Uyghur culture has evolved as a result of significant confluence of geographical, historical and religious factors over a two thousand year period. Geographically the Uyghur have always been at the very centre of eastern and western cultures. Originally nomadic their settling at the hub of the historic Silk Road routes which ran through present day Xinjiang brought to them the eastern and western influences of China, Europe, North Africa, Russia, India and other areas, all going into a fantastic melting pot that became the Uighur culture of today.

Uyghur culture is a rich lifestyle centred around the family, food, dance and music. Uyghur architecture, particularly their religious architecture is quite fine and as reflective of a glorious past.

Uyghur religion has also played a major part in Uyghur culture and has has evolved through several transitions including Shamanism, Manachaeism, Buddhism and even Christianity before Islam became the predominate religion. Each has added indelibly to the richness of Uyghur culture.