- “The bread! It was so good and we bought it from a man who smiled at me.”
- “The horses! I rode a horse and it was bumpy but fun.”
- “The yurt. Can we live in a yurt?”
- “The market in Kashgar. It was crazy and loud and I liked it.”
- “The lake that was so blue. I took a picture and it’s my wallpaper.”
- “The food was actually really good. When can we go back?”
- Breakfast: Buy bread, jam, and fruit from local markets. Picnic-style breakfasts were a hit with my kids.
- Lunch: Find a restaurant that has “safe” options (plain noodles, rice, bread). Order first, then let the kids be adventurous if they want.
- Dinner: This is the meal to be adventurous. By dinner, you’re settled, the kids are relaxed, and they might actually try that lamb kebab.
- “The bread! It was so good and we bought it from a man who smiled at me.”
- “The horses! I rode a horse and it was bumpy but fun.”
- “The yurt. Can we live in a yurt?”
- “The market in Kashgar. It was crazy and loud and I liked it.”
- “The lake that was so blue. I took a picture and it’s my wallpaper.”
- “The food was actually really good. When can we go back?”
- Family rooms or suites (you don’t want to share a tiny room)
- Places with English-speaking staff (rare, but they exist in Urumqi and Kashgar)
- Guesthouses over hotels (usually more character, and owners often have kids themselves)
- Breakfast: Buy bread, jam, and fruit from local markets. Picnic-style breakfasts were a hit with my kids.
- Lunch: Find a restaurant that has “safe” options (plain noodles, rice, bread). Order first, then let the kids be adventurous if they want.
- Dinner: This is the meal to be adventurous. By dinner, you’re settled, the kids are relaxed, and they might actually try that lamb kebab.
- “The bread! It was so good and we bought it from a man who smiled at me.”
- “The horses! I rode a horse and it was bumpy but fun.”
- “The yurt. Can we live in a yurt?”
- “The market in Kashgar. It was crazy and loud and I liked it.”
- “The lake that was so blue. I took a picture and it’s my wallpaper.”
- “The food was actually really good. When can we go back?”
- Toilet paper (always)
- Hand sanitizer (the good stuff)
- Snacks (so many snacks)
- Any medications your kids need (pharmacies exist but language barrier is real)
- Entertainment for travel days (tablets, books, travel games)
- Family rooms or suites (you don’t want to share a tiny room)
- Places with English-speaking staff (rare, but they exist in Urumqi and Kashgar)
- Guesthouses over hotels (usually more character, and owners often have kids themselves)
- Breakfast: Buy bread, jam, and fruit from local markets. Picnic-style breakfasts were a hit with my kids.
- Lunch: Find a restaurant that has “safe” options (plain noodles, rice, bread). Order first, then let the kids be adventurous if they want.
- Dinner: This is the meal to be adventurous. By dinner, you’re settled, the kids are relaxed, and they might actually try that lamb kebab.
- “The bread! It was so good and we bought it from a man who smiled at me.”
- “The horses! I rode a horse and it was bumpy but fun.”
- “The yurt. Can we live in a yurt?”
- “The market in Kashgar. It was crazy and loud and I liked it.”
- “The lake that was so blue. I took a picture and it’s my wallpaper.”
- “The food was actually really good. When can we go back?”
- Taxkorgan (too high altitude, long drive, limited facilities)
- 和田 (interesting, but long travel days and not much “kid stuff”)
- Trying to do more than 2-3 places in 2 weeks (you’ll all be exhausted)
- Toilet paper (always)
- Hand sanitizer (the good stuff)
- Snacks (so many snacks)
- Any medications your kids need (pharmacies exist but language barrier is real)
- Entertainment for travel days (tablets, books, travel games)
- Family rooms or suites (you don’t want to share a tiny room)
- Places with English-speaking staff (rare, but they exist in Urumqi and Kashgar)
- Guesthouses over hotels (usually more character, and owners often have kids themselves)
- Breakfast: Buy bread, jam, and fruit from local markets. Picnic-style breakfasts were a hit with my kids.
- Lunch: Find a restaurant that has “safe” options (plain noodles, rice, bread). Order first, then let the kids be adventurous if they want.
- Dinner: This is the meal to be adventurous. By dinner, you’re settled, the kids are relaxed, and they might actually try that lamb kebab.
- “The bread! It was so good and we bought it from a man who smiled at me.”
- “The horses! I rode a horse and it was bumpy but fun.”
- “The yurt. Can we live in a yurt?”
- “The market in Kashgar. It was crazy and loud and I liked it.”
- “The lake that was so blue. I took a picture and it’s my wallpaper.”
- “The food was actually really good. When can we go back?”
- Turpan (ancient ruins = surprisingly cool for kids who like “old stuff”)
- 伊犁 (if you’re there in spring/summer, the grasslands are epic)
- Taxkorgan (too high altitude, long drive, limited facilities)
- 和田 (interesting, but long travel days and not much “kid stuff”)
- Trying to do more than 2-3 places in 2 weeks (you’ll all be exhausted)
- Toilet paper (always)
- Hand sanitizer (the good stuff)
- Snacks (so many snacks)
- Any medications your kids need (pharmacies exist but language barrier is real)
- Entertainment for travel days (tablets, books, travel games)
- Family rooms or suites (you don’t want to share a tiny room)
- Places with English-speaking staff (rare, but they exist in Urumqi and Kashgar)
- Guesthouses over hotels (usually more character, and owners often have kids themselves)
- Breakfast: Buy bread, jam, and fruit from local markets. Picnic-style breakfasts were a hit with my kids.
- Lunch: Find a restaurant that has “safe” options (plain noodles, rice, bread). Order first, then let the kids be adventurous if they want.
- Dinner: This is the meal to be adventurous. By dinner, you’re settled, the kids are relaxed, and they might actually try that lamb kebab.
- “The bread! It was so good and we bought it from a man who smiled at me.”
- “The horses! I rode a horse and it was bumpy but fun.”
