Things to do in Kuqa

Search attractions or local attractions & tours

Search

Explore top experiences

Top 10 attractions in Kuqa

View all Attractions

No. 9 of Best Things to Do in Xinjiang

Tianshan Mysterious Grand Canyon

7.3

4.6/5

2.5k reviews

Tianshan Mysterious Grand Canyon is also calledTianshan Mysterious Grand Canyon, located in northern Kuqa, Aksu Prefecture, Xinjiang. "Kizilia" means "red cliffs" in Uyghur, as the grand canyon is composed of massive red-brown mountain formations. The red-brown peaks of Tianshan Mysterious Grand Canyon soar into the sky, appearing like clusters of burning flames under sunlight. Entering the canyon and walking among the reddish-brown mountains feels like stepping into a tranquil, cool world. The canyon mouth is quite open, but as you venture deeper, the path winds through peaks, alternating between wide and narrow sections—some spots are barely wide enough for one person to pass sideways. The canyon floor is relatively flat, allowing for leisurely strolls most of the time, flanked by towering rock walls. Looking up, against the backdrop of the blue sky, countless bizarre peaks and rocks take on myriad forms: the divine dog guarding the valley, the swirling ancient castle, the apparition cave, the jade maiden spring, and views like the Tianshan Mysterious Grand Canyon's resting camel peak—each vividly lifelike. Hidden in the canyon, the Tianshan Mysterious Grand Canyon-Ai Grotto is less than 2 km from the valley entrance, perched high on a sheer cliff. Research indicates the grotto was built during the mid-Tang dynasty. The small cave measures less than 5 m in depth and approx. one person's height, with an arched ceiling. Fragments of murals remain on three walls, unusually featuring Chinese characters—a stark contrast to hundreds of other grottoes in ancient Western Regions, clearly showcasing traces of Han culture.

Kuqa · 45.8km from downtown



No. 3 of Best Things to Do in Aksu Prefecture

Kuqa Prince's Mansion

6.9

4.1/5

1.9k reviews

King Palace In Kuqa is located in the old town of Kuqa County, Aksu Prefecture, Xinjiang. It served as the residence for generations of Kuqa's local Uyghur princes since 1759. The original palace was reduced to ruins, and the current structure was meticulously reconstructed on its original site based on the memories of the last Kuqa prince, Dawut Mahsut. Covering a vast area of approximately 200–300 meters in length and width, the palace complex features multiple Uyghur-style buildings with vibrant interior designs, offering excellent photo opportunities throughout. The grounds include beautifully landscaped gardens and green spaces, creating a pleasant environment. The palace tour is divided into three main sections: the Kucha cultural exhibition area, the palace visiting area, and the ancient city wall. Visitors can explore the site on foot, with a recommended visiting time of around 2 hours. The Qiuci Culture Exhibition Area showcases the cultural customs of the ancient Qiuci Kingdom in Xinjiang's history, featuring numerous textual and pictorial descriptions, precious artifacts of Qiuci Buddhism, as well as exhibits of production tools, coins, and folk crafts from the ancient Qiuci Kingdom. The old city wall is an ancient structure within the princely residence and can be briefly viewed. The key visiting area is the princely residence section, which is displayed in its original form, including items once used by successive Kuqa kings. Wax figures recreate the daily life scenes of the princely family, allowing visitors to explore and experience the atmosphere of the Kuqa kings' lives. It's important to note that Dawut Mahsut, the last Kuqa king (also the last prince officially recognized by China's central government) who once resided in the princely residence, passed away on July 30, 2014. Visitors today can no longer meet him but can only tour the princely residence.

