"How to Get to Xinjiang – Flights, Trains & Overland Routes"

A valid Chinese visa (arranged *before* you enter China)
A Kyrgyz visa (easy, e-visa available)
A pre-arranged driver or tour on the Chinese side (you can’t just walk across and hail a DiDi)
A border permit (your tour company handles this)

My take: If you’re doing a “Modern Silk Road” overland trip from Europe/Central Asia to China, this is viable. If you’re a casual traveler who just wants to see Xinjiang… fly. Don’t make your life complicated.

The “Which Option for Me?” Decision Tree

If you’re coming from outside China and you want the simplest route:

→ Fly to Hong Kong, then connect to Urumqi. Hong Kong has the best international flight connections, and the Urumqi flight is daily and reliable.

If you’re already in China and you’re short on time:

→ Fly to Urumqi (or Kashgar, if you’re focusing on the south). Flights are frequent and relatively cheap if you book 2-3 weeks in advance.

If you love train travel and you have 2 weeks+ in China:

→ Take the high-speed train from Beijing to Urumqi. It’s 12-14 hours, but it’s comfortable, you’ll meet locals, and the scenery is great.

If you’re on a tight budget:

→ Fly to Urumqi from wherever is cheapest. Beijing and Shanghai often have sales (600-800 RMB if you book early). Once in Xinjiang, use buses and trains (not private cars) to get around.

If you’re doing a “Silk Road” overland trip:

→ Research the Irkeshtam Pass from Kyrgyzstan. It’s complicated, but it’s one of the few overland border crossings that sometimes works for foreigners.

Practical Tips (Learn from My Mistakes)

1. Book Flights Early (Especially for Peak Season)

Xinjiang is huge for domestic tourism, especially in July-August and during the October 1-7 National Day holiday. Flights book out, and prices triple.

My mistake: I booked my Urumqi/Kashgar flight 3 days before departure in September. It was 1500 RMB for a 1.5-hour flight. If I’d booked 3 weeks earlier? Probably 600-800 RMB.

2. The Urumqi Airport is… Big

Like, really big. The walk from the international terminal to the domestic terminal is 15-20 minutes. If you have a connecting flight, leave extra time.

3. SIM Cards and Internet

When you land in Urumqi, get a Chinese SIM card immediately. You’ll need it for:

DiDi (Chinese Uber) – essential for getting around cities
Alipay/WeChat Pay – cash is still used, but digital payments are way more common
Maps.me or Baidu Maps – Google Maps doesn’t work reliably in Xinjiang
Translation apps

You can get a SIM at Urumqi airport (there’s a China Mobile booth in arrivals). Bring your passport.

4. The “Do I Need a Visa?” Question

Yes. Xinjiang is part of China, so you need a valid Chinese visa.

For most travelers: Apply for an L (tourist) visa at a Chinese consulate in your home country. Processing time: 4-10 business days. Cost: varies by country, usually $30-140.

Don’t apply for a visa in China – that’s not how it works. You need to arrange it before you enter.

Costs (Real Numbers from My Trips)

| Route | Cost (RMB) | Cost (USD, Rough) |

|——–|—————|———————-|

| Flight: Beijing→Urumqi (economy) | 800-1800 | $110-250 |

| Flight: Urumqi→Kashgar | 600-1500 | $80-200 |

| Train: Beijing→Urumqi (hard sleeper) | 1200-1500 | $160-200 |

| Train: Urumqi→Kashgar (hard sleeper) | 450-550 | $60-75 |

| SIM card (China Mobile, 30 days) | 100-200 | $14-28 |

| Airport→Urumqi city center (DiDi) | 30-50 | $4-7 |

—

Still have questions about getting to Xinjiang? Leave a comment below or contact me through the contact form. I do my best to reply to every inquiry from fellow travelers.

And once you are in Xinjiang, check out these guides for getting around:

[Xinjiang Travel Costs & Budget Guide](/xinjiang-travel-costs-budget-guide-2026/)
[7-Day Xinjiang Itinerary – The Classic First-Time Route](/7-day-xinjiang-itinerary-the-classic-first-time-route-2026/)
[Best Time to Visit Xinjiang – Month-by-Month Breakdown](/best-time-to-visit-xinjiang/)

Kyrgyzstan (via the Irkeshtam or Torugart passes)
Kazakhstan (via Khorgos)
Pakistan (via the Khunjerab Pass – but this has been closed for years)
Mongolia (via the Bichigt Zeeg border, but… good luck)

The reality: Most of these crossings are closed to independent travelers. You need special permits, you need to be on a tour, and even then, it’s complicated.

The one that sometimes works: Entering Xinjiang from Kyrgyzstan via the Irkeshtam Pass. You need:

A valid Chinese visa (arranged *before* you enter China)
A Kyrgyz visa (easy, e-visa available)
A pre-arranged driver or tour on the Chinese side (you can’t just walk across and hail a DiDi)
A border permit (your tour company handles this)

The “Which Option for Me?” Decision Tree

If you’re coming from outside China and you want the simplest route:

→ Fly to Hong Kong, then connect to Urumqi. Hong Kong has the best international flight connections, and the Urumqi flight is daily and reliable.

If you’re already in China and you’re short on time:

→ Fly to Urumqi (or Kashgar, if you’re focusing on the south). Flights are frequent and relatively cheap if you book 2-3 weeks in advance.

If you love train travel and you have 2 weeks+ in China:

→ Take the high-speed train from Beijing to Urumqi. It’s 12-14 hours, but it’s comfortable, you’ll meet locals, and the scenery is great.

If you’re on a tight budget:

→ Fly to Urumqi from wherever is cheapest. Beijing and Shanghai often have sales (600-800 RMB if you book early). Once in Xinjiang, use buses and trains (not private cars) to get around.

If you’re doing a “Silk Road” overland trip:

→ Research the Irkeshtam Pass from Kyrgyzstan. It’s complicated, but it’s one of the few overland border crossings that sometimes works for foreigners.

Practical Tips (Learn from My Mistakes)

1. Book Flights Early (Especially for Peak Season)

Xinjiang is huge for domestic tourism, especially in July-August and during the October 1-7 National Day holiday. Flights book out, and prices triple.

My mistake: I booked my Urumqi/Kashgar flight 3 days before departure in September. It was 1500 RMB for a 1.5-hour flight. If I’d booked 3 weeks earlier? Probably 600-800 RMB.

2. The Urumqi Airport is… Big

Like, really big. The walk from the international terminal to the domestic terminal is 15-20 minutes. If you have a connecting flight, leave extra time.

