Top 10 Tourist Attractions in Tashkent, the Capital of Uzbekistan, Where Many Cultures and Eras Intersect!

Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan, a country in Central Asia. When thinking about tourism in Uzbekistan, many people may first imagine the ancient city of Samarkand, known as the "Blue City."

However, Tashkent, the capital, has its own unique charm that sets it apart from Samarkand. The city is home to a diverse range of attractions, including Islamic architectural structures from the Silk Road era, exotic locations with a strong Central Asian atmosphere, Soviet-era buildings, and modern constructions built after the Cold War. This blend of different eras and cultures makes Tashkent a fascinating destination.

Here, we introduce ten recommended tourist spots in Tashkent. Check them out and use this guide for your future travels!

1. The Navoi Theater

Navoi Theater is renowned as one of the top venues for performing arts, such as ballet and opera, in Central Asia. Built during World War II, this historic theater was granted the title of "Grand" by the Soviet government, signifying its prestige.

The theater has stood the test of time, even surviving the devastating earthquake that struck Tashkent in 1966 without damage. While much of the city suffered severe destruction, Navoi Theater remained intact and served as a shelter for residents in need.

This event further solidified the theater's significance in the city's history. Today, it stands as a symbol of resilience and cultural heritage, making it a must-visit landmark in Tashkent.

2. Tashkent Metro

You might wonder why a metro system would be considered a tourist attraction, but do not underestimate the Tashkent Metro! Until the Almaty Metro in Kazakhstan opened in 2011, Tashkent was the only city in Central Asia with an underground railway. What makes it special is its incredibly artistic and luxurious design. Each station features grand architecture, with walls and floors made of marble and granite. Ceramic sculptures, stone statues, and chandelier-like lighting fixtures create an atmosphere so magnificent that it hardly feels like a metro station.

Despite its stunning appearance, the metro stations are considered strategic locations, so photography is unfortunately prohibited. Additionally, passengers may be subject to bag checks by police officers upon entry.

3. Independence Square

Located in the center of Tashkent, Independence Square serves as a major landmark surrounded by government and parliamentary buildings. It is also a popular gathering place for locals looking to relax and enjoy the open space.

During the Soviet era, the square was known as Lenin Square, featuring a large statue of Lenin. Today, it is home to a monument of a mother and child, symbolizing Uzbekistan’s independence, along with a globe displaying only Uzbekistan on its map. Spanning 12 hectares, the square is filled with greenery, making it a great spot to take a break while exploring the city.

On national holidays such as Independence Day (September 1) and New Year's Day (January 1), the square becomes the venue for grand celebrations. Visitors can experience live music, street performances, and traditional dances. If you are in Tashkent during a holiday, be sure to visit Independence Square and witness the festivities.

4. Chorsu Bazaar

Chorsu Bazaar is a lively market known for its iconic dome-shaped roof. It serves as the main marketplace for locals, offering a vast selection of fresh vegetables, fruits, processed foods, meats, sausages, bread, sweets, and household goods.

This massive two-story bazaar extends outdoors, creating an energetic and bustling atmosphere filled with the essence of Central Asia. As you wander through the market, enthusiastic vendors will call out to you, making it hard to resist stopping by their stalls. Engaging in bargaining or negotiating bulk purchases can be a fun way to interact with the locals.

Next to Chorsu Bazaar, you will find restaurants serving local cuisine as well as shops selling traditional handicrafts, making it a great place to take a break or pick up souvenirs.

5. Amir Timur Museum

The Amir Timur Museum stands out with its striking blue dome and bright white walls. Opened in 2006, it is a relatively new museum, also known as the Timurid History Museum. Inside, you will find an extensive collection of exhibits related to the Timurid dynasty, which thrived from the 14th to the 16th century. The museum houses more than 3,000 artifacts, including historical documents, paintings depicting scenes from the past, ancient weapons, and coins. It provides a deep insight into Uzbekistan's rich history and the legacy of the Timurid Empire.

Amir Timur, the founder of the Timurid dynasty, is considered the most revered historical figure in Uzbekistan. If you are visiting Tashkent, this museum is a must-see destination.