Kuqa · 3.4km from downtown



No. 4 of Best Things to Do in Aksu Prefecture

Kizilya Scenic Spot

5.9

4.6/5

94 reviews

Kizilya Scenic Spot is an ideal destination combining natural wonders with cultural heritage. It is hailed as the "Tianshan Mysterious Grand CanyonThe Danxia landforms and canyon terrain complement each other, showcasing unique natural beauty. The canyon stretches over 5,000 meters in length with a natural elevation drop exceeding 200 meters from end to entrance. Inside, jagged peaks twist and turn, springs murmur melodically, and birds sing cheerfully—creating a living landscape painting. Notably, 1,400 meters deep from the canyon entrance lies the Thousand Buddha Cave ruins dating back to the Tang Dynasty. Its exquisite murals hold immense artistic value as a precious Buddhist cultural heritage of ancient Western Regions. Strolling through Kizilya Scenic Spot, visitors not only witness nature's masterful craftsmanship but also immerse themselves in rich historical culture, making it an extraordinary travel destination.

Kuqa · 43.5km from downtown



Qiuci Wei and Jin Ancient Tomb Site Museum

No. 18 of Family-friendly Attractions in Xinjiang

Qiuci Wei and Jin Ancient Tomb Site Museum

5.6

4.5/5

83 reviews

The Qiuci Wei and Jin Ancient Tombe Site Museum is Xinjiang's first underground ancient tombs museum, located on Youyi Road in Kuqa City, Aksu Prefecture. Built on the original site of the Kuqa Youyi Road Tombs - a nationally protected cultural heritage site, it authentically displays the only Han-style brick-chambered tomb complex in Xinjiang that shares identical architectural forms with those found in Central Plains and Hexi regions. The museum features an "archaeological site + digital technology" exhibition area, employing digital cloud displays, VR experiences, gauze curtain projections, and interactive screens to vividly reconstruct the cultural customs and daily life of ancient Qiuci. More than just a museum showcasing ancient tombs, it serves as a bridge connecting past and present, allowing visitors to experience both the weight of history and the profound depth of Chinese culture.

Kuqa · 482m from downtown



No. 9 of Best Things to Do in Aksu Prefecture

Subash Buddhist Ruins

5.5

4.7/5

237 reviews

The Subash Buddhist Ruins, originally named "Subash Buddhist Temple" and also known as "Zhaohuli Grand Temple," are bisected by the roaring Kuqa River. Legend has it this river is the downstream section of the "Mother-Child River" from Journey to the West. These ancient ruins were first built during the Eastern Han Dynasty (1st century AD) and reached their zenith during the Sui and Tang Dynasties (6th–8th centuries AD). The renowned monk Xuanzang stopped here on his westward journey to India to obtain Buddhist scriptures. Seeing the temple filled with monks and bustling with incense offerings, he stayed for over two months to preach and spread Buddhist teachings. By the mid-7th century, after the Tang Dynasty's Anxi Protectorate relocated to Kucha, eminent monks from central China gathered here, with daily rituals flourishing amid morning bells and evening drums. However, the temple was burned down during warfare in the 9th century, leading to its gradual decline until its complete abandonment in the early 14th century. The East Subashi Temple faces the West Subashi Temple across the river. The East Temple has a slightly smaller architectural scale. The current ruins include a Buddhist hall with niches remaining on its damaged walls, and a pagoda standing outside the hall. The pagoda's base is square, with a three-tiered structure and a cylindrical upper section, now standing at a remaining height of approx. 8m. Surrounding the area are monastic quarters, meditation rooms, and other Buddhist architectural complexes.

