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Urumqi Grand Bazaar
Introducing Urumqi Grand Bazaar
The Grand Bazaar Urumqi is a marketplace in Urumqi. The Grand Bazaar Urumqi is the largest bazaar in the world by scale, covering over 90,000 square meters (22.24 acres).
Reflecting Xinjiang’s historical position as a cultural crossroads, the Grand Bazaar’s architecture is a pleasing blend of Islamic and Uyghur styles. Soaring arches and domes stand alongside traditional Kashgar-inspired residences, while the façade boasts intricate geometric brickwork. Small, uniquely shaped windows and doors create an alluring play of light and shadow, making the bazaar a truly unforgettable sight.
The Grand Bazaar beckons with the promise of an experience far beyond the ordinary. Over 100,000 visitors answer its call each day, eager to lose themselves in the labyrinthine alleys, where ethnic commerce unfolds like a vibrant tapestry, cultural performances enchant the senses, and the air hangs heavy with the tempting aromas of Uyghur cuisine.
Urumqi Grand Bazaar Fast Facts
• AKA: Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar
• Chinese Name: Guo Ji Da Ba Zha 国际大巴扎
• Best Time to Visit: All year around
• Recommended Visiting Hours: 2-3 hours
• Things to Do: Photography, Local food and handicrafts
• Opening Hours: All day; 09:30-22:00 for Shops
• Entrance Fee: Free
• Address: 510 Jiefang South Road, Tianshan District, Urumqi, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region
What to Expect at Urumqi Grand Bazaar
The magnificent bazaar shall take a couple of hours of your time – and for good reason. Bargain for spices and crafts, and experience the heart of Uyghur culture. The air thrums with the Uyghur language and friendly banter. Here, generations connect, sharing stories and traditions as easily as greetings.
Bazaar Shops
Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar is home to at least 3,300 shops, a dazzling array that will leave visitors spoilt for choice. The merchandise primarily features ethnic goods and local delicacies, encompassing a diverse range of products including jewelry, clothing, accessories, musical instruments, copperware, spices, carpets, handicrafts, jade, fruits, and much more. Don’t leave without finding the perfect gifts to share the magic of Xinjiang.
Silk Road Tower
The Silk Road Tower, an imposing presence at the heart of the Grand Bazaar, is an observation tower soaring over 70 meters (230 ft) high. Its design reflects the diverse cultural influences that have shaped Xinjiang, drawing inspiration from the architectural styles of ancient Egypt, Rome, and Babylon for its distinct columns. The tower’s top echoes the Kalyan Minaret in Bukhara, Uzbekistan, while its body incorporates elements from iconic towers in Xinjiang, such as the Emin Minaret in Turpan, reinterpreting their forms with a secular interpretation.
Built with earthy red firebricks, the tower features ornate brickwork and bas-reliefs depicting the Twelve Muqam (木卡姆), a traditional Uyghur musical performance. The top floor houses replicas of the mesmerizing murals from the Bezeklik Thousand Buddha Caves, inviting visitors into ancient Buddhist art. Adding to the tower’s artistic allure, the spiral staircase is adorned with paintings by local artists, depicting scenes from ancient Silk Road cities like Kucha and Turpan.
The Effendi Naan House
Naan (馕) is a beloved staple, a flatbread baked to a golden brown in a tandoor oven or fried on a tawa. The Effendi Naan House, located in the bazaar, is the city’s first establishment dedicated to this delicious Xinjiang delicacy. Inside, visitors can explore the world of naan through exhibits showcasing Xinjiang’s six major naan-producing regions and a diverse collection of nearly a hundred varieties, including the impressive Kuqa naan. Detailed illustrations and life-size dioramas unveil the traditional naan-making process. For a truly immersive experience, head upstairs to try your hand at shaping and baking naan yourself before relaxing in the tasting area to savor the fruits of your labor.
How to Get to Urumqi Grand Bazaar
• By Bus: Take bus 61, 104 to Xinjjiang guoji Dabazha (Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar) Station.
• By Subway: Take subway line 1 to Er’daoqiao Station.
Additional Travel Advice on Urumqi Grand Bazaar
• Please take care of your belongings as there are always plenty of visitors at the bazaar.
• Please wear sunscreen, hat and sunglasses to prevent strong sunlight.