- “The yurt. Can we live in a yurt?”
- “The market in Kashgar. It was crazy and loud and I liked it.”
- “The lake that was so blue. I took a picture and it’s my wallpaper.”
- “The food was actually really good. When can we go back?”
- Fly from Kanas (or return to Urumqi and fly – either way, fly)
- Old City (get lost, find snacks, it’s like a maze they can explore)
- Sunday Market (sensory overload in a good way)
- Short day trip to the Karakoram Highway (if kids are older and can handle altitude)
- Turpan (ancient ruins = surprisingly cool for kids who like “old stuff”)
- 伊犁 (if you’re there in spring/summer, the grasslands are epic)
- Taxkorgan (too high altitude, long drive, limited facilities)
- 和田 (interesting, but long travel days and not much “kid stuff”)
- Trying to do more than 2-3 places in 2 weeks (you’ll all be exhausted)
- Toilet paper (always)
- Hand sanitizer (the good stuff)
- Snacks (so many snacks)
- Any medications your kids need (pharmacies exist but language barrier is real)
- Entertainment for travel days (tablets, books, travel games)
- Family rooms or suites (you don’t want to share a tiny room)
- Places with English-speaking staff (rare, but they exist in Urumqi and Kashgar)
- Guesthouses over hotels (usually more character, and owners often have kids themselves)
- Breakfast: Buy bread, jam, and fruit from local markets. Picnic-style breakfasts were a hit with my kids.
- Lunch: Find a restaurant that has “safe” options (plain noodles, rice, bread). Order first, then let the kids be adventurous if they want.
- Dinner: This is the meal to be adventurous. By dinner, you’re settled, the kids are relaxed, and they might actually try that lamb kebab.
- “The bread! It was so good and we bought it from a man who smiled at me.”
- “The horses! I rode a horse and it was bumpy but fun.”
- “The yurt. Can we live in a yurt?”
- “The market in Kashgar. It was crazy and loud and I liked it.”
- “The lake that was so blue. I took a picture and it’s my wallpaper.”
- “The food was actually really good. When can we go back?”
- Fly from Urumqi (don’t drive – save the kids from 10 hours in a car)
- Horse riding near the lake
- Easy hikes (there are stroller-friendly paths near the lake shore)
- Stay in a yurt camp (kids LOVED this – sleeping in a tent but with beds)
- Fly from Kanas (or return to Urumqi and fly – either way, fly)
- Old City (get lost, find snacks, it’s like a maze they can explore)
- Sunday Market (sensory overload in a good way)
- Short day trip to the Karakoram Highway (if kids are older and can handle altitude)
- Turpan (ancient ruins = surprisingly cool for kids who like “old stuff”)
- 伊犁 (if you’re there in spring/summer, the grasslands are epic)
- Taxkorgan (too high altitude, long drive, limited facilities)
- 和田 (interesting, but long travel days and not much “kid stuff”)
- Trying to do more than 2-3 places in 2 weeks (you’ll all be exhausted)
- Toilet paper (always)
- Hand sanitizer (the good stuff)
- Snacks (so many snacks)
- Any medications your kids need (pharmacies exist but language barrier is real)
- Entertainment for travel days (tablets, books, travel games)
- Family rooms or suites (you don’t want to share a tiny room)
- Places with English-speaking staff (rare, but they exist in Urumqi and Kashgar)
- Guesthouses over hotels (usually more character, and owners often have kids themselves)
- Breakfast: Buy bread, jam, and fruit from local markets. Picnic-style breakfasts were a hit with my kids.
- Lunch: Find a restaurant that has “safe” options (plain noodles, rice, bread). Order first, then let the kids be adventurous if they want.
- Dinner: This is the meal to be adventurous. By dinner, you’re settled, the kids are relaxed, and they might actually try that lamb kebab.
- “The bread! It was so good and we bought it from a man who smiled at me.”
- “The horses! I rode a horse and it was bumpy but fun.”
- “The yurt. Can we live in a yurt?”
- “The market in Kashgar. It was crazy and loud and I liked it.”
- “The lake that was so blue. I took a picture and it’s my wallpaper.”
- “The food was actually really good. When can we go back?”
- Heavenly Lake (cable car + boat ride = kid-friendly)
- Xinjiang Museum (actually good, and air-conditioned)
- Urumqi city center (bowl of laghman noodles, check)
- Fly from Urumqi (don’t drive – save the kids from 10 hours in a car)
- Horse riding near the lake
- Easy hikes (there are stroller-friendly paths near the lake shore)
- Stay in a yurt camp (kids LOVED this – sleeping in a tent but with beds)
- Fly from Kanas (or return to Urumqi and fly – either way, fly)
- Old City (get lost, find snacks, it’s like a maze they can explore)
- Sunday Market (sensory overload in a good way)
- Short day trip to the Karakoram Highway (if kids are older and can handle altitude)
- Turpan (ancient ruins = surprisingly cool for kids who like “old stuff”)
- 伊犁 (if you’re there in spring/summer, the grasslands are epic)
- Taxkorgan (too high altitude, long drive, limited facilities)
- 和田 (interesting, but long travel days and not much “kid stuff”)
- Trying to do more than 2-3 places in 2 weeks (you’ll all be exhausted)
- Toilet paper (always)
- Hand sanitizer (the good stuff)
- Snacks (so many snacks)
- Any medications your kids need (pharmacies exist but language barrier is real)
- Entertainment for travel days (tablets, books, travel games)
- Family rooms or suites (you don’t want to share a tiny room)
- Places with English-speaking staff (rare, but they exist in Urumqi and Kashgar)
- Guesthouses over hotels (usually more character, and owners often have kids themselves)
- Breakfast: Buy bread, jam, and fruit from local markets. Picnic-style breakfasts were a hit with my kids.
- Lunch: Find a restaurant that has “safe” options (plain noodles, rice, bread). Order first, then let the kids be adventurous if they want.
- Dinner: This is the meal to be adventurous. By dinner, you’re settled, the kids are relaxed, and they might actually try that lamb kebab.