Kuqa · 17.5km from downtown



No. 10 of Best Things to Do in Aksu Prefecture

Kuche Temple

5.4

4.3/5

430 reviews

Kuche Temple is the second largest in Xinjiang.Id Kah MosqueThe second largest temple, located 4 km from Kuqa New Town. Among the numerous earthen buildings in Kuqa's old quarter, the green glazed dome of Kuche Temple shines brilliantly under the sunlight. The temple's gateway tower stands 18.3 meters tall, entirely built with blue bricks, with its towering minaret exuding solemn grandeur. The pillars are carved with Islamic-style patterns, and the domed roof resembles the celestial sphere. The prayer hall inside covers 1,500 square meters, accommodating up to 3,000 worshippers. Sixty-four hexagonal pillars arranged in eight rows, adorned with colorful carvings and paintings, support a magnificent ceiling composed of 102 grid-patterned panels, creating a splendid and awe-inspiring sight. Kuche Temple is said to have been built during the 16th century by Ishak Wali, leader of the Black Mountain faction of Islam in Xinjiang, while he stayed in Kuqa to preach after traveling from Kashgar. Originally constructed as an earthen mosque, it was rebuilt with wooden structures in the 17th century. After being destroyed by fire in 1923, the current temple was completed in 1931. Notably, north of the small prayer hall stands a historically significant "religious court"—a relic of theocratic governance and one of the few remaining Islamic judicial sites preserved in Xinjiang.

Kuqa · 2.9km from downtown



Kuqa Big Nang City

5.4

3.5/5

110 reviews

Kuqa Big Nang City is not only a centralized hub for nang production and sales, but also a AAA-rated folk scenic tourist area. Covering 20,000 square meters, it is divided into two main sections: residential housing and commercial zones. The commercial area features a nang culture exhibition hall and an ethnic cuisine dining district.Large naanThe production workshop and naan exhibition and sales hall showcase various unique aspects of naan bread. At the Naan Culture Exhibition Hall, you can learn about various types of naan, each with its own unique characteristics, such as Kuqa large naan, sesame naan, walnut naan, and sheker naan.

Kuqa · 580m from downtown



Kizilgaha Beacon Tower

5

4.4/5

83 reviews

Kizilgaha Beacon TowerIn Uyghur, it means "red-beaked crow" or "red sentry post," built during the Han Dynasty. This towering ancient military structure has withstood over 2,000 years of weathering yet still stands majestic today. It is one of the longest-standing and best-preserved rammed-earth beacon tower ruins among the hundreds along the ancient Silk Road in Xinjiang. The beacon tower's base is rectangular, measuring 6 meters east to west and 4.5 meters north to south, with a remaining height of 16 meters. It tapers from a wider base to a narrower top, gradually narrowing upward. Kizilgaha Beacon TowerThe main structure is built with rammed earth, with compacted layers about 15 cm thick. The upper part of the beacon tower features a wooden pillar framework, with each layer spaced approximately 1 meter apart, topped by adobe masonry. A watchtower was constructed on top, with remnants of wooden railings still visible. Due to prolonged weathering, the end section has eroded into a concave shape, forming a large groove. On the northern side lie collapsed ruins—remnants of ancient structures that once provided access to the beacon tower's summit.

Kuqa · 9.9km from downtown



No. 1 of Night Attractions in Aksu Prefecture

Old City of Kuche

4.9

4.7/5

41 reviews

Kuqa Old City is a national historical and cultural city, with the majority of its residents being Uyghurs. The ancient buildings within Kuqa Old City have absorbed cultural elements and architectural styles from Central China and Europe, while also integrating traditional Western Region architecture, painting, and song and dance arts, retaining their traditional layout and historical appearance to this day.

Kuqa · 2.9km from downtown



Qiuci Alley

4.5

4.8/5

5 reviews

Qiuci Alley is located in Kuqa City and is a well-preserved district in the old town of Kuqa that retains the street layout and character of the late Qing Dynasty and early Republic of China era, where you can sample a variety of local ethnic snacks.

Kuqa · 2km from downtown







Traveller favourites curated for you

No. 11 of Best Things to Do in Aksu Prefecture

Kucha Music and Dance

5.4

4.6/5

52 reviews

Kuqa · 569m from downtown

View all Attractions

Round-trip from Kuqa: 1-day tour to the secret land of Baicheng

Departs from Kuqa

Free cancellationDuration: 7.2 hrsEnglish

FromVND 10,319,057

View all Day tours

8D7N • Southbound Xinjiang – Urumqi to Kashgar, Exploring Southern Xinjiang's Desert Scenery, Stay in Kashgar and Taxkorgan

4 booked

Fit this experience into your travel plans and enjoy a photo shoot and afternoon tea, with private transfers included. | Experience a premium private tour with selected hotels and memories that will last a lifetime. | Enjoy flexible itinerary planning with a private charter, plus 24-hour travel assistance along the way. Your local driver knows the road conditions well, helping ensure a smoother journey.

