Muhammad Asif Noor
Kashgar, an ancient city in the far west of China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, is a land where history, culture, and nature converge to create a captivating and unique travel destination.
Known for its role as a prominent stop on the Silk Road, Kashgar has long served as a crossroads for traders, travelers, and empires.
Today, it is not only a place that holds significant historical value but also an agricultural powerhouse and a burgeoning hub for tourism.
As you embark on a journey through Kashgar, you are immediately struck by the vibrancy of its landscapes and the charm of its people.
This city, surrounded by the towering Pamir Plateau to the west and the Taklamakan Desert to the east, offers a contrasting yet harmonious blend of natural beauty and human ingenuity. It’s a place where tradition meets modernity, and where agriculture and tourism flourish side by side.
A Fertile Oasis of Agricultural Abundance
Kashgar is blessed with abundant sunlight, fertile soil, and an ideal climate for farming, making it one of China’s most prosperous agricultural regions.
In 2024 alone, Kashgar saw the cultivation of 1.165 million mu of open-field vegetables, alongside 335,000 mu of facility-grown crops.
In its effort to expand high-standard vegetable farming, the city has planted 400,000 mu of order vegetables and built an impressive 57,000 greenhouses.
These initiatives aim to push the cultivation area to over 500,000 mu, positioning Kashgar as a premier supplier of vegetables to major cities across mainland China.
The locals take great pride in their green, organic farming, which contributes to the city’s reputation for high-quality produce.
As you walk through the fields, neatly arranged greenhouses brimming with vibrant vegetables stretch as far as the eye can see.
The combination of cutting-edge agricultural techniques and the area’s natural resources has helped Kashgar become a hub of prosperity for its farming communities.
The region is also known for its seasonal crops, particularly its prized “Dinosaur Eggs” (Prunus simonii). These fruits, which combine the fragrant essence of apricot with the sweetness of plum, are a local favorite.
Their agate-like flesh, thin skin, and incredible sweetness are made possible by the ample sunlight and dry climate of the region.
With over 500 tons demanded annually, these fruits are an essential part of the local economy and a sweet treat for visitors.
In autumn, a unique surprise awaits travelers: locally farmed Australian freshwater lobsters.
Despite Kashgar’s desert surroundings, the Yarkant River and the snowmelt from the Tianshan Mountains create an oasis in Makit County where these plump, flavorful lobsters thrive.
Their popularity has soared in recent years, becoming a sought-after dish in households across the region.
Not to be overlooked, Paha Taikele Township is known for its rich crab harvest.
Thanks to the area’s excellent water quality and lush aquatic plants, the crabs grown here are renowned for their robust flavor and tender meat, offering another seasonal delicacy that draws in both locals and tourists alike.
Cultural Landscape of Kashgar
Kashgar is not just about agriculture—it’s a city steeped in history and culture, making it an essential stop for travelers seeking to explore China’s rich heritage.
The ancient city, with its ivy-covered walls and traditional Uyghur architecture, transports you back in time to the days when it was a bustling center of trade on the Silk Road.
Wandering through the streets of the old city, you’ll encounter vibrant markets filled with local crafts, rich aromas of traditional Uyghur cuisine, and the sounds of merchants haggling over prices.
The local culture is still very much alive, and Kashgar’s cultural and creative products are a testament to the region’s deep-rooted traditions.
Exquisite Adras silk scarves, handcrafted pottery, and elegant jewelry are just a few of the items that visitors can take home as souvenirs of their time in this enchanting city.
Kashgar’s vibrant cultural scene extends to its tourism infrastructure as well.
With 69 A-level scenic spots, 103 travel agencies, 247 tourist homestays, and 826 cultural and entertainment venues, there is no shortage of things to do and see.
The ancient city of Kashgar has undergone a renaissance in recent years, with events such as the grand opening ceremony of the city showcasing the history and culture of the Silk Road through a mix of narration, dance, acrobatics, and traditional performances.
Visitors from around the world are invited to experience this lively blend of the past and present, and to discover the hidden stories that the city has to offer.
Tourism in Kashgar- A Flourishing Industry
In 2023, Kashgar welcomed over 33.22 million domestic and international tourists, generating a staggering tourism revenue of 27.346 billion yuan.
The city’s unique combination of cultural tourism, summer retreats, desert adventures, and self-driving tours has made it one of China’s top travel destinations.
From historical landmarks to outdoor adventures, there’s something for everyone in Kashgar.
For the adventurous traveler, the Pamir Plateau offers breathtaking vistas of glaciers, vast grasslands, and starry skies.
Standing under the clear night sky, with the ancient glaciers in the distance, you can experience a sense of awe that few places in the world can provide.
The plateau’s lakes, fed by glacial meltwater, mirror the snow-capped peaks, creating a serene and otherworldly beauty.
Yengisar, another stop along the ancient Silk Road, offers its own array of attractions.
The Yengisar South Lake Tourism Resort, a national 4A-level scenic area, boasts pristine natural resources, including lakes, rivers, and wetlands.
The nearby Muziluke Wetland Park, recognized as a national 3A-level tourist attraction, offers visitors a chance to explore untouched ecological wonders.
And for those interested in local craftsmanship, Yengisar Pottery Village provides a hands-on experience of traditional pottery-making techniques that have been passed down for generations.
In Shufu, adventure-seekers will find the majestic Mushi Tianmen Mountain, a site known for its stunning canyon views and thrilling Hero Slope, an adrenaline-filled attraction for those brave enough to tackle it.
Meanwhile, Zepu Water Town, a national 5A-level scenic spot, enchants visitors with its golden poplar forests and tranquil lakes.
In the autumn, the area becomes a sea of vibrant colors, with boardwalks meandering through forests and across shimmering waters.
For a more leisurely experience, visitors can explore the Bachu Red Sea, a national 4A-level scenic area where you can stroll through poplar forests or take a peaceful boat ride on the lake.
Whether you seek adventure or relaxation, Kashgar offers a diverse range of experiences that cater to every type of traveler.
A Prosperous Future Rooted in Tradition
As Kashgar continues to grow and prosper, it remains firmly rooted in its traditions while embracing modern advancements.
Fueled by high-quality produce, its agricultural industry supports local livelihoods and the broader Chinese market. At the same time, the tourism industry is thriving, drawing millions of visitors each year to experience the region’s natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.
Kashgar is more than just a city—it’s a symbol of resilience, growth, and the harmonious coexistence of nature and human endeavour.
Whether you’re walking through its ancient streets, exploring its scenic spots, or tasting its seasonal delicacies, Kashgar offers a journey that is as rich and diverse as the land.
This is a place where every season brings new wonders, every corner tells a story, and every visitor leaves with a deeper appreciation for the unique beauty of Kashgar.
*The writer is Founder of Friends of BRI Forum, Co-Founder of the Alliance of China-Pakistan Research Centres and Senior Fellow at the Centre for CPEC Studies at Kashi University, China.