- “The bread! It was so good and we bought it from a man who smiled at me.”
- “The horses! I rode a horse and it was bumpy but fun.”
- “The yurt. Can we live in a yurt?”
- “The market in Kashgar. It was crazy and loud and I liked it.”
- “The lake that was so blue. I took a picture and it’s my wallpaper.”
- “The food was actually really good. When can we go back?”
- Stick to Urumqi + Heavenly Lake + maybe Kashgar. Don’t try to do the full loop.
- Bring a stroller or carrier for long walks.
- Pack more food than you think you need.
- Lower your expectations about “cultural experiences.” At this age, they’ll remember the horses and the bread, not the history.
- Heavenly Lake (cable car + boat ride = kid-friendly)
- Xinjiang Museum (actually good, and air-conditioned)
- Urumqi city center (bowl of laghman noodles, check)
- Fly from Urumqi (don’t drive – save the kids from 10 hours in a car)
- Horse riding near the lake
- Easy hikes (there are stroller-friendly paths near the lake shore)
- Stay in a yurt camp (kids LOVED this – sleeping in a tent but with beds)
- Fly from Kanas (or return to Urumqi and fly – either way, fly)
- Old City (get lost, find snacks, it’s like a maze they can explore)
- Sunday Market (sensory overload in a good way)
- Short day trip to the Karakoram Highway (if kids are older and can handle altitude)
- Turpan (ancient ruins = surprisingly cool for kids who like “old stuff”)
- 伊犁 (if you’re there in spring/summer, the grasslands are epic)
- Taxkorgan (too high altitude, long drive, limited facilities)
- 和田 (interesting, but long travel days and not much “kid stuff”)
- Trying to do more than 2-3 places in 2 weeks (you’ll all be exhausted)
- Toilet paper (always)
- Hand sanitizer (the good stuff)
- Snacks (so many snacks)
- Any medications your kids need (pharmacies exist but language barrier is real)
- Entertainment for travel days (tablets, books, travel games)
- Family rooms or suites (you don’t want to share a tiny room)
- Places with English-speaking staff (rare, but they exist in Urumqi and Kashgar)
- Guesthouses over hotels (usually more character, and owners often have kids themselves)
- Breakfast: Buy bread, jam, and fruit from local markets. Picnic-style breakfasts were a hit with my kids.
- Lunch: Find a restaurant that has “safe” options (plain noodles, rice, bread). Order first, then let the kids be adventurous if they want.
- Dinner: This is the meal to be adventurous. By dinner, you’re settled, the kids are relaxed, and they might actually try that lamb kebab.
- “The bread! It was so good and we bought it from a man who smiled at me.”
- “The horses! I rode a horse and it was bumpy but fun.”
- “The yurt. Can we live in a yurt?”
- “The market in Kashgar. It was crazy and loud and I liked it.”
- “The lake that was so blue. I took a picture and it’s my wallpaper.”
- “The food was actually really good. When can we go back?”
- Riding horses near Kanas Lake (with a guide leading the horse – safe but exciting)
- Seeing yurts and learning how Kazakh families live
- The food markets in Kashgar (so much color, smells, and “can I try that?”)
- The vastness of it all – my 9-year-old said it made her feel “small in a good way”
- Stick to Urumqi + Heavenly Lake + maybe Kashgar. Don’t try to do the full loop.
- Bring a stroller or carrier for long walks.
- Pack more food than you think you need.
- Lower your expectations about “cultural experiences.” At this age, they’ll remember the horses and the bread, not the history.
- Heavenly Lake (cable car + boat ride = kid-friendly)
- Xinjiang Museum (actually good, and air-conditioned)
- Urumqi city center (bowl of laghman noodles, check)
- Fly from Urumqi (don’t drive – save the kids from 10 hours in a car)
- Horse riding near the lake
- Easy hikes (there are stroller-friendly paths near the lake shore)
- Stay in a yurt camp (kids LOVED this – sleeping in a tent but with beds)
- Fly from Kanas (or return to Urumqi and fly – either way, fly)
- Old City (get lost, find snacks, it’s like a maze they can explore)
- Sunday Market (sensory overload in a good way)
- Short day trip to the Karakoram Highway (if kids are older and can handle altitude)
- Turpan (ancient ruins = surprisingly cool for kids who like “old stuff”)
- 伊犁 (if you’re there in spring/summer, the grasslands are epic)
- Taxkorgan (too high altitude, long drive, limited facilities)
- 和田 (interesting, but long travel days and not much “kid stuff”)
- Trying to do more than 2-3 places in 2 weeks (you’ll all be exhausted)
- Toilet paper (always)
- Hand sanitizer (the good stuff)
- Snacks (so many snacks)
- Any medications your kids need (pharmacies exist but language barrier is real)
- Entertainment for travel days (tablets, books, travel games)
- Family rooms or suites (you don’t want to share a tiny room)
- Places with English-speaking staff (rare, but they exist in Urumqi and Kashgar)
- Guesthouses over hotels (usually more character, and owners often have kids themselves)
- Breakfast: Buy bread, jam, and fruit from local markets. Picnic-style breakfasts were a hit with my kids.
- Lunch: Find a restaurant that has “safe” options (plain noodles, rice, bread). Order first, then let the kids be adventurous if they want.
- Dinner: This is the meal to be adventurous. By dinner, you’re settled, the kids are relaxed, and they might actually try that lamb kebab.
- “The bread! It was so good and we bought it from a man who smiled at me.”
- “The horses! I rode a horse and it was bumpy but fun.”
- “The yurt. Can we live in a yurt?”
- “The market in Kashgar. It was crazy and loud and I liked it.”
- “The lake that was so blue. I took a picture and it’s my wallpaper.”
- “The food was actually really good. When can we go back?”
- Riding horses near Kanas Lake (with a guide leading the horse – safe but exciting)
- Seeing yurts and learning how Kazakh families live
- The food markets in Kashgar (so much color, smells, and “can I try that?”)
