The south side of Urumqi (a.k.a. Wulumuqi or 乌鲁木齐) has a much different flavor than the north. Down here you’ll find the mosque, markets, and this – the International Bazaar. It’s a must-see for any person who can’t see any other part of Xinjiang besides its capital. Here you’ll be able to buy rugs, knives, instruments, hats…you name it. You’ll probably get ripped off, but that’s beside the point.

It’s almost March and snow still covers the ground here in northern Xinjiang. This photo, taken right outside 石河子 or “Shihezi”, a couple hours northwest of Uruqmi, is a beautiful representation of a rural road (which in this case is a toll road!) covered by Xinjiang’s winter.

Welcome to Xinjiang! If you’re looking for some quick facts or just want to learn a little more about this area, then you’ve come to the right place. Below is what I hope is a brief yet concise overview of this massive province here in China. To skip directly down to a different part of the article, click on the links below: 

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Capital: Urumqi

Alternate Names: Sinkiang (or Sin Kiang)

Location: Xinjiang lies in the north west corner of China, bordering only three of China’s provinces …