Aitigar Mosque Travel Guide
The Largest Mosque in Xinjiang · Kashgar Old Town · Gate Tower and Square
Aitigaer Mosque is the largest mosque in Xinjiang, with a yellow and green gate tower standing on the square on the west side of the old city of Kashgar. The square is always lively: elderly people sunbathe, children run around, and the steamed bun stalls emit white steam.
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Destination Details
Id Kah Mosque is located in the center of Kashgar and was originally built in the mid-15th century, with multiple expansions since then. It serves not only as a place of worship but also as the public living room of the old city of Kashgar — the square in front of the gate is where locals gather most in their daily lives.
Main Highlights
Gate and Minarets
The main entrance is a pointed arch gate made of yellow bricks, flanked symmetrically by two minarets with pavilions topped with green domes. The brick carvings and geometric patterns on the gate are typical Central Asian-Islamic styles, completely different from the aesthetics of temples in mainland China.
Square and Old City
Many people spend only about twenty minutes inside the mosque itself, but the real experience lies in the square: in the evening, you can see many local families taking walks, with the laughter of children, the aroma of baked buns, and pigeons flying past the gate together. The square is surrounded by the earth-colored alleys of the old city, which you can wander into naturally.
Suggested Route
- Mosque → Old City alleys → Handicraft street → Elevated traditional residences, half a day.
- Combine with Xiangfei Garden and the livestock bazaar for a full day in Kashgar.
Practical Information
Visitors need to dress modestly; women are advised to bring a headscarf. Do not enter the prayer hall during prayer times; quietly wait in the corridors. Friday is the main prayer day and has the largest crowds, so if you want empty shots, it is recommended to visit on a weekday morning.
