Tourist attractions

Registan Square

Region: Samarkand

Cultural Heritage

A treasure trove of Islamic architecture surrounded by three madrasahs. The night view is a must-see.

Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum

Region: Samarkand

Cultural Heritage

A mausoleum where Emperor Timur and his clan rest, with an impressive iridescent dome.

Itchan Kala

Region: Khiva

Cultural Heritage

The walled old city of an oasis city, registered as a World Heritage site.

Kalyan Minaret

Region: Bukhara

Cultural Heritage

A magnificent 47m-high minaret also called the 'Tower of Death'.

Tashkent Metro

Region: Tashkent

Modern Architecture

A running museum decorated with marble and mosaics.

Charvak Reservoir

Region: Tashkent Province

Nature

An emerald green artificial lake where marine sports can be enjoyed.

Nurata Mountains Yurt Camp

Region: Navoiy Province

Nature

Stay in nomadic mobile dwellings, yurts, and experience starry skies and camel riding.

Shah-i-Zinda Necropolis

Region: Samarkand

Cultural Heritage

A necropolis with continuous deep blue tiles.

Fergana Valley Rishtan Pottery Village

Region: Fergana Province

Cultural Experience

Experience blue glaze pottery painting that has continued for 1000 years.

Aral Sea Ship Graveyard

Region: Muynak

Industrial Ruins

A symbolic spot of environmental problems with rusty fishing boats lined up on the dry seabed.

Suggested itineraries

Golden Silk Road Circuit

Duration (days): 8

Highlights: Tashkent, Samarkand, Shakhrisabz, Bukhara, Khiva

A classic route efficiently touring the three major World Heritage cities combining high-speed rail and domestic flights.

Desert and Oasis Experience

Duration (days): 5

Highlights: Nurata Mountains yurt stay, Aral Sea Muynak, Karakum Desert drive

An eco-tour learning about nomadic culture, desolate desert landscapes, and salt lake environmental issues.

Travel tips

  • Japanese nationals do not need a visa for tourism within 30 days (as of 2024).
  • US dollar new bills are easiest to exchange for cash.
  • Taxis often do not have meters; negotiate fares before boarding.
  • Spring (Apr-May) and autumn (Sep-Oct) are the best seasons for travel.
  • Refrain from photography inside mosques during worship and remove shoes before entering.
  • Tap water is not drinkable; purchase bottled water.
  • Women should wear conservative clothing.
  • Domestic train reservations are recommended; high-speed train 'Afrosiyob' can be booked online.
  • Rural roads may be congested during cotton harvest season (Sep-Oct).
  • SIM cards can be purchased immediately at airports or telecom company shops.