MandarinGuaranteed departureDeposit acceptedArr. & dep. transfers incl.Multiple car types availablePrivate Tours

From VND 30,661,689

View More Private Tours in Kuqa

15D14N • Kashgar Old Town + Altay + Xinjiang Urumuqi City + Hemu Village

This 15-day classic route covers both northern and southern Xinjiang, gathering snow-capped mountains, alpine lakes, vast deserts, primitive villages and ancient human landscapes in one trip. | The journey is reasonably arranged with sufficient sightseeing time and no rushed schedules, allowing you to fully appreciate the unique customs and natural beauty of Xinjiang. | Enjoy a relaxing journey with comfortable travel arrangements - suitable for families, groups, and leisure vacationers alike.

MandarinGuaranteed departureArr. & dep. transfers incl.Private Tours

From VND 61,933,616

View More Private Tours in Kuqa





More things to do

Private Tours in Kuqa

View More Private Tours in Kuqa

8D7N • Southern Xinjiang + Bosten Lake + Ancient City of Kashi + Muztagh Ata Peak-Karakul Lake Scenic Area

MandarinGuaranteed departureDeposit acceptedArr. & dep. transfers incl.Excellent accommodationMultiple car types availablePrivate Tours

This in-depth tour of southern Xinjiang takes you through all the must-see scenic spots along the southern Xinjiang cultural route. · Explore the ancient Silk Road city of Kashgar and discover the timeless charm of southern Xinjiang. · This package includes free 24-hour travel concierge service and complimentary private car transfers, so you can enjoy a hassle-free trip without planning. Including empty run fee

From VND 29,691,038

10D9N • Xinjiang Urumqi + Southern Xinjiang + Lop Nor Village + Baisha Mountain - Baisha Lake + Muztagh Ata Peak - Karakul Lake Scenic Area

MandarinGuaranteed departureArr. & dep. transfers incl.Excellent accommodationMultiple car types availablePrivate Tours

Take a deep journey through Southern Xinjiang as you explore Lop Nor Village, experience the grandeur of the mysterious Tianshan Grand Canyon, and soak up the atmosphere of Kashgar Ancient City. · A dedicated one-on-one travel planner creates a personalized itinerary for your trip in Xinjiang. Including empty run fee. · Stay in 5-diamond hotels (Chinese standard) in a twin or king room at the hotels listed above, or similar.

From VND 34,926,812

8D7N • Urumqi + Southern Xinjiang + Korla + Kashgar City + Aksu Prefecture + Kuqa + Panlong Ancient Road + Xiang Fei Park

MandarinGuaranteed departureFree cancellationArr. & dep. transfers incl.Deposit acceptedExcellent accommodationMultiple car types availablePrivate Tours

City Walk in Kashgar, Deep Dive into Southern Xinjiang's Landscapes, Wensu Grand Canyon, Xiang Fei Park, Baisha Lake, Karakul Lake Scenic Area, Kizil Caves. · Complimentary 24-Hour VIP Airport Transfer, stopping at safe sections for photos of the stunning scenery along the way, with spacious and comfortable vehicles. · No Shopping, No Optional Fees, No Hidden Costs - A Pure Leisure Tour, Perfect for Families, BFFs and Friends. Minimize interactions with strangers. Including empty run fee

From VND 33,854,915

10D9N • Urumqi + Southern Xinjiang + Korla + Kashgar City + Aksu Prefecture + Kuqa + Panlong Ancient Road + Xiang Fei Park

MandarinGuaranteed departureFree cancellationArr. & dep. transfers incl.Deposit acceptedExcellent accommodationMultiple car types availablePrivate Tours

