Id Kah Mosque

The Id Kah Mosque has occupied the heart of Kashgar since the 15th century. With its ochre-yellow façade and minaret visible from afar, it shapes the religious and social life of the old Uyghur city. It is one of the largest mosques in Chine, capable of welcoming several thousand worshippers during Friday prayers and Islamic celebrations.

Quick facts and essential information

• Entrance : paid admission for non-Muslims (rates to be confirmed on site)
• Dress code : modest clothing is mandatory; women must cover their hair and shoulders
• Footwear : shoes must be removed before entering the prayer hall
• Prayer access : the prayer hall is closed to non-Muslims during services
• Recommended duration : 30 to 45 minutes for the courtyard and exterior areas

What to see

The mosque is organized around a vast interior courtyard planted with centuries-old trees. The main prayer hall, supported by intricately carved wooden columns, can accommodate thousands of worshippers. The main façade, painted in vibrant yellow, is framed by two minarets and a monumental gateway adorned with geometric patterns typical of Central Asian Islamic architecture.

History and context

Founded around 1442 under the Ming dynasty, the mosque has been enlarged several times over the centuries. Its name, "Id Kah," means "place of celebration and prayer" in Uyghur. Today, it remains the spiritual centre of Kashgar's Uyghur community and a powerful symbol of the cultural identity of Xinjiang region.

Highlights of your visit

Friday prayers

Each Friday, thousands of worshippers gather in the courtyard and on Id Kah Square. The sight is breathtaking, but visitors must remain at a distance and avoid photographing worshippers without their consent.

The façade and monumental gateway

The entrance gate, tall and flanked by minarets, constitutes the iconic image of Kashgar. The tilework and Quranic inscriptions deserve careful observation.

The interior courtyard

The old trees that shade the courtyard create an atmosphere of calm, contrasting with the bustle of the outer square. This is where worshippers gather before and after prayers.

Etiquette and visiting rules

• Dress modestly: shoulders and knees covered for everyone.
• Women must wear a headscarf; wraps are sometimes available at the entrance.
• Remove your shoes before entering the prayer hall.
• Avoid photographing worshippers at prayer without their explicit consent.
• Speak in hushed tones and maintain a respectful demeanor at all times.
• Access to certain areas is restricted or prohibited for non-Muslims depending on prayer times.

Photography tips

Morning light, before 9 a.m., bathes the yellow façade in an ideal golden hue. Position yourself on Id Kah Square to frame the monumental gateway with the minarets. In late afternoon, low-angle light brings out the relief of the ornaments. Avoid photographing the interior of the prayer hall during services.

Location and access

The Id Kah Mosque is located on the central square of the same name, in the heart of Kashgar's old city. It is accessible on foot from most hotels in the historic centre. The old Uyghur city (Kashgar old city) extends directly around the square. The Abakh Khoja mausoleum (Abakh Khoja mausoleum) is located a few kilometres to the northeast, accessible by taxi or local bus.

Nearby attractions

• Kashgar old city — a maze of rammed-earth alleyways, artisan workshops, and traditional Uyghur houses to explore on foot.
• Abakh Khoja mausoleum — a 17th-century Islamic funerary complex and one of Xinjiang's most important sacred sites.
• Kashgar Sunday Grand Bazaar — a lively weekly market where herders, merchants, and artisans from across the region converge.