Hello everyone, this is Sugiura, the editor-in-chief of Ashu Travel, a travel agency specializing in Central Asia.

In this article, we will introduce Kyrgyzstan, a country that is not well known but is actually full of charm.

If you’re wondering “Where is Kyrgyzstan?”, or “What kind of country is it?”, please don’t worry. We’ll give you the basic information you need to know to make your visit even more enjoyable, including the spectacular scenery of the mountains and lakes, and the unique culture that mixes different cultures!

Kyrgyzstan may not have an ocean, but it has magnificent nature and a fascinating culture. Let’s take a look at some of its charms!

Where is Kyrgyzstan? First, some basic information

First, we will briefly introduce the location, national flag, area and population of Kyrgyzstan.

Location: Here! Central Asia’s “Hidden Nagano”

Kyrgyzstan is a landlocked country surrounded by China, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan and Tajikistan. It is located in the middle of the Eurasian continent and, although it has no sea, it does have beautiful lakes.
Most of the country is mountainous, and the Tien Shan mountain range dominates the central part of the country, creating a treasure trove of beautiful scenery. It is a slightly rugged mountainous kingdom that is perfect for hiking and outdoor activities!

Personally, I think Nagano is similar to places that have beautiful lakes without the sea, or places that are rich in nature and where it is fun to enjoy the outdoors.

What is the identity of the mysterious sun on the Kyrgyz flag?

The flag of Kyrgyzstan is a yellow sun with a strange shape on a red background. If you count the rays of the sun, there are 40 of them, and it is said that they represent the 40 ancient tribes of Kyrgyzstan.

And if you look at the center of the sun, you’ll see a pattern with a strange shape. This is called a tunduk, and it represents the ceiling of a nomad’s tent (yurt).

キルギスの人にとって、トゥンドゥクは家族や宇宙とのつながりを表す大切なもの。自然とともに生きてきた彼らの歴史が表れています。

If you visit the area, be sure to spend some time in a yurt! You can experience the lives of the Kyrgyz people.

If you compare the area and population of Kyrgyzstan with Japan, what do you get?

Kyrgyzstan is approximately 198,500㎢ in area, which is about half the size of Japan. The population is also very small, at around 6.5 million, which is about 5% of the population of Japan. If the population of Japan is 100, then the population of Kyrgyzstan is about 5.

Because there are few people for the size of the country, there are many quiet places, perfect for relaxing. Compared to other countries, there are also few tourists at scenic spots, and there are places where you might think “Is this place reserved?”.

We also recommend that you enjoy the feeling of a little luxury by having the magnificent nature all to yourself.

What kind of culture is Kyrgyzstan?

Next, we will introduce the culture, religion and language of Kyrgyzstan.

A unique hybrid culture of Asia and Russia

Kyrgyzstan has long been home to nomadic people. It prospered through trade on the Silk Road and was annexed by the Russian Empire, so it is a place where many different cultures have come together.

For example, in the capital city of Bishkek and around Lake Song Kol, you can see strange buildings and scenery that seem to be a mixture of Asian and Middle Eastern styles. Please come and experience the atmosphere, which is different from that of other Asian countries.

Is religion strict in Kyrgyzstan?

The main religion in Kyrgyzstan is Islam, but there are also people who follow Christianity or other religions.

When you think of Islam, you might think “prayer, clothing, and food rules seem strict”, but the degree of religious observance varies from country to country and region to region. Kyrgyzstan, which has a diverse cultural background, also has its own rules.

For example, in Islam, women cover their heads and bodies with a piece of cloth called a hijab, but in Kyrgyzstan, you can see many women who don’t wear hijabs. When you think that it is relatively loose, you need a hijab when you enter a mosque, and you never eat pork.

Being able to experience these cultural differences while sightseeing is also one of the charms of Kyrgyzstan.

What language is spoken in Kyrgyzstan? Is English understood?

The official language of Kyrgyzstan is Kyrgyz, and the official language is Russian. In tourist areas of large cities, you may be able to get by with English, but basically you should assume that it will not be very useful. If you learn some simple greetings and phrases in Kyrgyz or Russian that you can use when traveling, you will be able to enjoy communicating with the locals.

As mentioned at the beginning of this article, the Kyrgyz word for “hello” is “Саламатсызбы (salamatsyzbı)”. We use it in this corner every time, so please make sure to remember it.

A quick introduction to three of Kyrgyzstan’s classic tourist spots

There are so many places to visit in Kyrgyzstan that I want to recommend. I want to tell you about them all, but this time I’ll introduce three of the classic places in a simple way.

Lake Issyk-Kul, the “Pearl of Tien Shan”, which is many times the size of Lake Biwa

Lake Issyk-Kul is the world’s second largest high mountain lake. It is said to be about 9 times the size of Lake Biwa. What is most amazing about it is its clarity. It is said to be the second clearest lake in the world after Lake Baikal in Russia, and its beauty has been called the “Pearl of the Tian Shan”. You can also enjoy taking photogenic photos.