City Walk in Kashgar, Deep Dive into Southern Xinjiang's Landscapes, Wensu Grand Canyon, Xiang Fei Park, Baisha Lake, Karakul Lake Scenic Area, Kizil Caves. · Complimentary 24-Hour VIP Airport Transfer, stopping at safe sections for photos of the stunning scenery along the way, with spacious and comfortable vehicles. · No Shopping, No Optional Fees, No Hidden Costs – A Pure Leisure Tour, Perfect for Families, BFFs and Friends. Minimize interactions with strangers. [Including empty run fee]

From VND 35,120,319

11D10N • Southern Xinjiang + Urumqi + Kashgar City + Flaming Mountain Scenic Spot + Bosten Lake Dahekou Scenic Area + Ancient City of Kashi

MandarinGuaranteed departureFree cancellationArr. & dep. transfers incl.Deposit acceptedExcellent accommodationMultiple car types availablePrivate Tours

24H WeChat concierge service, complimentary airport transfer by private car. · Desert Highway, traverse the Taklamakan Desert, Tianshan Mysterious Grand Canyon, Karakul Lake, Ancient City of Kashgar, Kizil Caves. · Premium 5-star hotels selected for the journey, ensuring comfort every step of the way.

From VND 35,889,514

10D9N • Xinjiang + Urumqi + Southern Xinjiang + Kashgar City + Pamir Plateau

5/5

1 review

MandarinGuaranteed departureFree cancellationArr. & dep. transfers incl.Deposit acceptedExcellent accommodationMultiple car types availablePrivate Tours

Visit Tajik villages, listen to the stories of the Silk Road, taste special food · Free 24-hour airport pick-up and drop-off service, on-trip service included

From VND 37,491,829

11D10N • Xinjiang + Urumqi + Southern Xinjiang + Kashgar City + Pamir Plateau

Mandarin/EnglishGuaranteed departureFree cancellationArr. & dep. transfers incl.Deposit acceptedExcellent accommodationMultiple car types availablePrivate Tours

Tianshan Mysterious Grand Canyon, Karakul Lake, Kizil Thousand Buddha Caves , Yarkand Kingdom Tombs · 24/7 WeChat concierge service and complimentary private airport transfers are also available · Luxurious travel experience with nine nights in 5-star rated hotels, ensuring complete comfort

From VND 41,083,478

9D8N • Urumqi + Southern Xinjiang + Korla + Kashgar City + Aksu Prefecture + Kuqa + Panlong Ancient Path + Xiang Fei Park

MandarinGuaranteed departureFree cancellationArr. & dep. transfers incl.Deposit acceptedExcellent accommodationMultiple car types availablePrivate Tours

Highlights include a city walk in Kashgar, a deep dive into southern Xinjiang's landscapes, Tianshan Tomur Grand Canyon, Xiang Fei Park, Baisha Lake, Karakul Lake Scenic Area, and the Kizil Caves. · We offer a complimentary 24-hour VIP airport pick-up and drop-off service, and along the way you'll ride in spacious, comfortable vehicles with safe stops for photos of the stunning scenery. · This pure leisure tour has no hidden fees, is ideal for families and friends, features local specialties, and even covers the vehicle's empty return costs.

From VND 31,013,113

Kuqa Today's weatherHazy 0-14℃

Kuqa weather for the next 2 days11/6: -1-14℃, 11/7: -1-14℃

Free things to do in Kuqa





What travellers say about Kuqa

耳朵也不行23 October 2026

5.0

I originally planned to go to Wensu Grand Canyon, but it was closed due to weather, so I went to Tianshan Mysterious Grand Canyon instead. Luckily, the weather was great; with the blue sky, the canyon's colors were particularly bright, and the contrasts were even more striking, making it perfect for taking photos in bright colors. The temperature difference inside the canyon is significant, depending on whether you get sun exposure. I recommend bringing a scarf this season; it's warm and can also be used as a photo prop. Although the scenic area isn't very large, walking around and taking photos will still take about two hours. If you don't want to walk, you can take the park shuttle bus or choose to ride a camel.