Aksu is a city in Xinjiang, in north-western China, lying on the old routes of the Silk Road. It is known to visitors for its traditional bazaars, its Islamic architecture and the desert landscapes that begin close to town. The city is also written 阿克苏 in Chinese and ئاقسۇ in Uyghur, names you may see on signs and maps.
What to expect
The city suits travellers who want to see daily life in a place shaped by the Silk Road. The traditional bazaars are the natural starting point: lively, crowded and full of local goods and food, where wandering and watching are the main pleasures. Alongside them, the Islamic architecture gives the city much of its character, and it is worth taking time to look at the buildings and their details as you move between markets and streets.
Around the city
Aksu is also a gateway to desert country. The landscapes nearby are a contrast to the bustle of town, and a day or more spent beyond the city edges can bring a sense of how wide and open this part of Xinjiang is. Plan your time around both: the markets and architecture in town, and the desert scenery outside it.
Before you go
- Allow time for the bazaars, which are best explored slowly.
- Look at the Islamic architecture on foot, at an unhurried pace.
- Set aside a separate part of your trip for the desert landscapes nearby.
- Check local arrangements for travel and visits before you set out, as conditions can change.