3. SIM Cards and Internet

When you land in Urumqi, get a Chinese SIM card immediately. You’ll need it for:

DiDi (Chinese Uber) – essential for getting around cities
Alipay/WeChat Pay – cash is still used, but digital payments are way more common
Maps.me or Baidu Maps – Google Maps doesn’t work reliably in Xinjiang
Translation apps

You can get a SIM at Urumqi airport (there’s a China Mobile booth in arrivals). Bring your passport.

4. The “Do I Need a Visa?” Question

Yes. Xinjiang is part of China, so you need a valid Chinese visa.

For most travelers: Apply for an L (tourist) visa at a Chinese consulate in your home country. Processing time: 4-10 business days. Cost: varies by country, usually $30-140.

Don’t apply for a visa in China – that’s not how it works. You need to arrange it before you enter.

Costs (Real Numbers from My Trips)

| Route | Cost (RMB) | Cost (USD, Rough) |

|——–|—————|———————-|

| Flight: Beijing→Urumqi (economy) | 800-1800 | $110-250 |

| Flight: Urumqi→Kashgar | 600-1500 | $80-200 |

| Train: Beijing→Urumqi (hard sleeper) | 1200-1500 | $160-200 |

| Train: Urumqi→Kashgar (hard sleeper) | 450-550 | $60-75 |

| SIM card (China Mobile, 30 days) | 100-200 | $14-28 |

| Airport→Urumqi city center (DiDi) | 30-50 | $4-7 |

—

Still have questions about getting to Xinjiang? Leave a comment below or contact me through the contact form. I do my best to reply to every inquiry from fellow travelers.

And once you are in Xinjiang, check out these guides for getting around:

[Xinjiang Travel Costs & Budget Guide](/xinjiang-travel-costs-budget-guide-2026/)
[7-Day Xinjiang Itinerary – The Classic First-Time Route](/7-day-xinjiang-itinerary-the-classic-first-time-route-2026/)
[Best Time to Visit Xinjiang – Month-by-Month Breakdown](/best-time-to-visit-xinjiang/)

Urumqi to Kanas: 1 hour, 600-1000 RMB (but… the airport is still 1.5 hours from Kanas Village by car)
Beijing/Kanas (charter, rare)

Worth it?: If you’re short on time and you must get to Kanas, yeah. But most people either take the train + bus or drive from Urumqi.

3. Hotan Airport (HTN) – For the Far South

Hotan is waaay in the southwest corner of Xinjiang, near the border with Pakistan. Most travelers skip it (it’s remote, even by Xinjiang standards), but if you’re doing a deep dive into the south, there are flights.

Flights: Urumqi to Hotan, 2 hours, 500-1200 RMB.

Trains to Xinjiang (The Scenic/Slow Way)

China’s high-speed rail network has expanded massively in the last 5 years, and Xinjiang is now connected to the national network.

The Main Route: Beijing/Urumqi (High-Speed)

Distance: ~3300 km

Time: 12-14 hours (high-speed)

Cost: Hard seat: 800-1000 RMB | Hard sleeper: 1200-1500 RMB | Soft sleeper: 1800-2200 RMB

My experience: I took the high-speed train from Beijing to Urumqi in 2023. It’s… it’s a train. Comfortable (especially soft sleeper – you get a private compartment with 4 bunks and a door), but 12 hours is still 12 hours.

Worth it?: If you love train travel, yeah. The scenery as you cross from central China into Xinjiang is spectacular – rolling hills, then desert, then the Tianshan mountains appearing in the distance. If you’re short on time, fly.

Urumqi/Kashgar (The New High-Speed Line)

This is the big one. The railway from Urumqi to Kashgar (1450 km) has been upgraded, and while it’s not “high-speed” the whole way (yet), it’s much faster than it used to be.

Time: 12-14 hours (overnight)

Cost: Hard sleeper: 450-550 RMB | Soft sleeper: 700-900 RMB

My advice: If you’re doing both northern and southern Xinjiang and you have the time, take the train. It’s an experience. If you’re short on time, fly Urumqi/Kashgar (1.5 hours, 800-1500 RMB).

Overland Routes (The Adventure Option)

Okay, this is for the hardcore travelers.

Xinjiang shares borders with 8 countries, and in theory, you could enter Xinjiang overland from:

Kyrgyzstan (via the Irkeshtam or Torugart passes)
Kazakhstan (via Khorgos)
Pakistan (via the Khunjerab Pass – but this has been closed for years)
Mongolia (via the Bichigt Zeeg border, but… good luck)

The reality: Most of these crossings are closed to independent travelers. You need special permits, you need to be on a tour, and even then, it’s complicated.

The one that sometimes works: Entering Xinjiang from Kyrgyzstan via the Irkeshtam Pass. You need:

A valid Chinese visa (arranged *before* you enter China)
A Kyrgyz visa (easy, e-visa available)
A pre-arranged driver or tour on the Chinese side (you can’t just walk across and hail a DiDi)
A border permit (your tour company handles this)

The “Which Option for Me?” Decision Tree

If you’re coming from outside China and you want the simplest route:

→ Fly to Hong Kong, then connect to Urumqi. Hong Kong has the best international flight connections, and the Urumqi flight is daily and reliable.

If you’re already in China and you’re short on time:

→ Fly to Urumqi (or Kashgar, if you’re focusing on the south). Flights are frequent and relatively cheap if you book 2-3 weeks in advance.

If you love train travel and you have 2 weeks+ in China:

→ Take the high-speed train from Beijing to Urumqi. It’s 12-14 hours, but it’s comfortable, you’ll meet locals, and the scenery is great.

If you’re on a tight budget:

→ Fly to Urumqi from wherever is cheapest. Beijing and Shanghai often have sales (600-800 RMB if you book early). Once in Xinjiang, use buses and trains (not private cars) to get around.

If you’re doing a “Silk Road” overland trip:

→ Research the Irkeshtam Pass from Kyrgyzstan. It’s complicated, but it’s one of the few overland border crossings that sometimes works for foreigners.

Practical Tips (Learn from My Mistakes)

1. Book Flights Early (Especially for Peak Season)

Xinjiang is huge for domestic tourism, especially in July-August and during the October 1-7 National Day holiday. Flights book out, and prices triple.

My mistake: I booked my Urumqi/Kashgar flight 3 days before departure in September. It was 1500 RMB for a 1.5-hour flight. If I’d booked 3 weeks earlier? Probably 600-800 RMB.

2. The Urumqi Airport is… Big

Like, really big. The walk from the international terminal to the domestic terminal is 15-20 minutes. If you have a connecting flight, leave extra time.