- The vastness of it all – my 9-year-old said it made her feel “small in a good way”
- Stick to Urumqi + Heavenly Lake + maybe Kashgar. Don’t try to do the full loop.
- Bring a stroller or carrier for long walks.
- Pack more food than you think you need.
- Lower your expectations about “cultural experiences.” At this age, they’ll remember the horses and the bread, not the history.
- Heavenly Lake (cable car + boat ride = kid-friendly)
- Xinjiang Museum (actually good, and air-conditioned)
- Urumqi city center (bowl of laghman noodles, check)
- Fly from Urumqi (don’t drive – save the kids from 10 hours in a car)
- Horse riding near the lake
- Easy hikes (there are stroller-friendly paths near the lake shore)
- Stay in a yurt camp (kids LOVED this – sleeping in a tent but with beds)
- Fly from Kanas (or return to Urumqi and fly – either way, fly)
- Old City (get lost, find snacks, it’s like a maze they can explore)
- Sunday Market (sensory overload in a good way)
- Short day trip to the Karakoram Highway (if kids are older and can handle altitude)
- Turpan (ancient ruins = surprisingly cool for kids who like “old stuff”)
- 伊犁 (if you’re there in spring/summer, the grasslands are epic)
- Taxkorgan (too high altitude, long drive, limited facilities)
- 和田 (interesting, but long travel days and not much “kid stuff”)
- Trying to do more than 2-3 places in 2 weeks (you’ll all be exhausted)
- Toilet paper (always)
- Hand sanitizer (the good stuff)
- Snacks (so many snacks)
- Any medications your kids need (pharmacies exist but language barrier is real)
- Entertainment for travel days (tablets, books, travel games)
- Family rooms or suites (you don’t want to share a tiny room)
- Places with English-speaking staff (rare, but they exist in Urumqi and Kashgar)
- Guesthouses over hotels (usually more character, and owners often have kids themselves)
- Breakfast: Buy bread, jam, and fruit from local markets. Picnic-style breakfasts were a hit with my kids.
- Lunch: Find a restaurant that has “safe” options (plain noodles, rice, bread). Order first, then let the kids be adventurous if they want.
- Dinner: This is the meal to be adventurous. By dinner, you’re settled, the kids are relaxed, and they might actually try that lamb kebab.
- “The bread! It was so good and we bought it from a man who smiled at me.”
- “The horses! I rode a horse and it was bumpy but fun.”
- “The yurt. Can we live in a yurt?”
- “The market in Kashgar. It was crazy and loud and I liked it.”
- “The lake that was so blue. I took a picture and it’s my wallpaper.”
- “The food was actually really good. When can we go back?”
My 9-year-old (at the time):
Notice what they DIDN’T mention? The 5-hour drive. The squat toilets. The fact that we got lost in Urumqi for an hour.
Kids are resilient. They’ll adapt. And if you prepare properly, Xinjiang can be an incredible family adventure.
The Verdict
Would I recommend Xinjiang for families? Yes – with caveats.
If you’re an “adventure family” – the kind that camps, hikes, and doesn’t need luxury – Xinjiang is amazing. If your idea of a family trip is “Disney + all-inclusive resort where someone else cooks and cleans,” maybe skip it.
But if you want your kids to see a part of the world that most people never visit? To eat food that’s not chicken nuggets? To realize that the world is way bigger and more diverse than their hometown?
Xinjiang delivers. Just pack snacks, lower your expectations about bathrooms, and embrace the adventure.
—
Published on Xinjiang Travels – Real travel advice from a parent who’s been there (with kids in tow).
4. Altitude sickness is real.
If you’re going to Kanas (1,300m – not too bad) or Taxkorgan (3,700m – yikes), watch for symptoms. My 9-year-old got a headache at 3,000m and was miserable for a day. If your kids aren’t feeling well, don’t push it.
5. Embrace the slow days.
Some of our best days in Xinjiang were “do nothing” days. We’d sleep in, have a long breakfast, wander around whatever town we were in, let the kids play with local children (via the universal language of “here’s my toy car”), and call it a day.
The “must see” attractions are great. But the unplanned moments? Those are the ones your kids will remember.
What My Kids Actually Remember (Two Years Later)
I asked my kids what they remembered from our Xinjiang trip. Here’s what they said:
My 6-year-old (at the time):
My 9-year-old (at the time):
Notice what they DIDN’T mention? The 5-hour drive. The squat toilets. The fact that we got lost in Urumqi for an hour.
Kids are resilient. They’ll adapt. And if you prepare properly, Xinjiang can be an incredible family adventure.
The Verdict
Would I recommend Xinjiang for families? Yes – with caveats.
If you’re an “adventure family” – the kind that camps, hikes, and doesn’t need luxury – Xinjiang is amazing. If your idea of a family trip is “Disney + all-inclusive resort where someone else cooks and cleans,” maybe skip it.
But if you want your kids to see a part of the world that most people never visit? To eat food that’s not chicken nuggets? To realize that the world is way bigger and more diverse than their hometown?
Xinjiang delivers. Just pack snacks, lower your expectations about bathrooms, and embrace the adventure.
—
Published on Xinjiang Travels – Real travel advice from a parent who’s been there (with kids in tow).
3. The food strategy.
4. Altitude sickness is real.
If you’re going to Kanas (1,300m – not too bad) or Taxkorgan (3,700m – yikes), watch for symptoms. My 9-year-old got a headache at 3,000m and was miserable for a day. If your kids aren’t feeling well, don’t push it.
5. Embrace the slow days.
Some of our best days in Xinjiang were “do nothing” days. We’d sleep in, have a long breakfast, wander around whatever town we were in, let the kids play with local children (via the universal language of “here’s my toy car”), and call it a day.
The “must see” attractions are great. But the unplanned moments? Those are the ones your kids will remember.