6. Hazrati Imam Square

Located on the northern edge of Tashkent's old town, Hazrati Imam Square is home to a collection of magnificent Islamic architectural structures, creating an atmosphere that feels like stepping back in time to the city's historic past.

The main attraction of the square is the Hazrati Imam Mosque, named after an 8th-century imam from Tashkent, a revered successor of Muhammad. The mosque features a stunning blue dome and intricate mosaic patterns on the exterior, while the interior is designed with brown brick walls and wooden columns, giving it a cool and serene ambiance.

Another must-visit site within the square is the Quran Museum. This museum houses what is believed to be the world's oldest Quran, dating back to the 7th century. Its enormous size makes it an astonishing sight, unlike any typical holy book.

7. Tashkent Tower

Standing at an impressive height of 375 meters, Tashkent Tower serves as a television and radio broadcasting tower, as well as a telecommunications hub. It holds the title of the tallest structure in Central Asia. Completed in 1981, the tower was designed to withstand earthquakes of up to magnitude 9, a lesson learned from Tashkent's devastating earthquake in the past.

The observation deck is located at 95 meters above ground, offering visitors a breathtaking panoramic view of the city. The mix of modern urban landscapes and historic Islamic architecture creates a striking contrast, making it a memorable sightseeing experience.

Inside Tashkent Tower, visitors can find restaurants serving local Uzbek cuisine, as well as a bar, making it a great place to relax and enjoy a meal while taking in the view.

8. Juma Mosque

Also known as the Friday Mosque, Juma Mosque was built in 819 and is the oldest among the 157 mosques in Tashkent. It is also the third-largest mosque in Uzbekistan. Before the construction of Tashkent Tower, this mosque was the tallest building in the city and the only place from which one could view the entire cityscape.

Unlike many mosques in Uzbekistan that are characterized by blue domes, Juma Mosque stands out with its entirely white exterior, from the walls to the roof, giving it a distinct and refreshing appearance. At night, the mosque is beautifully illuminated, creating a mesmerizing and serene atmosphere.

9. Minor Mosque

Completed in October 2014, Minor Mosque is the newest and one of the largest mosques in Tashkent. Featuring a predominantly white structure adorned with intricate blue, gold, and green mosaic patterns, it is an architectural masterpiece that is steadily gaining popularity as a must-visit attraction in the city. The two towering minarets are particularly impressive, adding to the mosque’s grandeur. Inside, the elaborate decorations, including traditional mosaic designs, gold embellishments, and inscriptions from the Quran and Hadith, create a magnificent and sacred ambiance.

Despite its traditional exterior and interior design, Minor Mosque is equipped with modern facilities. If you have visited many mosques before coming here, you may find its blend of tradition and modernity particularly intriguing.

10. State Museum of History of Uzbekistan

Established in 1876, the State Museum of History of Uzbekistan is the oldest museum in Central Asia. With a collection of over 250,000 artifacts, it offers an extensive display ranging from Stone Age relics to contemporary historical documents. The diverse exhibits narrate the history of Uzbekistan from prehistoric times to the present.

Among the museum’s historically significant artifacts is a trinity of Buddha statues discovered in Termez, a city in southern Uzbekistan. Believed to date back to the pre-Christian era, these statues provide crucial evidence that Buddhism had already reached Uzbekistan at that time. Another highlight of the museum is its vast collection of coins from different periods and regions, offering insight into the evolution of trade and economy in the region.

◎ Summary

Compared to Samarkand, where sightseeing mainly revolves around Islamic architecture and historical sites, the attractions in Tashkent offer a diverse mix of history and culture, each with its own unique charm.

If you think Uzbekistan is too far to visit, think again! Uzbekistan Airways operates direct flights from Narita Airport to Tashkent twice a week, making it more accessible than you might expect.

With its rich history, vibrant culture, and exotic atmosphere, Tashkent is a destination well worth exploring. Be sure to visit and experience it for yourself!

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Top 10 Tourist Attractions in Tashkent, the Capital of Uzbekistan, Where Many Cultures and Eras Intersect!