3. SIM Cards and Internet

When you land in Urumqi, get a Chinese SIM card immediately. You’ll need it for:

DiDi (Chinese Uber) – essential for getting around cities
Alipay/WeChat Pay – cash is still used, but digital payments are way more common
Maps.me or Baidu Maps – Google Maps doesn’t work reliably in Xinjiang
Translation apps

You can get a SIM at Urumqi airport (there’s a China Mobile booth in arrivals). Bring your passport.

4. The “Do I Need a Visa?” Question

Yes. Xinjiang is part of China, so you need a valid Chinese visa.

For most travelers: Apply for an L (tourist) visa at a Chinese consulate in your home country. Processing time: 4-10 business days. Cost: varies by country, usually $30-140.

Don’t apply for a visa in China – that’s not how it works. You need to arrange it before you enter.

Costs (Real Numbers from My Trips)

| Route | Cost (RMB) | Cost (USD, Rough) |

|——–|—————|———————-|

| Flight: Beijing→Urumqi (economy) | 800-1800 | $110-250 |

| Flight: Urumqi→Kashgar | 600-1500 | $80-200 |

| Train: Beijing→Urumqi (hard sleeper) | 1200-1500 | $160-200 |

| Train: Urumqi→Kashgar (hard sleeper) | 450-550 | $60-75 |

| SIM card (China Mobile, 30 days) | 100-200 | $14-28 |

| Airport→Urumqi city center (DiDi) | 30-50 | $4-7 |

—

Still have questions about getting to Xinjiang? Leave a comment below or contact me through the contact form. I do my best to reply to every inquiry from fellow travelers.

And once you are in Xinjiang, check out these guides for getting around:

[Xinjiang Travel Costs & Budget Guide](/xinjiang-travel-costs-budget-guide-2026/)
[7-Day Xinjiang Itinerary – The Classic First-Time Route](/7-day-xinjiang-itinerary-the-classic-first-time-route-2026/)
[Best Time to Visit Xinjiang – Month-by-Month Breakdown](/best-time-to-visit-xinjiang/)

Urumqi to Kashgar: 1.5 hours, 600-1500 RMB
Beijing/Kashgar (seasonal direct): 6-7 hours, 1500-3000 RMB
Istanbul/Kashgar (charter, seasonal): Check current schedules, this route opens and closes

My take: If you’re short on time and you know you want to focus on Kashgar/southern Xinjiang, fly direct to Kashgar. The overmight train from Urumqi is an experience, but it’ll cost you a day of travel.

2. Kanas Airport (KJI) – For the North (Seasonal)

This is a small airport near Kanas Lake that operates only in peak season (June-October).

Flights:

Urumqi to Kanas: 1 hour, 600-1000 RMB (but… the airport is still 1.5 hours from Kanas Village by car)
Beijing/Kanas (charter, rare)

Worth it?: If you’re short on time and you must get to Kanas, yeah. But most people either take the train + bus or drive from Urumqi.

3. Hotan Airport (HTN) – For the Far South

Flights: Urumqi to Hotan, 2 hours, 500-1200 RMB.

Trains to Xinjiang (The Scenic/Slow Way)

China’s high-speed rail network has expanded massively in the last 5 years, and Xinjiang is now connected to the national network.

The Main Route: Beijing/Urumqi (High-Speed)

Distance: ~3300 km

Time: 12-14 hours (high-speed)

Cost: Hard seat: 800-1000 RMB | Hard sleeper: 1200-1500 RMB | Soft sleeper: 1800-2200 RMB

Urumqi/Kashgar (The New High-Speed Line)

This is the big one. The railway from Urumqi to Kashgar (1450 km) has been upgraded, and while it’s not “high-speed” the whole way (yet), it’s much faster than it used to be.

Time: 12-14 hours (overnight)

Cost: Hard sleeper: 450-550 RMB | Soft sleeper: 700-900 RMB

Overland Routes (The Adventure Option)

Okay, this is for the hardcore travelers.

Xinjiang shares borders with 8 countries, and in theory, you could enter Xinjiang overland from:

Kyrgyzstan (via the Irkeshtam or Torugart passes)
Kazakhstan (via Khorgos)
Pakistan (via the Khunjerab Pass – but this has been closed for years)
Mongolia (via the Bichigt Zeeg border, but… good luck)

The reality: Most of these crossings are closed to independent travelers. You need special permits, you need to be on a tour, and even then, it’s complicated.

The one that sometimes works: Entering Xinjiang from Kyrgyzstan via the Irkeshtam Pass. You need:

A valid Chinese visa (arranged *before* you enter China)
A Kyrgyz visa (easy, e-visa available)
A pre-arranged driver or tour on the Chinese side (you can’t just walk across and hail a DiDi)
A border permit (your tour company handles this)

The “Which Option for Me?” Decision Tree

If you’re coming from outside China and you want the simplest route:

→ Fly to Hong Kong, then connect to Urumqi. Hong Kong has the best international flight connections, and the Urumqi flight is daily and reliable.

If you’re already in China and you’re short on time:

→ Fly to Urumqi (or Kashgar, if you’re focusing on the south). Flights are frequent and relatively cheap if you book 2-3 weeks in advance.

If you love train travel and you have 2 weeks+ in China:

→ Take the high-speed train from Beijing to Urumqi. It’s 12-14 hours, but it’s comfortable, you’ll meet locals, and the scenery is great.

If you’re on a tight budget:

→ Fly to Urumqi from wherever is cheapest. Beijing and Shanghai often have sales (600-800 RMB if you book early). Once in Xinjiang, use buses and trains (not private cars) to get around.

If you’re doing a “Silk Road” overland trip:

→ Research the Irkeshtam Pass from Kyrgyzstan. It’s complicated, but it’s one of the few overland border crossings that sometimes works for foreigners.

Practical Tips (Learn from My Mistakes)

1. Book Flights Early (Especially for Peak Season)

Xinjiang is huge for domestic tourism, especially in July-August and during the October 1-7 National Day holiday. Flights book out, and prices triple.

My mistake: I booked my Urumqi/Kashgar flight 3 days before departure in September. It was 1500 RMB for a 1.5-hour flight. If I’d booked 3 weeks earlier? Probably 600-800 RMB.

2. The Urumqi Airport is… Big

Like, really big. The walk from the international terminal to the domestic terminal is 15-20 minutes. If you have a connecting flight, leave extra time.

