“Is Xinjiang safe?” is the #1 question I get from travelers planning their first trip. The short answer: yes, Xinjiang is safe for tourists. But there’s more to the story.
I’ve traveled in Xinjiang multiple times across different seasons and regions. This guide gives you the honest, practical picture – not the headlines, not the hype, just what you actually need to know.
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The Short Answer
For tourists: Xinjiang is safe. Crime rates are low, violent crime against foreigners is extremely rare, and the local people are generally welcoming to visitors.
The context you need to know: Xinjiang has a significant security presence. There are checkpoints, bag scans, and ID checks – especially in the south (Kashgar area). For tourists, this is mostly unobtrusive. It feels similar to airport security, but in daily life.
My take: If you’re comfortable with normal big-city precautions (watching your bag, not walking alone in sketchy areas at 3 AM), you’ll be fine in Xinjiang.
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Security Checks: What to Expect
You’ll encounter security checks in Xinjiang. Here’s what they look like:
At Airports and Train Stations
– Standard security (similar to anywhere in the world)
– Arrive 1.5-2 hours early for domestic flights (lines can be long)
On the Road
– Random checkpoints on highways (especially in southern Xinjiang)
– You’ll be asked to show your passport
– Bags might be scanned
– This is routine. Don’t worry. Just have your passport handy.
In Cities
– Some hotels, shopping malls, and scenic areas have bag scans at the entrance
– Again, routine. Just put your bag on the belt and walk through.
In the Old City (Kashgar)
– More security presence
– Police stations are visible
– As a tourist, you’re unlikely to have any issues. The security is focused on local security, not tourists.
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Practical Safety Tips
1. Carry Your Passport
You need your passport for:
– Hotel check-in (they scan it)
– Some scenic area entries
– Random security checks
Tip: Carry a photocopy or photo of your passport as backup. But always have the original with you.
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2. Watch Your Belongings (Standard Precautions)
Xinjiang isn’t a high-crime destination, but standard precautions apply:
– Don’t leave bags unattended
– Use hotel safes for valuables
– Be alert in crowded markets (pickpockets exist, as in any tourist area)
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3. Night Travel
– Cities: Generally safe to walk at night. Kashgar Old City is beautiful (and safe) after dark.
– Remote areas: Don’t drive or hike alone at night. Wildlife (wolves, bears) is rare but possible in remote mountain areas.
– Desert areas: Don’t venture into the desert alone, especially at night. You can get lost very quickly.
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4. Altitude Sickness
Some areas of Xinjiang are at altitude:
– Kanas Lake: 1,374m – usually fine for most people
– Sayram Lake: 2,073m – some people feel mild symptoms
– Tianchi (Heavenly Lake): 1,907m – usually fine
– Karakoram Highway (Pakistan border): 3,000m+ – altitude sickness possible
Symptoms: Headache, nausea, dizziness, trouble sleeping.
Prevention: Ascend gradually, stay hydrated, avoid alcohol for the first 24 hours at altitude.
Treatment: Descend if symptoms are severe. Mild symptoms: rest, water, over-the-counter pain relievers.
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5. Food and Water Safety
– Tap water: Don’t drink it. Bottled water is cheap (¥2-3).
– Street food: Generally safe if it’s cooked in front of you. Use your judgment.
– Raw vegetables: In budget restaurants, they might be washed in tap water. In mid-range and high-end places, it’s usually fine. When in doubt, stick to cooked food.
– Carry stomach medicine. Just in case.
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6. Road Safety
Driving in Xinjiang:
– Roads are good. Highways are excellent.
– Distances are long. Don’t try to drive 12 hours in one day. Split it over two days.
– Speed cameras are everywhere. Obey the speed limits.
– Mountain roads: Can be winding and narrow. If you get carsick, bring medicine.
– If you hire a driver: Make sure they’re not driving drunk or overly tired. It’s okay to ask them to slow down or take a break.
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Scams and Tourist Traps (How to Avoid Them)
Xinjiang has fewer scams targeting tourists than some other parts of China, but they exist.
The “Jade Scam”
You’ll be offered jade in markets and by street vendors. Some of it is real; much of it is fake.
– How to avoid: Only buy jade from reputable shops. If a “bargain” seems too good to be true, it is.
– What to pay: Small jade pendants: ¥200-2,000. Large pieces: thousands to tens of thousands. If someone offers you a “museum-quality” jade piece for ¥500, walk away.
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The “Carpet Scam”
Beautiful handmade carpets are sold in Kashgar and Hotan. Some are machine-made and passed off as handmade.
– How to avoid: Buy from established shops with good reviews. Ask if the carpet is handmade or machine-made.
