Spanning one-sixth of China's territory, the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region offers travelers a staggering diversity of landscapes and cultures. CGTN Digital's Nadim Diab recently completed a two-week odyssey across this northwestern frontier, revealing both its awe-inspiring beauty and logistical realities.
From Silk Road to Heavenly Horses
Diab's journey began in Kashi (Kashgar), where ancient markets still echo with Silk Road history. He then traversed Tulufan's Flaming Mountains – immortalized in the Journey to the West classic – before reaching Zhaosu County's pristine grasslands, home to China's prized equine heritage.
The Scale Challenge
While marveling at Uygur craftsmanship and Kazak nomadic traditions, Diab discovered Xinjiang's defining characteristic: sheer scale. 'The hardest part? Distances between attractions,' he noted, describing 8-hour drives between destinations as both exhausting and rewarding for panoramic views.
Cultural Mosaic
The documentary highlights Xinjiang's ethnic diversity, from bustling bazaars serving hand-pulled noodles to throat-singing performances under snow-capped Tian Shan peaks. Local residents shared stories of cultural preservation alongside modern development.