3. SIM Cards and Internet

When you land in Urumqi, get a Chinese SIM card immediately. You’ll need it for:

DiDi (Chinese Uber) – essential for getting around cities
Alipay/WeChat Pay – cash is still used, but digital payments are way more common
Maps.me or Baidu Maps – Google Maps doesn’t work reliably in Xinjiang
Translation apps

You can get a SIM at Urumqi airport (there’s a China Mobile booth in arrivals). Bring your passport.

4. The “Do I Need a Visa?” Question

Yes. Xinjiang is part of China, so you need a valid Chinese visa.

For most travelers: Apply for an L (tourist) visa at a Chinese consulate in your home country. Processing time: 4-10 business days. Cost: varies by country, usually $30-140.

Don’t apply for a visa in China – that’s not how it works. You need to arrange it before you enter.

Costs (Real Numbers from My Trips)

| Route | Cost (RMB) | Cost (USD, Rough) |

|——–|—————|———————-|

| Flight: Beijing→Urumqi (economy) | 800-1800 | $110-250 |

| Flight: Urumqi→Kashgar | 600-1500 | $80-200 |

| Train: Beijing→Urumqi (hard sleeper) | 1200-1500 | $160-200 |

| Train: Urumqi→Kashgar (hard sleeper) | 450-550 | $60-75 |

| SIM card (China Mobile, 30 days) | 100-200 | $14-28 |

| Airport→Urumqi city center (DiDi) | 30-50 | $4-7 |

—

Still have questions about getting to Xinjiang? Leave a comment below or contact me through the contact form. I do my best to reply to every inquiry from fellow travelers.

And once you are in Xinjiang, check out these guides for getting around:

[Xinjiang Travel Costs & Budget Guide](/xinjiang-travel-costs-budget-guide-2026/)
[7-Day Xinjiang Itinerary – The Classic First-Time Route](/7-day-xinjiang-itinerary-the-classic-first-time-route-2026/)
[Best Time to Visit Xinjiang – Month-by-Month Breakdown](/best-time-to-visit-xinjiang/)

New York → Istanbul (Turkish) → Urumqi
Los Angeles → Hong Kong (Cathay) → Urumqi
Toronto → Beijing (Air Canada) → Urumqi

Pro tip: If you have a layover in China (Beijing, Shanghai, etc.) and you need to recheck bags or go through immigration, leave at least 3 hours. Chinese airports are efficient, but the international-to-domestic transfer can be slow.

Alternative Airports in Xinjiang

Urumqi is the main hub, but there are other airports if your itinerary is focused on a specific region:

1. Kashgar Airport (KHG) – For the South

If you’re only doing southern Xinjiang (Kashgar, Taxkorgan, the Karakoram Highway), flying directly to Kashgar saves you the 24-hour train or 2-hour flight from Urumqi.

Flights:

Urumqi to Kashgar: 1.5 hours, 600-1500 RMB
Beijing/Kashgar (seasonal direct): 6-7 hours, 1500-3000 RMB
Istanbul/Kashgar (charter, seasonal): Check current schedules, this route opens and closes

2. Kanas Airport (KJI) – For the North (Seasonal)

This is a small airport near Kanas Lake that operates only in peak season (June-October).

Flights:

Urumqi to Kanas: 1 hour, 600-1000 RMB (but… the airport is still 1.5 hours from Kanas Village by car)
Beijing/Kanas (charter, rare)

Worth it?: If you’re short on time and you must get to Kanas, yeah. But most people either take the train + bus or drive from Urumqi.

3. Hotan Airport (HTN) – For the Far South

Flights: Urumqi to Hotan, 2 hours, 500-1200 RMB.

Trains to Xinjiang (The Scenic/Slow Way)

China’s high-speed rail network has expanded massively in the last 5 years, and Xinjiang is now connected to the national network.

The Main Route: Beijing/Urumqi (High-Speed)

Distance: ~3300 km

Time: 12-14 hours (high-speed)

Cost: Hard seat: 800-1000 RMB | Hard sleeper: 1200-1500 RMB | Soft sleeper: 1800-2200 RMB

Urumqi/Kashgar (The New High-Speed Line)

This is the big one. The railway from Urumqi to Kashgar (1450 km) has been upgraded, and while it’s not “high-speed” the whole way (yet), it’s much faster than it used to be.

Time: 12-14 hours (overnight)

Cost: Hard sleeper: 450-550 RMB | Soft sleeper: 700-900 RMB

Overland Routes (The Adventure Option)

Okay, this is for the hardcore travelers.

Xinjiang shares borders with 8 countries, and in theory, you could enter Xinjiang overland from:

Kyrgyzstan (via the Irkeshtam or Torugart passes)
Kazakhstan (via Khorgos)
Pakistan (via the Khunjerab Pass – but this has been closed for years)
Mongolia (via the Bichigt Zeeg border, but… good luck)

The reality: Most of these crossings are closed to independent travelers. You need special permits, you need to be on a tour, and even then, it’s complicated.

The one that sometimes works: Entering Xinjiang from Kyrgyzstan via the Irkeshtam Pass. You need:

A valid Chinese visa (arranged *before* you enter China)
A Kyrgyz visa (easy, e-visa available)
A pre-arranged driver or tour on the Chinese side (you can’t just walk across and hail a DiDi)
A border permit (your tour company handles this)

The “Which Option for Me?” Decision Tree

If you’re coming from outside China and you want the simplest route:

→ Fly to Hong Kong, then connect to Urumqi. Hong Kong has the best international flight connections, and the Urumqi flight is daily and reliable.

If you’re already in China and you’re short on time:

→ Fly to Urumqi (or Kashgar, if you’re focusing on the south). Flights are frequent and relatively cheap if you book 2-3 weeks in advance.

If you love train travel and you have 2 weeks+ in China:

→ Take the high-speed train from Beijing to Urumqi. It’s 12-14 hours, but it’s comfortable, you’ll meet locals, and the scenery is great.

If you’re on a tight budget:

→ Fly to Urumqi from wherever is cheapest. Beijing and Shanghai often have sales (600-800 RMB if you book early). Once in Xinjiang, use buses and trains (not private cars) to get around.

If you’re doing a “Silk Road” overland trip:

→ Research the Irkeshtam Pass from Kyrgyzstan. It’s complicated, but it’s one of the few overland border crossings that sometimes works for foreigners.

Practical Tips (Learn from My Mistakes)

1. Book Flights Early (Especially for Peak Season)

Xinjiang is huge for domestic tourism, especially in July-August and during the October 1-7 National Day holiday. Flights book out, and prices triple.