What My Kids Actually Remember (Two Years Later)
I asked my kids what they remembered from our Xinjiang trip. Here’s what they said:
My 6-year-old (at the time):
My 9-year-old (at the time):
Notice what they DIDN’T mention? The 5-hour drive. The squat toilets. The fact that we got lost in Urumqi for an hour.
Kids are resilient. They’ll adapt. And if you prepare properly, Xinjiang can be an incredible family adventure.
The Verdict
Would I recommend Xinjiang for families? Yes – with caveats.
If you’re an “adventure family” – the kind that camps, hikes, and doesn’t need luxury – Xinjiang is amazing. If your idea of a family trip is “Disney + all-inclusive resort where someone else cooks and cleans,” maybe skip it.
But if you want your kids to see a part of the world that most people never visit? To eat food that’s not chicken nuggets? To realize that the world is way bigger and more diverse than their hometown?
Xinjiang delivers. Just pack snacks, lower your expectations about bathrooms, and embrace the adventure.
—
Published on Xinjiang Travels – Real travel advice from a parent who’s been there (with kids in tow).
2. Choose accommodation wisely.
Look for:
3. The food strategy.
4. Altitude sickness is real.
If you’re going to Kanas (1,300m – not too bad) or Taxkorgan (3,700m – yikes), watch for symptoms. My 9-year-old got a headache at 3,000m and was miserable for a day. If your kids aren’t feeling well, don’t push it.
5. Embrace the slow days.
Some of our best days in Xinjiang were “do nothing” days. We’d sleep in, have a long breakfast, wander around whatever town we were in, let the kids play with local children (via the universal language of “here’s my toy car”), and call it a day.
The “must see” attractions are great. But the unplanned moments? Those are the ones your kids will remember.
What My Kids Actually Remember (Two Years Later)
I asked my kids what they remembered from our Xinjiang trip. Here’s what they said:
My 6-year-old (at the time):
My 9-year-old (at the time):
Notice what they DIDN’T mention? The 5-hour drive. The squat toilets. The fact that we got lost in Urumqi for an hour.
Kids are resilient. They’ll adapt. And if you prepare properly, Xinjiang can be an incredible family adventure.
The Verdict
Would I recommend Xinjiang for families? Yes – with caveats.
If you’re an “adventure family” – the kind that camps, hikes, and doesn’t need luxury – Xinjiang is amazing. If your idea of a family trip is “Disney + all-inclusive resort where someone else cooks and cleans,” maybe skip it.
But if you want your kids to see a part of the world that most people never visit? To eat food that’s not chicken nuggets? To realize that the world is way bigger and more diverse than their hometown?
Xinjiang delivers. Just pack snacks, lower your expectations about bathrooms, and embrace the adventure.
—
Published on Xinjiang Travels – Real travel advice from a parent who’s been there (with kids in tow).
Practical Tips That’ll Save Your Sanity
1. Pack like you’re going to the moon.
Okay, not that extreme. But bring:
2. Choose accommodation wisely.
Look for:
3. The food strategy.
4. Altitude sickness is real.
If you’re going to Kanas (1,300m – not too bad) or Taxkorgan (3,700m – yikes), watch for symptoms. My 9-year-old got a headache at 3,000m and was miserable for a day. If your kids aren’t feeling well, don’t push it.
5. Embrace the slow days.
Some of our best days in Xinjiang were “do nothing” days. We’d sleep in, have a long breakfast, wander around whatever town we were in, let the kids play with local children (via the universal language of “here’s my toy car”), and call it a day.
The “must see” attractions are great. But the unplanned moments? Those are the ones your kids will remember.
What My Kids Actually Remember (Two Years Later)
I asked my kids what they remembered from our Xinjiang trip. Here’s what they said:
My 6-year-old (at the time):
My 9-year-old (at the time):
Notice what they DIDN’T mention? The 5-hour drive. The squat toilets. The fact that we got lost in Urumqi for an hour.
Kids are resilient. They’ll adapt. And if you prepare properly, Xinjiang can be an incredible family adventure.
The Verdict
Would I recommend Xinjiang for families? Yes – with caveats.
If you’re an “adventure family” – the kind that camps, hikes, and doesn’t need luxury – Xinjiang is amazing. If your idea of a family trip is “Disney + all-inclusive resort where someone else cooks and cleans,” maybe skip it.
But if you want your kids to see a part of the world that most people never visit? To eat food that’s not chicken nuggets? To realize that the world is way bigger and more diverse than their hometown?
Xinjiang delivers. Just pack snacks, lower your expectations about bathrooms, and embrace the adventure.
—
Published on Xinjiang Travels – Real travel advice from a parent who’s been there (with kids in tow).
What I DON’T recommend with kids:
Practical Tips That’ll Save Your Sanity
1. Pack like you’re going to the moon.
Okay, not that extreme. But bring:
2. Choose accommodation wisely.
Look for:
3. The food strategy.
4. Altitude sickness is real.
If you’re going to Kanas (1,300m – not too bad) or Taxkorgan (3,700m – yikes), watch for symptoms. My 9-year-old got a headache at 3,000m and was miserable for a day. If your kids aren’t feeling well, don’t push it.
5. Embrace the slow days.
Some of our best days in Xinjiang were “do nothing” days. We’d sleep in, have a long breakfast, wander around whatever town we were in, let the kids play with local children (via the universal language of “here’s my toy car”), and call it a day.
The “must see” attractions are great. But the unplanned moments? Those are the ones your kids will remember.
What My Kids Actually Remember (Two Years Later)
I asked my kids what they remembered from our Xinjiang trip. Here’s what they said:
My 6-year-old (at the time):
My 9-year-old (at the time):
Notice what they DIDN’T mention? The 5-hour drive. The squat toilets. The fact that we got lost in Urumqi for an hour.
Kids are resilient. They’ll adapt. And if you prepare properly, Xinjiang can be an incredible family adventure.
The Verdict
Would I recommend Xinjiang for families? Yes – with caveats.
If you’re an “adventure family” – the kind that camps, hikes, and doesn’t need luxury – Xinjiang is amazing. If your idea of a family trip is “Disney + all-inclusive resort where someone else cooks and cleans,” maybe skip it.
