The key points about the International Grand Bazaar in the southern Xinjiang travel guide are as follows:?
1. Introduction and Characteristics of the Grand Bazaar?
The term ‘Grand Bazaar’ in Uyghur means ‘market’. It gathers a vast variety of goods and rich ethnic cultures. The architecture integrates Islamic style with modern elements, making it a great place for taking photos. The Grand Bazaar is not only a place for commodity trading but also a heritage of historical culture and a showcase of various aspects of life, resembling a vivid folk picture scroll.?
2. Tickets and Opening Hours?
The International Grand Bazaar is open for free all day. The recommended visiting time is late afternoon and evening, when the sunset glow interacts with the blue and yellow buildings of the Grand Bazaar, creating the most enchanting scenery. Meanwhile, food stalls become lively in the evening, allowing you to taste local foods, enjoy the night scene, and take photos.?
3. Transportation Guide?
Self-driving: It is not recommended to go by car as there is heavy traffic nearby, which is prone to traffic jams and inconvenient for parking.?
Subway: It is recommended to take Subway Line 1 and get off at the Erdaoqiao Station. The International Grand Bazaar is 200 meters away from Exit B of Erdaoqiao Station.?
Bus: Multiple bus lines are available, such as 10, 16, 61, 63, 104, etc. Get off at the Erdaoqiao Station.?
4. Food Recommendations?
Don’t miss Xinjiang’s dairy products, such as milk crust and yogurt, which have authentic flavors. Specialty foods like naan wrapped with meat, baked stuffed buns, and pilaf are all must-tries. Additionally, there are grilled mutton kebabs, meat cooked in a naan pit, yogurt glutinous rice cakes, etc., each of which is memorable.?
5. Shopping Guide?
There are various handicrafts and dried fruits in the Grand Bazaar, such as Uyghur flower hats, ethnic costumes, and Xinjiang specialties like raisins and red dates. When purchasing handicrafts such as copperware, pottery, and musical instruments, you can negotiate the price appropriately.?
6. Cultural Experience and Popular Photo Spots?
You can enjoy wonderful ethnic singing and dancing performances at the Grand Bazaar, and the night scene is particularly charming. The Silk Road Observation Tower is a landmark building of the Grand Bazaar. By climbing up the tower, you can overlook the beautiful scenery of the entire Grand Bazaar and the bustling urban area of Urumqi. Other popular photo spots include the Grand Bazaar’s Old Tea House, I Love Xinjiang, and Lovely Aladdin, etc.?
7. Precautions?
There is a security check at the entrance of the Grand Bazaar, so please take care of your belongings.?
Respect local customs and traditions, especially in public places with many people.?
Wear comfortable shoes as the Grand Bazaar is crowded with people.?
Keep the environment clean and do not litter casually.?
The above is the key introduction about the International Grand Bazaar in the southern Xinjiang travel guide, hoping it will be helpful for your trip.?