My mistake: I booked my Urumqi/Kashgar flight 3 days before departure in September. It was 1500 RMB for a 1.5-hour flight. If I’d booked 3 weeks earlier? Probably 600-800 RMB.

2. The Urumqi Airport is… Big

Like, really big. The walk from the international terminal to the domestic terminal is 15-20 minutes. If you have a connecting flight, leave extra time.

3. SIM Cards and Internet

When you land in Urumqi, get a Chinese SIM card immediately. You’ll need it for:

DiDi (Chinese Uber) – essential for getting around cities
Alipay/WeChat Pay – cash is still used, but digital payments are way more common
Maps.me or Baidu Maps – Google Maps doesn’t work reliably in Xinjiang
Translation apps

You can get a SIM at Urumqi airport (there’s a China Mobile booth in arrivals). Bring your passport.

4. The “Do I Need a Visa?” Question

Yes. Xinjiang is part of China, so you need a valid Chinese visa.

For most travelers: Apply for an L (tourist) visa at a Chinese consulate in your home country. Processing time: 4-10 business days. Cost: varies by country, usually $30-140.

Don’t apply for a visa in China – that’s not how it works. You need to arrange it before you enter.

Costs (Real Numbers from My Trips)

| Route | Cost (RMB) | Cost (USD, Rough) |

|——–|—————|———————-|

| Flight: Beijing→Urumqi (economy) | 800-1800 | $110-250 |

| Flight: Urumqi→Kashgar | 600-1500 | $80-200 |

| Train: Beijing→Urumqi (hard sleeper) | 1200-1500 | $160-200 |

| Train: Urumqi→Kashgar (hard sleeper) | 450-550 | $60-75 |

| SIM card (China Mobile, 30 days) | 100-200 | $14-28 |

| Airport→Urumqi city center (DiDi) | 30-50 | $4-7 |

—

Still have questions about getting to Xinjiang? Leave a comment below or contact me through the contact form. I do my best to reply to every inquiry from fellow travelers.

And once you are in Xinjiang, check out these guides for getting around:

[Xinjiang Travel Costs & Budget Guide](/xinjiang-travel-costs-budget-guide-2026/)
[7-Day Xinjiang Itinerary – The Classic First-Time Route](/7-day-xinjiang-itinerary-the-classic-first-time-route-2026/)
[Best Time to Visit Xinjiang – Month-by-Month Breakdown](/best-time-to-visit-xinjiang/)

Istanbul (Turkish Airlines, 2-3x/week) – This is the most useful one for European travelers
Moscow (Aeroflot, seasonal)
Almaty, Kazakhstan (Air Astana, 2-3x/week)
Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan (limited, seasonal)
Hong Kong (Cathay Dragon/others, daily) – This is the easiest option for many international travelers: fly to Hong Kong, then connect to Urumqi

If you’re coming from North America: You’re looking at 2 stops minimum. Example routing:

New York → Istanbul (Turkish) → Urumqi
Los Angeles → Hong Kong (Cathay) → Urumqi
Toronto → Beijing (Air Canada) → Urumqi

Alternative Airports in Xinjiang

Urumqi is the main hub, but there are other airports if your itinerary is focused on a specific region:

1. Kashgar Airport (KHG) – For the South

If you’re only doing southern Xinjiang (Kashgar, Taxkorgan, the Karakoram Highway), flying directly to Kashgar saves you the 24-hour train or 2-hour flight from Urumqi.

Flights:

Urumqi to Kashgar: 1.5 hours, 600-1500 RMB
Beijing/Kashgar (seasonal direct): 6-7 hours, 1500-3000 RMB
Istanbul/Kashgar (charter, seasonal): Check current schedules, this route opens and closes

2. Kanas Airport (KJI) – For the North (Seasonal)

This is a small airport near Kanas Lake that operates only in peak season (June-October).

Flights:

Urumqi to Kanas: 1 hour, 600-1000 RMB (but… the airport is still 1.5 hours from Kanas Village by car)
Beijing/Kanas (charter, rare)

Worth it?: If you’re short on time and you must get to Kanas, yeah. But most people either take the train + bus or drive from Urumqi.

3. Hotan Airport (HTN) – For the Far South

Flights: Urumqi to Hotan, 2 hours, 500-1200 RMB.

Trains to Xinjiang (The Scenic/Slow Way)

China’s high-speed rail network has expanded massively in the last 5 years, and Xinjiang is now connected to the national network.

The Main Route: Beijing/Urumqi (High-Speed)

Distance: ~3300 km

Time: 12-14 hours (high-speed)

Cost: Hard seat: 800-1000 RMB | Hard sleeper: 1200-1500 RMB | Soft sleeper: 1800-2200 RMB

Urumqi/Kashgar (The New High-Speed Line)

This is the big one. The railway from Urumqi to Kashgar (1450 km) has been upgraded, and while it’s not “high-speed” the whole way (yet), it’s much faster than it used to be.

Time: 12-14 hours (overnight)

Cost: Hard sleeper: 450-550 RMB | Soft sleeper: 700-900 RMB

Overland Routes (The Adventure Option)

Okay, this is for the hardcore travelers.

Xinjiang shares borders with 8 countries, and in theory, you could enter Xinjiang overland from:

Kyrgyzstan (via the Irkeshtam or Torugart passes)
Kazakhstan (via Khorgos)
Pakistan (via the Khunjerab Pass – but this has been closed for years)
Mongolia (via the Bichigt Zeeg border, but… good luck)

The reality: Most of these crossings are closed to independent travelers. You need special permits, you need to be on a tour, and even then, it’s complicated.

The one that sometimes works: Entering Xinjiang from Kyrgyzstan via the Irkeshtam Pass. You need:

A valid Chinese visa (arranged *before* you enter China)
A Kyrgyz visa (easy, e-visa available)
A pre-arranged driver or tour on the Chinese side (you can’t just walk across and hail a DiDi)
A border permit (your tour company handles this)

The “Which Option for Me?” Decision Tree

If you’re coming from outside China and you want the simplest route:

→ Fly to Hong Kong, then connect to Urumqi. Hong Kong has the best international flight connections, and the Urumqi flight is daily and reliable.

If you’re already in China and you’re short on time:

→ Fly to Urumqi (or Kashgar, if you’re focusing on the south). Flights are frequent and relatively cheap if you book 2-3 weeks in advance.

If you love train travel and you have 2 weeks+ in China:

→ Take the high-speed train from Beijing to Urumqi. It’s 12-14 hours, but it’s comfortable, you’ll meet locals, and the scenery is great.

