Around Aksu, there are many places to eat, drink, and have fun. Here are a few recommendations:

Food:

  1. Aksu’s local noodle dishes: Try the regionally famous handmade noodles at one of the many small restaurants around town.
  2. Kebabs and skewers: Street food stalls serve delicious lamb or beef kebabs, as well as vegetables for vegetarian options.
  3. Uygur cuisine: Enjoy traditional Uygur dishes like kuyrdak (boiled meat in broth) or manti (steamed dumplings).

Drink:

  1. Green tea and milk tea: Popular beverages in Aksu’s cafes and teahouses, perfect for warming up on a cold day.
  2. Fresh fruit smoothies: Many stalls and shops offer refreshing blends made with local fruits like pomegranate or grape.

Fun activities:

  1. Explore the ancient Silk Road city of Kashgar (a 4-hour drive from Aksu): Visit the famous Id Kah Mosque, bustling markets, and historic sites.
  2. Enjoy the scenic views at Tianchi Lake () - a stunning natural lake about an hour’s drive from Aksu.
  3. Attend festivals: Join locals for traditional Uygur folk performances during celebrations like Eid al-Fitr or the International Uyghur Festival.

These are just a few ideas to get you started. Bon appétit, and don’t forget to carry plenty of water when exploring those scenic views!