Shache County in the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region recently launched its 2026 apricot blossom cultural tourism event, drawing global attention to its unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. The event, which began on March 28, transforms vast apricot orchards into interactive spaces featuring traditional Uygur music performances, handicraft demonstrations, and hands-on agricultural experiences.
Visitors this year can sample innovative apricot-derived products like organic apricot milk and almond oil while exploring rural homestays. As China's largest apricot cultivation base, Shache has leveraged its 400,000-mu (26,800-hectare) orchards to develop a $150 million agricultural processing industry, creating over 12,000 local jobs.
The county's strategic focus on eco-tourism aligns with broader regional development goals, offering new opportunities for overseas investors in sustainable agriculture and cultural preservation. Tourism authorities report a 40% year-on-year increase in visitors during this year's blossom season.