If you’re on a tight budget:

→ Fly to Urumqi from wherever is cheapest. Beijing and Shanghai often have sales (600-800 RMB if you book early). Once in Xinjiang, use buses and trains (not private cars) to get around.

If you’re doing a “Silk Road” overland trip:

→ Research the Irkeshtam Pass from Kyrgyzstan. It’s complicated, but it’s one of the few overland border crossings that sometimes works for foreigners.

Practical Tips (Learn from My Mistakes)

1. Book Flights Early (Especially for Peak Season)

Xinjiang is huge for domestic tourism, especially in July-August and during the October 1-7 National Day holiday. Flights book out, and prices triple.

My mistake: I booked my Urumqi/Kashgar flight 3 days before departure in September. It was 1500 RMB for a 1.5-hour flight. If I’d booked 3 weeks earlier? Probably 600-800 RMB.

2. The Urumqi Airport is… Big

Like, really big. The walk from the international terminal to the domestic terminal is 15-20 minutes. If you have a connecting flight, leave extra time.

3. SIM Cards and Internet

When you land in Urumqi, get a Chinese SIM card immediately. You’ll need it for:

DiDi (Chinese Uber) – essential for getting around cities
Alipay/WeChat Pay – cash is still used, but digital payments are way more common
Maps.me or Baidu Maps – Google Maps doesn’t work reliably in Xinjiang
Translation apps

You can get a SIM at Urumqi airport (there’s a China Mobile booth in arrivals). Bring your passport.

4. The “Do I Need a Visa?” Question

Yes. Xinjiang is part of China, so you need a valid Chinese visa.

For most travelers: Apply for an L (tourist) visa at a Chinese consulate in your home country. Processing time: 4-10 business days. Cost: varies by country, usually $30-140.

Don’t apply for a visa in China – that’s not how it works. You need to arrange it before you enter.

Costs (Real Numbers from My Trips)

| Route | Cost (RMB) | Cost (USD, Rough) |

|——–|—————|———————-|

| Flight: Beijing→Urumqi (economy) | 800-1800 | $110-250 |

| Flight: Urumqi→Kashgar | 600-1500 | $80-200 |

| Train: Beijing→Urumqi (hard sleeper) | 1200-1500 | $160-200 |

| Train: Urumqi→Kashgar (hard sleeper) | 450-550 | $60-75 |

| SIM card (China Mobile, 30 days) | 100-200 | $14-28 |

| Airport→Urumqi city center (DiDi) | 30-50 | $4-7 |

—

Still have questions about getting to Xinjiang? Leave a comment below or contact me through the contact form. I do my best to reply to every inquiry from fellow travelers.

And once you are in Xinjiang, check out these guides for getting around:

[Xinjiang Travel Costs & Budget Guide](/xinjiang-travel-costs-budget-guide-2026/)
[7-Day Xinjiang Itinerary – The Classic First-Time Route](/7-day-xinjiang-itinerary-the-classic-first-time-route-2026/)
[Best Time to Visit Xinjiang – Month-by-Month Breakdown](/best-time-to-visit-xinjiang/)

Beijing: 4-5 hours, 800-1800 RMB (depending on season and how far in advance you book)
Shanghai: 5-6 hours (usually with a stop in Xian or Beijing), 1000-2000 RMB
Guangzhou/Shenzhen: 5-6 hours, 1200-2200 RMB
Chengdu: 3-4 hours, 600-1500 RMB
Xian: 3 hours, 500-1200 RMB

My advice: If you’re already in China, fly to Urumqi from Beijing, Shanghai, or Chengdu. The high-speed rail is also an option (see “Trains” below), but for most international travelers, flying is simpler.

International Flights to Urumqi

This is where it gets tricky. Urumqi is not a major international hub, so direct flights from outside China are limited.

Currently (as of 2026), Urumqi has direct flights from:

Istanbul (Turkish Airlines, 2-3x/week) – This is the most useful one for European travelers
Moscow (Aeroflot, seasonal)
Almaty, Kazakhstan (Air Astana, 2-3x/week)
Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan (limited, seasonal)
Hong Kong (Cathay Dragon/others, daily) – This is the easiest option for many international travelers: fly to Hong Kong, then connect to Urumqi

If you’re coming from North America: You’re looking at 2 stops minimum. Example routing:

New York → Istanbul (Turkish) → Urumqi
Los Angeles → Hong Kong (Cathay) → Urumqi
Toronto → Beijing (Air Canada) → Urumqi

Alternative Airports in Xinjiang

Urumqi is the main hub, but there are other airports if your itinerary is focused on a specific region:

1. Kashgar Airport (KHG) – For the South

If you’re only doing southern Xinjiang (Kashgar, Taxkorgan, the Karakoram Highway), flying directly to Kashgar saves you the 24-hour train or 2-hour flight from Urumqi.

Flights:

Urumqi to Kashgar: 1.5 hours, 600-1500 RMB
Beijing/Kashgar (seasonal direct): 6-7 hours, 1500-3000 RMB
Istanbul/Kashgar (charter, seasonal): Check current schedules, this route opens and closes

2. Kanas Airport (KJI) – For the North (Seasonal)

This is a small airport near Kanas Lake that operates only in peak season (June-October).

Flights:

Urumqi to Kanas: 1 hour, 600-1000 RMB (but… the airport is still 1.5 hours from Kanas Village by car)
Beijing/Kanas (charter, rare)

Worth it?: If you’re short on time and you must get to Kanas, yeah. But most people either take the train + bus or drive from Urumqi.

3. Hotan Airport (HTN) – For the Far South

Flights: Urumqi to Hotan, 2 hours, 500-1200 RMB.

Trains to Xinjiang (The Scenic/Slow Way)

China’s high-speed rail network has expanded massively in the last 5 years, and Xinjiang is now connected to the national network.

The Main Route: Beijing/Urumqi (High-Speed)

Distance: ~3300 km

Time: 12-14 hours (high-speed)

Cost: Hard seat: 800-1000 RMB | Hard sleeper: 1200-1500 RMB | Soft sleeper: 1800-2200 RMB

Urumqi/Kashgar (The New High-Speed Line)

This is the big one. The railway from Urumqi to Kashgar (1450 km) has been upgraded, and while it’s not “high-speed” the whole way (yet), it’s much faster than it used to be.

Time: 12-14 hours (overnight)

Cost: Hard sleeper: 450-550 RMB | Soft sleeper: 700-900 RMB

Overland Routes (The Adventure Option)

Okay, this is for the hardcore travelers.

