In the heart of China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, the ancient city of Kashi (Kashgar) is finding a new voice in the digital age through the lens of vlogger Song Yufeng. Known online as "Your Buddy Bay," Song has turned his passion for storytelling into a bridge connecting global audiences to Kashi’s vibrant tapestry of life.
From sunrise over the Id Kah Mosque to the rhythmic clamor of the Grand Bazaar, Song’s short videos capture the essence of a city where Uygur, Han, and other ethnic cultures intertwine. His camera lingers on steaming plates of laghman noodles, artisans hammering copperware, and children laughing in maze-like alleys—scenes that challenge stereotypes and celebrate coexistence.
"Every frame is a love letter to our home," Song told KhabarAsia.com, noting how his 500,000+ followers now include diaspora communities reconnecting with roots and travelers adding Kashi to bucket lists. Economists highlight his indirect impact: tourism-related searches for Xinjiang surged 210% year-on-year after his viral "Night Market Magic" video.
While preserving cultural authenticity, Song’s work also mirrors China’s digital economy boom. His collaborations with local craftspeople have boosted sales of traditional items like doppa hats by 40%, demonstrating how grassroots content creation can drive sustainable development.
As Kashi prepares to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the region’s peaceful liberation this year, stories like Song’s offer a microcosm of modern Xinjiang—where ancient heritage and innovation walk hand in hand.
