Xinjiang Transportation Guide: How to Get Around 2024
Xinjiang is massive — 1.66 million km², larger than Iran and almost as large as Alaska. Getting around requires planning. This guide covers every transportation option for your Xinjiang travel.
By Air (Fastest for Long Distances)
Xinjiang has 22+ airports — the most of any Chinese province.
| Route | Flight Time | Price (¥) |
|---|---|---|
| Urumqi → Kashgar | 2h | 600-1,500 |
| Urumqi → Kanas (via Burqin) | 1.5h | 500-1,200 |
| Urumqi → Hotan | 2h | 800-1,500 |
| Urumqi → Yining (Yili) | 1.5h | 400-1,000 |
Tip: Book domestic flights 2-4 weeks in advance for best prices.
By Train (Scenic & Affordable)
Xinjiang’s railway network is expanding rapidly with high-speed rail.
| Route | Time | Price (¥) |
|---|---|---|
| Urumqi → Kashgar | 12-15h | 150-400 |
| Urumqi → Kanas (Altay) | 10h | 100-300 |
| Urumqi → Hotan | 20h | 200-500 |
Tip: Overnight sleepers save hotel costs. Book soft sleeper for comfort.
By Long-Distance Bus
Buses connect almost every town, but trips are long.
- Urumqi → Kashgar: 1,500 km, 18-20h, ¥300-400
- Kashgar → Hotan: 500 km, 6-7h, ¥80-120
- Comfort: Basic, recommended only for budget travelers
By Car / Road Trip (Best for Flexibility)
Driving in Xinjiang is an incredible experience — endless landscapes, freedom to stop.
- Rental: ¥200-500/day (SUV recommended for mountain roads)
- Driver: ¥500-1,000/day (including driver’s meals/accommodation)
- Gas: ¥7-8/liter, fill up whenever you see a station in remote areas
- Speed cameras: Everywhere — strictly enforced
Getting Around Within Cities
Urumqi
- Metro: Line 1 runs north-south (airport to city)
- Taxi: Start at ¥10, convenient app-based (Didi operates in Urumqi)
- Bus: Extensive network, ¥1-2, but hard to navigate
Kashgar, Turpan, Hotan
- Taxi: Start at ¥5-8, no app needed (just hail)
- E-bike rental: ¥30-50/day, great for Old City exploration
Travel Tips
- Distances are huge: Urumqi to Kashgar = 1,500 km (same as London to Rome!)
- Book transport in advance: July-August and National Day (Oct 1-7) sell out
- Carry cash: Small towns may not accept cards/Alipay foreign cards
Plan at least 2-3 internal flights or a 7-10 day road trip to see the highlights of Xinjiang comfortably.