Xinjiang shares borders with 8 countries, and in theory, you could enter Xinjiang overland from:

Kyrgyzstan (via the Irkeshtam or Torugart passes)
Kazakhstan (via Khorgos)
Pakistan (via the Khunjerab Pass – but this has been closed for years)
Mongolia (via the Bichigt Zeeg border, but… good luck)

The reality: Most of these crossings are closed to independent travelers. You need special permits, you need to be on a tour, and even then, it’s complicated.

The one that sometimes works: Entering Xinjiang from Kyrgyzstan via the Irkeshtam Pass. You need:

A valid Chinese visa (arranged *before* you enter China)
A Kyrgyz visa (easy, e-visa available)
A pre-arranged driver or tour on the Chinese side (you can’t just walk across and hail a DiDi)
A border permit (your tour company handles this)

The “Which Option for Me?” Decision Tree

If you’re coming from outside China and you want the simplest route:

→ Fly to Hong Kong, then connect to Urumqi. Hong Kong has the best international flight connections, and the Urumqi flight is daily and reliable.

If you’re already in China and you’re short on time:

→ Fly to Urumqi (or Kashgar, if you’re focusing on the south). Flights are frequent and relatively cheap if you book 2-3 weeks in advance.

If you love train travel and you have 2 weeks+ in China:

→ Take the high-speed train from Beijing to Urumqi. It’s 12-14 hours, but it’s comfortable, you’ll meet locals, and the scenery is great.

If you’re on a tight budget:

→ Fly to Urumqi from wherever is cheapest. Beijing and Shanghai often have sales (600-800 RMB if you book early). Once in Xinjiang, use buses and trains (not private cars) to get around.

If you’re doing a “Silk Road” overland trip:

→ Research the Irkeshtam Pass from Kyrgyzstan. It’s complicated, but it’s one of the few overland border crossings that sometimes works for foreigners.

Practical Tips (Learn from My Mistakes)

1. Book Flights Early (Especially for Peak Season)

Xinjiang is huge for domestic tourism, especially in July-August and during the October 1-7 National Day holiday. Flights book out, and prices triple.

My mistake: I booked my Urumqi/Kashgar flight 3 days before departure in September. It was 1500 RMB for a 1.5-hour flight. If I’d booked 3 weeks earlier? Probably 600-800 RMB.

2. The Urumqi Airport is… Big

Like, really big. The walk from the international terminal to the domestic terminal is 15-20 minutes. If you have a connecting flight, leave extra time.

3. SIM Cards and Internet

When you land in Urumqi, get a Chinese SIM card immediately. You’ll need it for:

DiDi (Chinese Uber) – essential for getting around cities
Alipay/WeChat Pay – cash is still used, but digital payments are way more common
Maps.me or Baidu Maps – Google Maps doesn’t work reliably in Xinjiang
Translation apps

You can get a SIM at Urumqi airport (there’s a China Mobile booth in arrivals). Bring your passport.

4. The “Do I Need a Visa?” Question

Yes. Xinjiang is part of China, so you need a valid Chinese visa.

For most travelers: Apply for an L (tourist) visa at a Chinese consulate in your home country. Processing time: 4-10 business days. Cost: varies by country, usually $30-140.

Don’t apply for a visa in China – that’s not how it works. You need to arrange it before you enter.

Costs (Real Numbers from My Trips)

| Route | Cost (RMB) | Cost (USD, Rough) |

|——–|—————|———————-|

| Flight: Beijing→Urumqi (economy) | 800-1800 | $110-250 |

| Flight: Urumqi→Kashgar | 600-1500 | $80-200 |

| Train: Beijing→Urumqi (hard sleeper) | 1200-1500 | $160-200 |

| Train: Urumqi→Kashgar (hard sleeper) | 450-550 | $60-75 |

| SIM card (China Mobile, 30 days) | 100-200 | $14-28 |

| Airport→Urumqi city center (DiDi) | 30-50 | $4-7 |

—

Still have questions about getting to Xinjiang? Leave a comment below or contact me through the contact form. I do my best to reply to every inquiry from fellow travelers.

And once you are in Xinjiang, check out these guides for getting around:

[Xinjiang Travel Costs & Budget Guide](/xinjiang-travel-costs-budget-guide-2026/)
[7-Day Xinjiang Itinerary – The Classic First-Time Route](/7-day-xinjiang-itinerary-the-classic-first-time-route-2026/)
[Best Time to Visit Xinjiang – Month-by-Month Breakdown](/best-time-to-visit-xinjiang/)

How to Get to Xinjiang – Flights, Trains & Overland Routes

Let’s start with the obvious: Xinjiang is big.

Like, really big. It’s 1.6 million km² – bigger than Iran, almost as big as Mongolia, and it would take you 20+ hours of non-stop driving to cross from east to west.

So getting to Xinjiang is one thing. Getting around Xinjiang? That’s a whole different challenge (and I’ve written a separate guide for that).

But for now, let’s focus on the “how do I actually get there?” question – because if you’re flying from Europe or North America, Xinjiang is… it’s not exactly next door.

Here’s the real talk about getting to Xinjiang – the routes that actually work, the costs, the logisitics, and the mistakes I made so you don’t have to.

Flying to Xinjiang (The Standard Way)

The Main Gateway: Urumqi Diwopu International Airport (URC)

This is the main airport in Xinjiang, and unless you’re doing some specialized overland route, this is where you’re landing.

Flights from inside China:

Beijing: 4-5 hours, 800-1800 RMB (depending on season and how far in advance you book)
Shanghai: 5-6 hours (usually with a stop in Xian or Beijing), 1000-2000 RMB
Guangzhou/Shenzhen: 5-6 hours, 1200-2200 RMB
Chengdu: 3-4 hours, 600-1500 RMB
Xian: 3 hours, 500-1200 RMB

International Flights to Urumqi

This is where it gets tricky. Urumqi is not a major international hub, so direct flights from outside China are limited.

Currently (as of 2026), Urumqi has direct flights from:

Istanbul (Turkish Airlines, 2-3x/week) – This is the most useful one for European travelers
Moscow (Aeroflot, seasonal)
Almaty, Kazakhstan (Air Astana, 2-3x/week)
Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan (limited, seasonal)
Hong Kong (Cathay Dragon/others, daily) – This is the easiest option for many international travelers: fly to Hong Kong, then connect to Urumqi

If you’re coming from North America: You’re looking at 2 stops minimum. Example routing:

New York → Istanbul (Turkish) → Urumqi
Los Angeles → Hong Kong (Cathay) → Urumqi
Toronto → Beijing (Air Canada) → Urumqi

Alternative Airports in Xinjiang

Urumqi is the main hub, but there are other airports if your itinerary is focused on a specific region:

1. Kashgar Airport (KHG) – For the South

If you’re only doing southern Xinjiang (Kashgar, Taxkorgan, the Karakoram Highway), flying directly to Kashgar saves you the 24-hour train or 2-hour flight from Urumqi.