It is also known for its many high-class hotels and spas, making it the perfect destination for a trip where you can enjoy a resort atmosphere.

Songkhla Lake, a popular summer destination with its spectacular scenery and tranquility

Located at an altitude of approximately 3,016 meters above sea level, Songkhla Lake is a tranquil world where the only sounds you hear are the wind, the sound of livestock and the sound of your own footsteps. The scenery changes every few hours, showing a different face each time you visit: the lake surface reflecting the sky during the day, the sky taking on a magical hue at dusk, and a star-filled sky at night.

Access is limited to the summer months, as the roads are blocked by snow and ice from May to August. It feels like a special experience. During this time of year, the nomads spend their time in traditional mobile tents (yurts), and the scenery around the lake is like a picture, with sheep and horses grazing in the fields.

Let’s forget about our daily lives and experience a special time at Songkhla Lake, where you can become one with nature.

The best of both worlds: the capital city of Bishkek and the surrounding area

Bishkek is the capital of Kyrgyzstan, and it is packed with tourist attractions. It’s a “just right” city where you can enjoy both nature and the city.

In the city center, there are many places to see, such as the “Central Mosque”, which has a gorgeous design like a castle, the “State Museum”, where you can learn about the magnificent history of Kyrgyzstan, and the lively “Osh Bazaar”. If you go to the suburbs, there is the “Buran Tower”, which has high historical value, and the “Ala-Archa National Park”, where you can experience the great outdoors.

This is an area that is easy for beginners to enjoy, with both walking around the city and nature.

Is traveling in Kyrgyzstan dangerous? Is it safe? Information on public safety that you might be concerned about

When I talk to people I know about Kyrgyzstan, they say things like “Isn’t Kyrgyzstan dangerous?” and “I’ve read that it’s dangerous on the internet”. It’s true that there are some dangerous areas, but the security situation actually varies greatly from place to place.

The security situation in tourist areas is different from that near the border.

According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website, as of November 2024, certain areas, including the capital city of Bishkek, are at “Level 1: Exercise due caution”, but the security situation in tourist areas is relatively good.

I have traveled to nearly 20 countries, and in Europe and America I have been in dangerous situations many times in popular tourist destinations. Compared to that, I have a calm impression of Japan. Of course, you should avoid walking alone at night or acting without a plan, but you won’t necessarily be a victim of crime if you walk around the city, and you can enjoy your trip as long as you take basic precautions.

However, you should be careful in border areas and the second largest city Osh. According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website, the danger level is 2 or 3. Check the latest security information and avoid unnecessarily approaching areas with a high danger level.

How can I avoid trouble?

To enjoy Kyrgyzstan safely, we recommend that you take the same basic precautions as you would for any other overseas trip.

For example, not just in Kyrgyzstan, but in tourist destinations overseas, pickpockets are likely to occur in places with large crowds. Try to avoid wearing clothes that make it obvious that you are a tourist, and carry your valuables inside your clothes to prevent them from being stolen straight away.

Also, this is also happening in countries other than Kyrgyzstan, but taxis that approach you at the airport are likely to be overcharging you. We recommend using a taxi app (Yandex GO in Central Asia) or using a tour that includes airport transfers.

How much does a trip to Kyrgyzstan cost, and how long can I stay?

When choosing Kyrgyzstan for an overseas trip, you may be concerned about the cost and the number of days you will be staying there.

Prices in Kyrgyzstan are cheaper than in Japan.

Prices in Kyrgyzstan have risen compared to 10 years ago, but they are still much cheaper than in Japan. In particular, food and transport costs are low, sometimes less than half the price in Japan. For example, a meal at a local restaurant costs around 500-1,000 yen, and a taxi ride starts at around 100-200 yen.

If you save on accommodation costs and get good deals on air tickets, your travel expenses will be more reasonable.

Do I need a visa?

Japanese tourists do not need a visa to visit Kyrgyzstan for up to 60 days! You can enjoy your trip without any formalities. You could make it a week-long trip to enjoy horse riding and lakes, or you could stay for a month and spend your time leisurely while working as a nomad.

Let’s go on a trip to fully enjoy the charms of Kyrgyzstan!

Kyrgyzstan offers spectacular views of mountains and lakes, and a unique culture where nomadic and other cultures intersect. You can either relax surrounded by nature, or discover something new by experiencing the local culture. Because it is still relatively unknown, you can have a very special experience. Why not choose Kyrgyzstan as your next travel destination and experience this fascinating country to the full?

Recommended Tours by Ashu Travel

If you want to enjoy the spectacular scenery and horse riding on your first trip to Kyrgyzstan, we recommend the “Lake Song Köl Tour”.

You can enjoy horse trekking in Song Köl and also experience staying in a traditional yurt. This is a locally-based tour planned and held by Kyrgyz people, so please enjoy the full charm of Kyrgyzstan.

大自然に恵まれた神秘的な絶景湖ソンクル湖をめぐる5泊6日のツアー

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