Underrated and Unexplored: Why Xinjiang Isn’t on Every Traveler’s List (Yet)
- Shan Tour
- Apr 10
- 3 min read
The Untold Beauty That Most Travelers Miss
Xinjiang, a vast region in northwestern China, is one of the most breathtaking yet under-visited destinations in the country. With stunning natural scenery, diverse cultures, and rich history along the ancient Silk Road, Xinjiang should be a dream for adventurers. So why don’t more people travel to Xinjiang?
1. Xinjiang Is Absolutely Massive
Spanning over 1.6 million square kilometers, Xinjiang is bigger than France, Germany, Britain, and Italy combined! Popular attractions like Kanas Lake, the Duku Highway, and Tianshan Mountains are often located hundreds of kilometers apart. Without custom itinerary, navigating the region is a real challenge. It's neighboring Central Asian countries, such as Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Mongolia, and even Afghanistan! If you have a trip planned to these countries, Xinjiang nice to be the next stop!
2. Public Transport Is Limited
One of the top reasons why people don’t visit Xinjiang is the difficulty of getting around. Many scenic areas are far from train routes or airports, and public buses rarely serve the remote villages or national parks. Independent Xinjiang travel often requires time, flexibility, and a spirit of adventure. Road-trip is the best way to explore Xinjiang, but due to policy restrictions, renting a car for self-drive travel is very difficult for international travelers in China.
3. Misunderstanding and Outdated Perceptions
There’s a lot of confusion about safety in Xinjiang. Many international travelers wonder, is Xinjiang safe to visit? While media coverage may raise concerns, the reality on the ground is much more peaceful. Local people — from Uyghur to Kazakh to Han — are warm, welcoming, and proud of their homeland. You do find a stronger police presence in Xinjiang compared to other parts of China, but don’t worry—officers are generally friendly and approachable. If you ever run into difficulties, they’re easy to find and ready to help.
4. Lack of Awareness
Compared to mainstream tourist hubs like Beijing or Chengdu, Xinjiang tourism remains relatively unknown outside of China. Hidden gems like the Karakoram Highway, Sayram Lake, or the alpine pastures of Nalati simply don’t get the attention they deserve. Beyond the natural beauty, what makes Xinjiang truly special is its rich and diverse culture. Home to many ethnic minorities, especially the Uyghur and Kazakh people, the region offers a cultural experience that’s completely different from China’s mainstream. It’s like stepping into another world within the same country.
5. Is a Special Permit Needed? - No!
Many people mistakenly believe that foreigners need a special permit in addition to a visa to travel to Xinjiang. The truth is, no additional permit is required to explore most of the region. However, if you are traveling with a 240-hour transit visa-free policy, Xinjiang is not included in the 24 allowed provinces for this visa type. Additionally, if your travel plans involve visiting border towns, you will need a "Border Pass" (边防证). This can be easily obtained through a travel agency or directly at a police station in Xinjiang.
Why You Should Still Go Xinjiang is a once-in-a-lifetime destination. For those who love off-the-beaten-path travel in China, it offers unmatched landscapes, spiritual depth, and unforgettable local encounters. Whether you’re hiking ancient nomadic trails, camping by crystal lakes, or tasting hand-pulled noodles in a bustling bazaar, you’ll feel worlds away from the ordinary.
Pro Tip: Joining a guided tour or custom-designed trip can make all the difference. With experienced local guides, private transport, and insider knowledge, what feels inaccessible becomes effortlessly immersive.
So, maybe it’s time to ask not why people don’t visit Xinjiang… but why you should.
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