich culture, delicious food, and unique blend of East and West. A journey filled with surprising discoveries and unforgettable moments.

Travel Guides & Tips in this video

  1. Tip 1Be prepared for varying entry requirements and potential waiting times when visiting religious sites like mosques. Prayer times may restrict access to certain areas. (2:11)
  2. Tip 2Check the weather forecast and pack accordingly. Temperatures can fluctuate, especially in mountainous regions. (2:43)
  3. Tip 3Explore the ancient Old Town to experience the rich history and architecture of Kashgar, dating back to the Silk Road era. (3:19)
  4. Tip 4Venture into the local food markets and street stalls to sample the diverse and delicious Uyghur cuisine. Don't be afraid to try new things! (12:16)
  5. Tip 5Try the local meat-filled pastries, a regional specialty. Note the unique flavors and cooking methods. (15:07)
  6. Tip 6Explore beyond the tourist areas to gain a deeper understanding of the local culture and daily life. This will provide a more authentic experience. (21:57)
  7. Tip 7Observe the local customs and etiquette. Respectful behavior is always appreciated. (30:34)
  8. Tip 8Visit local parks and public spaces to observe the daily life and social interactions of the local community. (40:35)
  9. Tip 9Enjoy street food! This is a great way to experience local flavors and interact with vendors. (46:10)

Ken Abroad's journey to Xinjiang, China's Uyghur Autonomous Region, unveils a captivating contrast between ancient culture and modern China. Explore Kashgar's ancient Old Town, a historical trading hub dating back to the Silk Road, with its unique architecture and bustling markets. Witness Ken's interactions with locals, savor the flavors of Xinjiang cuisine, and experience the vibrant atmosphere of a city where East meets West. The video also delves into the region's complexities, showcasing both the beauty and the controversies surrounding this fascinating part of China.

More about the current video:( 28 / 32 )

Inside China’s Most Controversial Region (Uyghur Autonomous Region) 🇨🇳

This video follows Ken Abroad as he explores Kashgar, Xinjiang, a region often portrayed negatively in Western media. He aims to experience the region firsthand, visiting the Id Kah Mosque (one of China's largest), navigating local markets, and sampling Uyghur cuisine. The journey is filled with unique encounters, from bartering for a hat in a bustling market to getting a haircut at a local barbershop where he experiences a thorough, detailed cut and wash. Ken interacts with locals, learning a few Uyghur phrases and appreciating the blend of Uyghur and Chinese cultures. He highlights the city's cleanliness and the omnipresent security cameras, sparking a discussion about safety and surveillance. His visit to the Id Kah Mosque is particularly noteworthy, showcasing the challenges of accessing certain areas during prayer times. The video concludes with Ken reflecting on the stark contrast between the portrayal of Xinjiang in the Western media and his own positive experiences, emphasizing the importance of personal observation and respectful dialogue. Throughout, Ken’s genuine curiosity and engaging personality make the video a compelling exploration of a complex and often misunderstood region.

The video begins in the city center of Kashgar, near the borders of Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Pakistan. Ken notes the significant Uyghur Muslim population and his anticipation of visiting the Id Kah Mosque. He encounters unexpected challenges gaining entry, initially being told to return later due to prayer times. This leads him to explore the local markets and food stalls, showcasing the vibrant culinary scene and his enjoyment of local delicacies such as meat-filled pastries and pomegranate juice.

Ken's experience extends beyond the tourist areas. He visits a local barbershop, receiving a detailed haircut from a skilled barber, engaging in friendly conversation. He searches for a specific dish he enjoyed in a previous trip, showcasing the differences between tourist and local areas. His exploration includes a surprising discovery of a large underground mall. He concludes his journey at a public square where locals are dancing and enjoying music, a scene that contrasts with some of the negative narratives surrounding the region.

The video concludes with Ken's personal reflection on the complexities of Xinjiang, highlighting the differences between his experiences and the often-negative portrayals in Western media. He emphasizes the importance of personal experience and respectful engagement in understanding such a diverse and historically significant region. The video is a testament to Ken's commitment to exploring the world with an open mind and a respectful approach, inviting viewers to form their own opinions based on observation and understanding.

Kashgar, Xinjiang: Exploring China's Westernmost City

Kashgar, Xinjiang, Uyghur Autonomous Region - China's most controversial area Kashgar, Xinjiang China - I traveled to the far west of China to visit the Uyghur Autonomous Region. This region is often all over western media for not so good reasons. But as usual, I am curious to see things with my own...

Kashgar Xinjiang Travel Vlog: Exploring Ancient City & Culture

Ken Abroad journeyed to Xinjiang's Kashgar, a city often portrayed negatively in Western media. Intrigued, he explored this westernmost Chinese city, home to a predominantly Uyghur Muslim population. He aimed to experience the culture firsthand, meet locals, sample the cuisine, and witness daily life, dispelling misconceptions about the region's accessibility to Westerners. His visit provided a personal perspective on this unique part of China.

Attractions in this video: Id Kah Mosque, Kashgar Old Town, People's Park