The Accommodation Game in Xinjiang
Xinjiang isn’t exactly the Maldives when it comes to hotels. You’re not coming here for the luxury resorts (though they exist). You’re coming for the experience — and that includes where you sleep.
Here’s the full breakdown of your options, from “I’m on a backpacker budget” to “I want to be comfortable.”
The Options (And What They Actually Look Like)
1. Budget Hotels (¥80-180/night)
These are everywhere. They’re basic — a bed, a (sometimes) clean bathroom, A/C or heating depending on season. Don’t expect charm, but they’re functional.
The catch: In cheaper places, the “Western toilet” might be a squatter, and the hot water might be “sometimes.”
Book through: Ctrip (English version: Trip.com) or just walk in (often cheaper).
2. Mid-Range Hotels (¥200-500/night)
Now we’re talking. Proper beds, reliable hot water, A/C and heating, sometimes even a gym or pool.
The best ones: The ones near scenic areas that are family-run. You get local advice at the front desk (because the “front desk” is someone’s cousin).
3. Boutique Guesthouses in Kashgar Old City (¥150-400/night)
This is the gem. Converted traditional homes inside the Old City. Wake up, open your door, and you’re in the maze.
My favorite: The ones with a courtyard where breakfast is served. ¥200-350/night. Book ahead in peak season.
4. Ger (Yurt) Stays (¥150-400/person including meals)
At Sayram Lake, on the grasslands, and near Kanas — you can stay in a Mongolian ger.
What it’s actually like: A circular felt tent with a bed (sometimes heated), shared bathroom facilities (usually a squat toilet and cold water sink 50 meters away), and the most incredible sunrise you’ve ever seen.
Meals included: Usually dinner and breakfast are part of the package. The food is simple — lamb stew, naan, tea.
5. Inside Scenic Areas (¥200-800/night)
Kanas, Hemu, and Sayram Lake have accommodation inside the scenic area. It costs more, but you get sunrise and sunset without the day-trippers.
Book ahead: These fill up 2-3 weeks in advance in September-October.
The Booking Strategy
Peak Season (July-August, National Day Week)
Book 3-4 weeks ahead. Prices double. Availability disappears.
Shoulder Season (April-May, September-October)
1-2 weeks ahead is fine. Walk-ins are sometimes possible (but risky).
Winter (November-March)
You can often negotiate in person. Prices drop 40-60%.
The Verdict
Don’t overthink accommodation in Xinjiang. You’re not coming for the hotels.
That said — spending an extra ¥100-200/night for a place with character (boutique guesthouse, ger stay, inside a scenic area) is money well spent. The memories from those places stick with you.
The generic ¥120 hotel room? You’ll forget it before you’ve even left the province.
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Published on Xinjiang Travels — Real travel advice from someone who’s been there.