Flights:

Urumqi to Kashgar: 1.5 hours, 600-1500 RMB
Beijing/Kashgar (seasonal direct): 6-7 hours, 1500-3000 RMB
Istanbul/Kashgar (charter, seasonal): Check current schedules, this route opens and closes

2. Kanas Airport (KJI) – For the North (Seasonal)

This is a small airport near Kanas Lake that operates only in peak season (June-October).

Flights:

Urumqi to Kanas: 1 hour, 600-1000 RMB (but… the airport is still 1.5 hours from Kanas Village by car)
Beijing/Kanas (charter, rare)

Worth it?: If you’re short on time and you must get to Kanas, yeah. But most people either take the train + bus or drive from Urumqi.

3. Hotan Airport (HTN) – For the Far South

Flights: Urumqi to Hotan, 2 hours, 500-1200 RMB.

Trains to Xinjiang (The Scenic/Slow Way)

China’s high-speed rail network has expanded massively in the last 5 years, and Xinjiang is now connected to the national network.

The Main Route: Beijing/Urumqi (High-Speed)

Distance: ~3300 km

Time: 12-14 hours (high-speed)

Cost: Hard seat: 800-1000 RMB | Hard sleeper: 1200-1500 RMB | Soft sleeper: 1800-2200 RMB

Urumqi/Kashgar (The New High-Speed Line)

This is the big one. The railway from Urumqi to Kashgar (1450 km) has been upgraded, and while it’s not “high-speed” the whole way (yet), it’s much faster than it used to be.

Time: 12-14 hours (overnight)

Cost: Hard sleeper: 450-550 RMB | Soft sleeper: 700-900 RMB

Overland Routes (The Adventure Option)

Okay, this is for the hardcore travelers.

Xinjiang shares borders with 8 countries, and in theory, you could enter Xinjiang overland from:

Kyrgyzstan (via the Irkeshtam or Torugart passes)
Kazakhstan (via Khorgos)
Pakistan (via the Khunjerab Pass – but this has been closed for years)
Mongolia (via the Bichigt Zeeg border, but… good luck)

The reality: Most of these crossings are closed to independent travelers. You need special permits, you need to be on a tour, and even then, it’s complicated.

The one that sometimes works: Entering Xinjiang from Kyrgyzstan via the Irkeshtam Pass. You need:

A valid Chinese visa (arranged *before* you enter China)
A Kyrgyz visa (easy, e-visa available)
A pre-arranged driver or tour on the Chinese side (you can’t just walk across and hail a DiDi)
A border permit (your tour company handles this)

The “Which Option for Me?” Decision Tree

If you’re coming from outside China and you want the simplest route:

→ Fly to Hong Kong, then connect to Urumqi. Hong Kong has the best international flight connections, and the Urumqi flight is daily and reliable.

If you’re already in China and you’re short on time:

→ Fly to Urumqi (or Kashgar, if you’re focusing on the south). Flights are frequent and relatively cheap if you book 2-3 weeks in advance.

If you love train travel and you have 2 weeks+ in China:

→ Take the high-speed train from Beijing to Urumqi. It’s 12-14 hours, but it’s comfortable, you’ll meet locals, and the scenery is great.

If you’re on a tight budget:

→ Fly to Urumqi from wherever is cheapest. Beijing and Shanghai often have sales (600-800 RMB if you book early). Once in Xinjiang, use buses and trains (not private cars) to get around.

If you’re doing a “Silk Road” overland trip:

→ Research the Irkeshtam Pass from Kyrgyzstan. It’s complicated, but it’s one of the few overland border crossings that sometimes works for foreigners.

Practical Tips (Learn from My Mistakes)

1. Book Flights Early (Especially for Peak Season)

Xinjiang is huge for domestic tourism, especially in July-August and during the October 1-7 National Day holiday. Flights book out, and prices triple.

My mistake: I booked my Urumqi/Kashgar flight 3 days before departure in September. It was 1500 RMB for a 1.5-hour flight. If I’d booked 3 weeks earlier? Probably 600-800 RMB.

2. The Urumqi Airport is… Big

Like, really big. The walk from the international terminal to the domestic terminal is 15-20 minutes. If you have a connecting flight, leave extra time.

3. SIM Cards and Internet

When you land in Urumqi, get a Chinese SIM card immediately. You’ll need it for:

DiDi (Chinese Uber) – essential for getting around cities
Alipay/WeChat Pay – cash is still used, but digital payments are way more common
Maps.me or Baidu Maps – Google Maps doesn’t work reliably in Xinjiang
Translation apps

You can get a SIM at Urumqi airport (there’s a China Mobile booth in arrivals). Bring your passport.

4. The “Do I Need a Visa?” Question

Yes. Xinjiang is part of China, so you need a valid Chinese visa.

For most travelers: Apply for an L (tourist) visa at a Chinese consulate in your home country. Processing time: 4-10 business days. Cost: varies by country, usually $30-140.

Don’t apply for a visa in China – that’s not how it works. You need to arrange it before you enter.

Costs (Real Numbers from My Trips)

| Route | Cost (RMB) | Cost (USD, Rough) |

|——–|—————|———————-|

| Flight: Beijing→Urumqi (economy) | 800-1800 | $110-250 |

| Flight: Urumqi→Kashgar | 600-1500 | $80-200 |

| Train: Beijing→Urumqi (hard sleeper) | 1200-1500 | $160-200 |

| Train: Urumqi→Kashgar (hard sleeper) | 450-550 | $60-75 |

| SIM card (China Mobile, 30 days) | 100-200 | $14-28 |

| Airport→Urumqi city center (DiDi) | 30-50 | $4-7 |

—

Still have questions about getting to Xinjiang? Leave a comment below or contact me through the contact form. I do my best to reply to every inquiry from fellow travelers.

And once you are in Xinjiang, check out these guides for getting around:

[Xinjiang Travel Costs & Budget Guide](/xinjiang-travel-costs-budget-guide-2026/)
[7-Day Xinjiang Itinerary – The Classic First-Time Route](/7-day-xinjiang-itinerary-the-classic-first-time-route-2026/)
[Best Time to Visit Xinjiang – Month-by-Month Breakdown](/best-time-to-visit-xinjiang/)