But if you want your kids to see a part of the world that most people never visit? To eat food that’s not chicken nuggets? To realize that the world is way bigger and more diverse than their hometown?
Xinjiang delivers. Just pack snacks, lower your expectations about bathrooms, and embrace the adventure.
—
Published on Xinjiang Travels – Real travel advice from a parent who’s been there (with kids in tow).
Option 2: The “We Want the Full Experience” Version (12-14 Days)
Same as above, but add:
What I DON’T recommend with kids:
Practical Tips That’ll Save Your Sanity
1. Pack like you’re going to the moon.
Okay, not that extreme. But bring:
2. Choose accommodation wisely.
Look for:
3. The food strategy.
4. Altitude sickness is real.
If you’re going to Kanas (1,300m – not too bad) or Taxkorgan (3,700m – yikes), watch for symptoms. My 9-year-old got a headache at 3,000m and was miserable for a day. If your kids aren’t feeling well, don’t push it.
5. Embrace the slow days.
Some of our best days in Xinjiang were “do nothing” days. We’d sleep in, have a long breakfast, wander around whatever town we were in, let the kids play with local children (via the universal language of “here’s my toy car”), and call it a day.
The “must see” attractions are great. But the unplanned moments? Those are the ones your kids will remember.
What My Kids Actually Remember (Two Years Later)
I asked my kids what they remembered from our Xinjiang trip. Here’s what they said:
My 6-year-old (at the time):
My 9-year-old (at the time):
Notice what they DIDN’T mention? The 5-hour drive. The squat toilets. The fact that we got lost in Urumqi for an hour.
Kids are resilient. They’ll adapt. And if you prepare properly, Xinjiang can be an incredible family adventure.
The Verdict
Would I recommend Xinjiang for families? Yes – with caveats.
If you’re an “adventure family” – the kind that camps, hikes, and doesn’t need luxury – Xinjiang is amazing. If your idea of a family trip is “Disney + all-inclusive resort where someone else cooks and cleans,” maybe skip it.
But if you want your kids to see a part of the world that most people never visit? To eat food that’s not chicken nuggets? To realize that the world is way bigger and more diverse than their hometown?
Xinjiang delivers. Just pack snacks, lower your expectations about bathrooms, and embrace the adventure.
—
Published on Xinjiang Travels – Real travel advice from a parent who’s been there (with kids in tow).
Days 7-10: Kashgar
Option 2: The “We Want the Full Experience” Version (12-14 Days)
Same as above, but add:
What I DON’T recommend with kids:
Practical Tips That’ll Save Your Sanity
1. Pack like you’re going to the moon.
Okay, not that extreme. But bring:
2. Choose accommodation wisely.
Look for:
3. The food strategy.
4. Altitude sickness is real.
If you’re going to Kanas (1,300m – not too bad) or Taxkorgan (3,700m – yikes), watch for symptoms. My 9-year-old got a headache at 3,000m and was miserable for a day. If your kids aren’t feeling well, don’t push it.
5. Embrace the slow days.
Some of our best days in Xinjiang were “do nothing” days. We’d sleep in, have a long breakfast, wander around whatever town we were in, let the kids play with local children (via the universal language of “here’s my toy car”), and call it a day.
The “must see” attractions are great. But the unplanned moments? Those are the ones your kids will remember.
What My Kids Actually Remember (Two Years Later)
I asked my kids what they remembered from our Xinjiang trip. Here’s what they said:
My 6-year-old (at the time):
My 9-year-old (at the time):
Notice what they DIDN’T mention? The 5-hour drive. The squat toilets. The fact that we got lost in Urumqi for an hour.
Kids are resilient. They’ll adapt. And if you prepare properly, Xinjiang can be an incredible family adventure.
The Verdict
Would I recommend Xinjiang for families? Yes – with caveats.
If you’re an “adventure family” – the kind that camps, hikes, and doesn’t need luxury – Xinjiang is amazing. If your idea of a family trip is “Disney + all-inclusive resort where someone else cooks and cleans,” maybe skip it.
But if you want your kids to see a part of the world that most people never visit? To eat food that’s not chicken nuggets? To realize that the world is way bigger and more diverse than their hometown?
Xinjiang delivers. Just pack snacks, lower your expectations about bathrooms, and embrace the adventure.
—
Published on Xinjiang Travels – Real travel advice from a parent who’s been there (with kids in tow).
Days 4-6: Kanas Lake Area
Days 7-10: Kashgar
Option 2: The “We Want the Full Experience” Version (12-14 Days)
Same as above, but add:
What I DON’T recommend with kids:
Practical Tips That’ll Save Your Sanity
1. Pack like you’re going to the moon.
Okay, not that extreme. But bring:
2. Choose accommodation wisely.
Look for:
3. The food strategy.
4. Altitude sickness is real.
If you’re going to Kanas (1,300m – not too bad) or Taxkorgan (3,700m – yikes), watch for symptoms. My 9-year-old got a headache at 3,000m and was miserable for a day. If your kids aren’t feeling well, don’t push it.
5. Embrace the slow days.
Some of our best days in Xinjiang were “do nothing” days. We’d sleep in, have a long breakfast, wander around whatever town we were in, let the kids play with local children (via the universal language of “here’s my toy car”), and call it a day.
The “must see” attractions are great. But the unplanned moments? Those are the ones your kids will remember.
What My Kids Actually Remember (Two Years Later)
I asked my kids what they remembered from our Xinjiang trip. Here’s what they said:
My 6-year-old (at the time):
My 9-year-old (at the time):
Notice what they DIDN’T mention? The 5-hour drive. The squat toilets. The fact that we got lost in Urumqi for an hour.
Kids are resilient. They’ll adapt. And if you prepare properly, Xinjiang can be an incredible family adventure.
The Verdict
Would I recommend Xinjiang for families? Yes – with caveats.
