Urumqi (TDI): China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region has launched six new scenic highway routes as part of a sweeping effort to promote tourism and improve travel infrastructure across the region’s vast and diverse landscapes.
According to the regional transport department, the government has invested 10.7 billion yuan (approximately $1.5 billion) to construct 965 kilometers of roads tailored for tourism.
The newly unveiled routes are designed to connect travelers with some of Xinjiang’s most iconic natural features, including snow-covered mountains, expansive grasslands, dense forests, tranquil lakes, sprawling deserts, and historic oases.
Read More: China Sees Tourism Boom Over Dragon Boat Holiday
Officials said the new roads are a key component of Xinjiang’s evolving “fast entry, slow travel” tourism model, one that prioritizes smooth access to the region coupled with immersive, leisurely exploration once inside.
“The highway network is being built to link major tourist attractions that are often far apart, creating a seamless self-driving tourism experience,” the transport department stated.
Read More: PTDC, China Culture Center Discuss Tourism, Cultural Ties
In recent years, Xinjiang has ramped up development of a comprehensive transportation grid aimed at enhancing travel and tourism.
Farkhund Yousafzai is an Associate Editor at The Diplomatic Insight.
