Nestled in the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region's Kanas region, Hemu Village offers a rare glimpse into the traditions of the Tuvan Mongolian ethnic group. Once accessible only by horseback, this forested valley of log cabins now welcomes thousands of visitors annually, creating both opportunities and challenges for its 1,400 residents.
Ou Donghua, a Tuvan woman born and raised in Hemu, recalls childhood winters when supplies arrived by sled. Today, she manages a homestay while teaching visitors about her people's unique throat-singing traditions and birch bark crafts. "Tourism lets us share our culture," she says, "but we must protect what makes us special."
Local authorities report a 300% increase in visitors since 2015, driven by social media exposure of the village's alpine meadows and traditional wooden dwellings. While tourism revenue has funded modern schools and healthcare facilities, some residents express concerns about commercialization altering traditional lifestyles.
Cultural preservation efforts are gaining momentum. The village recently established a living museum where elders demonstrate traditional felt-making and hunting techniques. Meanwhile, sustainable tourism initiatives limit daily visitor numbers during peak seasons.
As China's domestic tourism market continues expanding, Hemu's story reflects broader conversations across Asia about balancing economic development with cultural preservation. For travelers seeking authentic experiences, the village offers a compelling case study in cultural resilience.
