Kashgar Cattle and Sheep Grand Bazaar Travel Guide
The liveliest trade on the Silk Road
Kashgar Cattle and Sheep Grand Bazaar is one of the largest livestock markets in southern Xinjiang. On market days, farmers from four neighboring villages herd their cattle and sheep to the circular trading ground, bargaining, clapping hands, and leading the animals away—all done without embellishment. This is a deeper layer of Kashgar beyond the ancient city: a living fossil of the economy, folk customs, and the commercial veins of the Silk Road.
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Destination Details
'Grand Bazaar' refers to a large market. Livestock bazaars are held on a weekly schedule, primarily trading cattle, sheep, donkeys, and horses. Deals are made through the ancient method of clapping hands to negotiate prices, and every moment of herding animals, inspecting teeth, and counting money is material for cultural photography.
Highlights
- Trading area: The scene of herds of cattle and sheep inside enclosures amidst crowds of market-goers is extremely striking
- Food stalls: Freshly slaughtered and cooked barbecue and mixed noodles, the unique hustle and bustle of the bazaar
- Schedule: The market is liveliest on its regular weekly days; it is quiet on other days, so check in advance
With many people and animals, pay attention to your soles and personal belongings. Obtain consent before photographing portraits, and follow the guidance of the staff in the trading area.