If you’re an “adventure family” – the kind that camps, hikes, and doesn’t need luxury – Xinjiang is amazing. If your idea of a family trip is “Disney + all-inclusive resort where someone else cooks and cleans,” maybe skip it.
But if you want your kids to see a part of the world that most people never visit? To eat food that’s not chicken nuggets? To realize that the world is way bigger and more diverse than their hometown?
Xinjiang delivers. Just pack snacks, lower your expectations about bathrooms, and embrace the adventure.
—
Published on Xinjiang Travels – Real travel advice from a parent who’s been there (with kids in tow).
Ages 7-12: This is the sweet spot.
Kids this age can handle the travel days, they’re curious about the culture, and they’re old enough to remember it. This is the age I’d recommend for a “full” Xinjiang trip (north + south).
Ages 13+: They’ll complain, but they’ll secretly love it.
Teenagers are going to teenager. But Xinjiang is legitimately cool in ways that might actually penetrate the angst. The landscapes are epic, the food is great, and it’s “different” enough to be interesting.
The Itinerary That Actually Works With Kids
After two trips with my kids, here’s what I’d recommend:
Option 1: The “Easy” Version (7-10 Days)
Days 1-3: Urumqi
Days 4-6: Kanas Lake Area
Days 7-10: Kashgar
Option 2: The “We Want the Full Experience” Version (12-14 Days)
Same as above, but add:
What I DON’T recommend with kids:
Practical Tips That’ll Save Your Sanity
1. Pack like you’re going to the moon.
Okay, not that extreme. But bring:
2. Choose accommodation wisely.
Look for:
3. The food strategy.
4. Altitude sickness is real.
If you’re going to Kanas (1,300m – not too bad) or Taxkorgan (3,700m – yikes), watch for symptoms. My 9-year-old got a headache at 3,000m and was miserable for a day. If your kids aren’t feeling well, don’t push it.
5. Embrace the slow days.
Some of our best days in Xinjiang were “do nothing” days. We’d sleep in, have a long breakfast, wander around whatever town we were in, let the kids play with local children (via the universal language of “here’s my toy car”), and call it a day.
The “must see” attractions are great. But the unplanned moments? Those are the ones your kids will remember.
What My Kids Actually Remember (Two Years Later)
I asked my kids what they remembered from our Xinjiang trip. Here’s what they said:
My 6-year-old (at the time):
My 9-year-old (at the time):
Notice what they DIDN’T mention? The 5-hour drive. The squat toilets. The fact that we got lost in Urumqi for an hour.
Kids are resilient. They’ll adapt. And if you prepare properly, Xinjiang can be an incredible family adventure.
The Verdict
Would I recommend Xinjiang for families? Yes – with caveats.
If you’re an “adventure family” – the kind that camps, hikes, and doesn’t need luxury – Xinjiang is amazing. If your idea of a family trip is “Disney + all-inclusive resort where someone else cooks and cleans,” maybe skip it.
But if you want your kids to see a part of the world that most people never visit? To eat food that’s not chicken nuggets? To realize that the world is way bigger and more diverse than their hometown?
Xinjiang delivers. Just pack snacks, lower your expectations about bathrooms, and embrace the adventure.
—
Published on Xinjiang Travels – Real travel advice from a parent who’s been there (with kids in tow).
2. It’s educational without feeling like school.
History, geography, culture, religion, food – it’s all there, and it’s all real. My kids learned more about Silk Road history in three days in Kashgar than they did in a year of school.
3. The pace can be slow.
If you’re not trying to “see it all,” Xinjiang is actually great for a relaxed family trip. Stay in one place for a few days, explore slowly, let the kids make friends with local children (they will – kids are kids everywhere).
Age Recommendations (Be Honest With Yourself)
Not all ages are equal for a Xinjiang trip.
Ages 0-3: Hard pass.
The travel logistics, the bathrooms, the food, the altitude changes – it’s just not worth it. Wait a few years.
Ages 4-6: Doable, but you need to be strategic.
At this age, my tips are:
Ages 7-12: This is the sweet spot.
Kids this age can handle the travel days, they’re curious about the culture, and they’re old enough to remember it. This is the age I’d recommend for a “full” Xinjiang trip (north + south).
Ages 13+: They’ll complain, but they’ll secretly love it.
Teenagers are going to teenager. But Xinjiang is legitimately cool in ways that might actually penetrate the angst. The landscapes are epic, the food is great, and it’s “different” enough to be interesting.
The Itinerary That Actually Works With Kids
After two trips with my kids, here’s what I’d recommend:
Option 1: The “Easy” Version (7-10 Days)
Days 1-3: Urumqi
Days 4-6: Kanas Lake Area
Days 7-10: Kashgar
Option 2: The “We Want the Full Experience” Version (12-14 Days)
Same as above, but add:
What I DON’T recommend with kids:
Practical Tips That’ll Save Your Sanity
1. Pack like you’re going to the moon.
Okay, not that extreme. But bring:
2. Choose accommodation wisely.
Look for:
3. The food strategy.
4. Altitude sickness is real.
If you’re going to Kanas (1,300m – not too bad) or Taxkorgan (3,700m – yikes), watch for symptoms. My 9-year-old got a headache at 3,000m and was miserable for a day. If your kids aren’t feeling well, don’t push it.
5. Embrace the slow days.
Some of our best days in Xinjiang were “do nothing” days. We’d sleep in, have a long breakfast, wander around whatever town we were in, let the kids play with local children (via the universal language of “here’s my toy car”), and call it a day.
The “must see” attractions are great. But the unplanned moments? Those are the ones your kids will remember.
What My Kids Actually Remember (Two Years Later)
I asked my kids what they remembered from our Xinjiang trip. Here’s what they said:
My 6-year-old (at the time):
My 9-year-old (at the time):
Notice what they DIDN’T mention? The 5-hour drive. The squat toilets. The fact that we got lost in Urumqi for an hour.
Kids are resilient. They’ll adapt. And if you prepare properly, Xinjiang can be an incredible family adventure.