– What to pay: Small handmade carpet: ¥1,000-5,000. Machine-made: ¥300-800.
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Overpriced Tours
Some tour agencies in Kashgar Old City offer overpriced day trips.
– How to avoid: Compare prices. A day trip to Taxkorgan from Kashgar should cost ¥400-800 per person (group tour). If someone quotes ¥2,000, keep looking.
– Better option: Arrange transport through your hotel or a reputable agency.
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Fake “Student” Guides
In Kashgar Old City, someone might approach you offering to “show you around” for a fee, claiming to be a student practicing English.
– The reality: They might lead you to shops where they get a commission.
– What to do: Politely decline. If you want a guide, hire one through a reputable agency or your hotel.
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Cultural Sensitivity and Respect
Xinjiang is home to many ethnic groups, each with their own customs. Being respectful makes your trip better and avoids awkward situations.
In Mosques and Religious Sites
– Dress modestly. Cover shoulders and knees. Women should carry a scarf to cover their hair (some mosques require it).
– Remove shoes before entering prayer areas.
– Don’t photograph people praying without asking.
– During prayer times: Some mosques are closed to tourists. Check visiting hours.
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In Kazakh and Kyrgyz Yurt Stays
– Ask before taking photos of people, especially women and children.
– Don’t walk in front of someone praying (if you see someone praying, give them space).
– Accept offered tea or food (it’s polite). You can take a small portion if you’re not hungry.
– Don’t bring pork or alcohol into a yurt (these are haram in Islamic culture, which many Kazakh and Kyrgyz families follow).
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Photography Etiquette
– Ask before photographing people. A smile and a gesture go a long way.
– Some people will say no. Respect that.
– Military and police: Don’t photograph them or military installations. Your camera might be confiscated.
– In markets: Photographing the spices and goods is fine. Photographing people requires asking.
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Solo Female Travel in Xinjiang
Is Xinjiang safe for solo female travelers? Generally, yes. But standard precautions apply.
– Harassment: Rare, but catcalling or unwanted attention can happen (as in any part of the world). Dress modestly to avoid attention.
– Accommodation: Stick to reputable hotels or well-reviewed guesthouses.
– Transport: Avoid taking unlicensed taxis alone at night. Use DiDi (ride-hailing app) or have your hotel call a taxi.
– Trust your instincts. If a situation feels off, remove yourself from it.
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Health and Medical Care
Medical Facilities
– Ürümqi: Good hospitals, some with English-speaking staff.
– Kashgar: Decent hospitals, but for serious issues, you might need to go to Ürümqi.
– Remote areas: Basic clinics only. For serious medical issues, evacuate to a city.
Travel Insurance
Get travel insurance. Make sure it covers:
– Medical evacuation (just in case)
– Trip cancellation
– Lost luggage
Pharmacies
Pharmacies are widely available in cities. Many medications available over-the-counter in Western countries require a prescription in China. Bring your prescription medications with you.
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Emergency Contacts
| Service | Number |
|———|——–|
| Police | 110 |
| Ambulance | 120 |
| Fire | 119 |
| Your country’s embassy | Check before traveling |
Note: Emergency operators might not speak English. Have your hotel’s phone number and address handy. They can help translate.
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FAQ: Safety in Xinjiang
Q: Is it safe to travel independently (without a tour)?
A: Yes. Many travelers do it. You need to be more self-sufficient (translation apps, navigation), but it’s safe.
Q: Can I use Western GPS / Google Maps?
A: Google Maps doesn’t work well in China. Use Baidu Maps (Chinese, but accurate) or Gaode Maps. Or ask your hotel to write directions in Chinese for taxi drivers.
Q: Is the water safe to drink?
A: No. Drink bottled water.
Q: Are there any areas I should avoid?
A: Tourist areas are all safe. Some border areas require permits – but you can’t enter without one, so you don’t need to worry about accidentally wandering into a restricted zone.
Q: What if I get sick?
A: For minor issues, go to a pharmacy. For more serious issues, go to a hospital in the nearest city. Have travel insurance.
Q: Is it safe to drink alcohol?
A: In most cities, yes. In strictly halal areas (some restaurants in Kashgar), alcohol isn’t served. Respect the customs.
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The Bottom Line
Xinjiang is safe for tourists. The security measures are visible but mostly unobtrusive. The local people are welcoming. The biggest “dangers” are sunburn, altitude (if you go high), and overeating delicious laghman.
Come prepared, Respect the culture, and use common sense. You’ll have an incredible trip.
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Written by the XinjiangTravels team, based on multiple trips across Xinjiang. For more travel planning help, check our Xinjiang travel budget guide, what to pack for Xinjiang guide, and how to get to Xinjiang guide.
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