By Xinjiang Attractions Editorial Team | Last Updated: June 2026
The Apak Khoja Mausoleum is one of Kashgar’s most important historical sites. Here’s everything you need to know before your visit.
Quick Reference
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Site Name | Apak Khoja Mausoleum (阿帕克和卓麻扎) |
| Location | Kashgar City, Xinjiang, China |
| Opening Hours | 9:30 AM – 7:30 PM (April–October), 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (November–March) |
| Entrance Fee | 30 RMB (as of 2024) |
| Best Time to Visit | Morning or late afternoon (avoid midday heat) |
| Time Needed | 1–2 hours |
Our Experience at Apak Khoja Mausoleum
When we first visited the Kashgar Old City, we didn’t expect to be so moved by a mausoleum. The Apak Khoja Mausoleum sits quietly in the northeast corner of the Old City, away from the busiest tourist streets. We arrived in the late afternoon, when the sun was low and the blue tiles of the main dome glowed with an almost supernatural intensity.
We found the site to be remarkably peaceful. Unlike the bustling Sunday Market or the crowded Id Kah Mosque, the mausoleum offers a contemplative space where you can learn about Kashgar’s complex history. The tile work is extraordinary — intricate patterns in blue, green, and yellow that have survived for centuries. We spent nearly two hours wandering through the complex, reading the informational plaques (in Chinese and English), and watching local Uyghur families pay their respects.
The site is not just a tourist attraction — it’s an active place of cultural significance. You’ll see locals visiting, especially on weekends and religious holidays. This dual nature — historical monument and living cultural site — is what makes it special.
Getting to Apak Khoja Mausoleum
The mausoleum is located about 2 km northeast of the Id Kah Mosque, within the Kashgar Old City area.
- By taxi: Ask for “Apak Khoja Mausoleum” or show the driver: 阿帕克和卓麻扎. A taxi from the city center costs about 10 RMB.
- On foot: If you’re staying in the Old City, it’s walkable (20–30 minutes from Id Kah Mosque). Follow the signs pointing to “香妃墓” (Xiangfei Tomb) — the site is also known by this name.
- By bus: Local buses 20 and 23 stop near the Old City; from there it’s a 10–15 minute walk.
Opening Hours & Entrance Fees
Opening hours:
- April–October: 9:30 AM – 7:30 PM
- November–March: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Entrance fee: 30 RMB per person (as of 2024; confirm on-site as prices may change).
Discounts: Students with valid ID may receive discounted entry. Children under 1.2 meters are typically free.
Historical & Cultural Significance
The Apak Khoja Mausoleum is the burial site of Apak Khoja (1626–1694), a powerful political and religious leader in 17th-century Kashgar. The site houses the tombs of five generations of the Khoja family, who ruled Kashgar for nearly a century.
The complex is also known as the “Xiangfei Tomb” (香妃墓) because it’s said to contain the tomb of Xiangfei, a concubine of the Qianlong Emperor who supposedly came from Kashgar. However, historians debate this claim — the actual Xiangfei is buried in the Eastern Qing Tombs near Beijing.
Regardless of the legend, the architecture is stunning. The main chamber features a 26-meter-high dome covered in green and blue tiles, surrounded by four minarets. The tile work represents some of the finest examples of Islamic architecture in Xinjiang.
What to See Inside the Complex
1. The Main Mausoleum Chamber
The central dome chamber houses the tombs of Apak Khoja and his family members. The interior is decorated with carved wood, painted ceilings, and intricate tile work. Non-Muslim visitors are allowed to enter but should be respectful.
2. The Tile Work
The exterior tiles are the highlight. The blue-and-green ceramic tiles feature geometric and floral patterns typical of Central Asian Islamic architecture. Bring a camera — the patterns are incredibly photogenic.
3. The Courtyard & Gardens
The complex includes a peaceful courtyard with trees and gardens. It’s a great place to rest after exploring the Old City.
4. The Museum Section
Some buildings in the complex house exhibits about the Khoja family history and Uyghur cultural traditions.
Dress Code & Visitor Etiquette
- Dress modestly: This is a religious and cultural site. Cover shoulders and knees. Women may be asked to wear a headscarf (bring your own or use the disposable ones provided at the entrance).
- Remove shoes: Before entering the main chamber, you may be asked to remove your shoes. Wear socks or bring slippers.
- Photography: Photography is allowed in the courtyard and exterior, but may be restricted inside the main chamber. Look for signs or ask a staff member.
- Quiet behavior: Keep your voice down. Locals may be praying or paying respects.
- No drone flying: Drones are not allowed over the site.
Best Time to Visit
Time of day: Early morning (right after opening) or late afternoon (2 hours before closing) are best. The light is better for photography, and it’s less crowded.
Season: Spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) offer the most pleasant weather for walking around the Old City before/after your visit.
Avoid: Fridays can be busier due to prayers at nearby Id Kah Mosque. Chinese public holidays (Golden Week in October, Spring Festival) are extremely crowded.
Nearby Attractions
The mausoleum is close to several other Kashgar highlights:
- Id Kah Mosque: 2 km away, the largest mosque in China.
- Kashgar Sunday Market: Held every Sunday, about 3 km from the mausoleum.
- Kashgar Old City: The entire UNESCO World Heritage site is walkable from the mausoleum.
- Handicraft Street (Bositeng Street): Famous for copperware, embroidery, and musical instruments.
Sample Itinerary: Half-Day in Northeast Old City
9:30 AM: Arrive at Apak Khoja Mausoleum when it opens.
10:30 AM: Explore the tile work and museum section.
11:30 AM: Walk to the Old City area (20 minutes). Wander through the alleys.
12:30 PM: Lunch at a Uyghur restaurant near Id Kah Mosque. Try laghman noodles or dapanji.
2:00 PM: Visit Kashgar Sunday Market (if it’s a Sunday) or explore the Old City’s tea houses.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the Apak Khoja Mausoleum the same as the Xiangfei Tomb?
A: The site is commonly called “Xiangfei Tomb” by local tour guides, but historians believe the real Xiangfei is buried in Beijing. The site is primarily the Khoja family mausoleum.
Q: Can non-Muslims visit?
A: Yes. The site is open to all visitors. Just be respectful of local customs and religious sensitivity.
Q: How long should I spend here?
A: 1–2 hours is sufficient to see the main chamber, tile work, and courtyard.
Q: Is it worth visiting if I’ve already seen Id Kah Mosque?
A: Yes. The architecture is completely different, and the historical significance is unique. The tile work alone makes it worthwhile.
Disclaimer
This guide is based on our team’s personal visits to the Apak Khoja Mausoleum and extensive research. However, opening hours, entrance fees, and local regulations can change. The information provided here is for general planning purposes only. We are not responsible for any issues arising from reliance on this information. Always verify current conditions before your trip. Prices mentioned are approximate and based on our visits; actual prices may vary.
We do not have any commercial relationship with the site or local tour operators. Our recommendations are based solely on our experience as travelers.
About the Author
Meta Description: Visit Apak Khoja Mausoleum in Kashgar with our complete 2024 guide. Learn about opening hours, entrance fees, history, dress code, and how to get there from the Old City.