The Verdict
Would I recommend Xinjiang for families? Yes – with caveats.
If you’re an “adventure family” – the kind that camps, hikes, and doesn’t need luxury – Xinjiang is amazing. If your idea of a family trip is “Disney + all-inclusive resort where someone else cooks and cleans,” maybe skip it.
But if you want your kids to see a part of the world that most people never visit? To eat food that’s not chicken nuggets? To realize that the world is way bigger and more diverse than their hometown?
Xinjiang delivers. Just pack snacks, lower your expectations about bathrooms, and embrace the adventure.
—
Published on Xinjiang Travels – Real travel advice from a parent who’s been there (with kids in tow).
Xinjiang with Kids – Family-Friendly Guide
The Question I Get Asked Most
“You took your kids to Xinjiang? Are you crazy?”
I’ve heard some version of this question at least fifty times. Usually from people who’ve never been to Xinjiang, or who think it’s nothing but desert and “dangerous border areas.”
Here’s the thing: I’ve traveled through Xinjiang with my kids (ages 6 and 9 at the time), and not only did we survive – we had an incredible trip. Would I recommend it for every family? No. But if you’re the kind of family that likes adventure, your kids are reasonably adaptable, and you’re up for something different than “Disney + beach resort”? Xinjiang might surprise you.
Let me break down what actually works, what doesn’t, and how to keep everyone sane.
First: The Honest Challenges
I’m not going to sugarcoat this. Xinjiang with kids has some real challenges:
1. It’s remote. Like, really remote.
There were days where we drove 4-5 hours through landscape with zero civilization – no gas stations, no restaurants, no nothing. If your kid gets carsick or has a meltdown, you can’t just “pop into a café.” You need to be prepared.
2. The food situation.
Xinjiang cuisine is heavy on meat (lamb, beef), bread, and noodles. If your kids are picky eaters or have dietary restrictions, this could be tough. My 6-year-old basically ate nan bread and plain noodles for a week.
3. Bathrooms.
Public restrooms in Xinjiang range from “okay” to “why is there no toilet paper and why is it a squat toilet and WHY IS THERE NO SOAP?” If you have younger kids who need help in the bathroom, bring your own supplies and lower your expectations.
4. Language barriers.
Outside of Urumqi and tourist areas, English is non-existent. Even Mandarin can be hit-or-miss in some areas. If your kids need something and you’re not around to translate? It could be stressful.
That Said… Why It Can Be Amazing
Now for the good stuff. Because despite the challenges, Xinjiang was one of our most memorable family trips. Here’s why:
1. The “cool factor” is off the charts.
My kids still talk about:
2. It’s educational without feeling like school.
History, geography, culture, religion, food – it’s all there, and it’s all real. My kids learned more about Silk Road history in three days in Kashgar than they did in a year of school.
3. The pace can be slow.
If you’re not trying to “see it all,” Xinjiang is actually great for a relaxed family trip. Stay in one place for a few days, explore slowly, let the kids make friends with local children (they will – kids are kids everywhere).
Age Recommendations (Be Honest With Yourself)
Not all ages are equal for a Xinjiang trip.
Ages 0-3: Hard pass.
The travel logistics, the bathrooms, the food, the altitude changes – it’s just not worth it. Wait a few years.
Ages 4-6: Doable, but you need to be strategic.
At this age, my tips are:
Ages 7-12: This is the sweet spot.
Kids this age can handle the travel days, they’re curious about the culture, and they’re old enough to remember it. This is the age I’d recommend for a “full” Xinjiang trip (north + south).
Ages 13+: They’ll complain, but they’ll secretly love it.
Teenagers are going to teenager. But Xinjiang is legitimately cool in ways that might actually penetrate the angst. The landscapes are epic, the food is great, and it’s “different” enough to be interesting.
The Itinerary That Actually Works With Kids
After two trips with my kids, here’s what I’d recommend:
Option 1: The “Easy” Version (7-10 Days)
Days 1-3: Urumqi
Days 4-6: Kanas Lake Area
Days 7-10: Kashgar
Option 2: The “We Want the Full Experience” Version (12-14 Days)
Same as above, but add:
What I DON’T recommend with kids:
Practical Tips That’ll Save Your Sanity
1. Pack like you’re going to the moon.
Okay, not that extreme. But bring:
2. Choose accommodation wisely.
Look for:
3. The food strategy.
4. Altitude sickness is real.
If you’re going to Kanas (1,300m – not too bad) or Taxkorgan (3,700m – yikes), watch for symptoms. My 9-year-old got a headache at 3,000m and was miserable for a day. If your kids aren’t feeling well, don’t push it.
5. Embrace the slow days.
Some of our best days in Xinjiang were “do nothing” days. We’d sleep in, have a long breakfast, wander around whatever town we were in, let the kids play with local children (via the universal language of “here’s my toy car”), and call it a day.
The “must see” attractions are great. But the unplanned moments? Those are the ones your kids will remember.
What My Kids Actually Remember (Two Years Later)
I asked my kids what they remembered from our Xinjiang trip. Here’s what they said:
My 6-year-old (at the time):
My 9-year-old (at the time):
Notice what they DIDN’T mention? The 5-hour drive. The squat toilets. The fact that we got lost in Urumqi for an hour.
Kids are resilient. They’ll adapt. And if you prepare properly, Xinjiang can be an incredible family adventure.
The Verdict
Would I recommend Xinjiang for families? Yes – with caveats.
If you’re an “adventure family” – the kind that camps, hikes, and doesn’t need luxury – Xinjiang is amazing. If your idea of a family trip is “Disney + all-inclusive resort where someone else cooks and cleans,” maybe skip it.
But if you want your kids to see a part of the world that most people never visit? To eat food that’s not chicken nuggets? To realize that the world is way bigger and more diverse than their hometown?
Xinjiang delivers. Just pack snacks, lower your expectations about bathrooms, and embrace the adventure.
—
Published on Xinjiang Travels – Real travel advice from a parent who’s been there (with kids in tow).