At the foot of the Nanshan Mountains in China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Zhou Cheng has crafted a unique sanctuary where melodies meet wilderness. His homestay and campsite near Urumqi offers travelers an immersive escape, blending folk music performances with the rugged beauty of the region known locally as the city's "back garden."
By day, visitors hike through alpine meadows and pine forests. By night, they gather around campfires to strum guitars, play handpan drums, and share songs under star-filled skies. "Music connects people across languages and cultures," Zhou told KhabarAsia. "Here, the mountains amplify every note."
The venture reflects growing interest in experiential tourism across Asia, particularly in lesser-known rural destinations. Business analysts note such initiatives could boost local economies while preserving cultural traditions. For researchers studying cross-cultural exchange, Zhou's mountain retreat offers a living case study in community-building through art.
With travelers from over 30 countries documented in 2023 alone, the site has become an unexpected hub for global connection. For members of the Asian diaspora, the blend of Central Asian musical influences and China's natural landscapes provides both familiarity and discovery.
