Hotan City Travel

Hotan City, Xinjiang — the world capital of jade. Explore the thousand-year jade mining culture, experience the southern Xinjiang bazaar atmosphere, and immerse yourself in the purest Uyghur folk customs.

3000 Years
Jade Mining History
90%
Uyghur Population Ratio
325 km
Length of Yurungkash River
100+
Jade Trading Stalls
Panoramic view of Hotan Yurungkash River
Hotan Yurungkash River
Hotan Yurungkash River

Hotan City 2-Day 1-Night Jade Culture Tour

Search for jade along the jade river, browse the characteristic bazaar, taste authentic cuisine

Duration
2 days / 1 night
Main Destinations
Yurungkash River, Grand Bazaar, Mosque
Suitable For
Culture enthusiasts, jade collectors
Budget per Person
¥800-¥1200
01
Jade Exploration
Yurungkash River · Hotan Grand Bazaar
Highlights

Head to the Yurungkash River in the early morning to experience the fun of searching for jade. Visit the Hotan Grand Bazaar in the afternoon to shop for specialty handicrafts.

Attractions
Yurungkash River
The world-famous main source of Hotan jade, with high-quality pebbles embedded in the riverbed. Visitors can experience the traditional "jade searching" activity.
Hotan Grand Bazaar
One of the largest markets in southern Xinjiang, famous for jade trading and gathering a variety of ethnic handicrafts and specialty products.
Practical Info
Accommodation Recommendations
  • Hotan Hotel
  • Yu Capital Hotel
  • Characteristic Homestay
Food Recommendations
  • Roasted Whole Lamb
  • Kumeqi Bread
  • Hotan Jujube
Travel Tips
  • Go jade searching early in the morning
  • Bargaining is possible at the bazaar
  • Keep valuables safe
02
Cultural Experience
Id Kah Mosque · Hotan Museum · Departure
Highlights

Visit the Id Kah Mosque in the morning to learn about Islamic culture. Tour the Hotan Museum in the afternoon and depart in the evening.

Attractions
Id Kah Mosque
The largest mosque in the Hotan region, with magnificent architecture, serving as the religious activity center for local Muslims.
Hotan Museum
A comprehensive museum showcasing the history, culture and unearthed artifacts of the Hotan region, with the jade culture exhibition area being particularly distinctive.
Practical Info
Featured Experiences
  • Mosque Cultural Lecture
  • Museum Artifact Appreciation
  • Ethnic Handicraft Observation
Souvenir Recommendations
  • Hotan Jade Jewelry
  • Atlas Silk
  • Handwoven Carpet
Important Notes
  • Respect religious customs
  • Photography prohibited in the museum
  • Jade requires authentication certificate

Must-Try Foods in Hotan City

Kumeqi Bread

A traditional Hotan specialty bread, a large pie baked in a special earthen pit — crispy on the outside and soft inside, can be eaten with various meats.

Roasted Whole Lamb

The highest etiquette for Uyghur hospitality, using local Hotan lamb, traditionally roasted with crispy skin and tender meat, offering a unique flavor.

Hotan Jujube

A national geographical indication product, with plump fruits, high sweetness, rich nutrition — an excellent choice for nourishing health.

Hotan City Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit
  • May-June: Pleasant climate
  • September-October: Fruit harvest season
  • Avoid July-August high temperatures
Must-Try Experiences
  • Jade Searching at Yurungkash River
  • Treasure Hunting at the Grand Bazaar
  • Mosque Cultural Experience
  • Specialty Food Tasting
Jade Buying Guide
  • Choose reputable merchants
  • Request authentication certificate
  • Avoid roadside stalls near scenic spots
  • Bargain reasonably
Frequently Asked Questions
  • Best time for jade searching? → Early morning when water levels are low
  • Can I visit the mosque? → Open outside prayer times
  • Essential items? → Sunscreen, comfortable shoes
  • Can jade be taken on flights? → Must be checked in

Explore Districts & Counties of Hotan Prefecture