When 15 foreign journalists traded headlines for hands-on experiences in China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, they didn’t just break news – they broke stereotypes. Over nine days, they swapped notebooks for dance scarves and discovered a world where ancient Uygur traditions meet 21st-century innovation.
From Skepticism to Sand Therapy 🏜️
Their journey began with hot sand therapy sessions – a centuries-old wellness practice where locals bury visitors in sun-baked dunes. 'I thought it’d be gimmicky,' admitted one reporter, later praising its 'surprisingly zen vibes.'
Cultural Beats Meet Modern Streets 🕺
Vibrant group dances in Kashgar’s old town showed how traditional music remains the region’s heartbeat. But the real surprise? State-of-the-art goji berry farms using AI-powered irrigation – proving Xinjiang’s economy isn’t just about history books.
The Takeaway? 📸
'This trip rewired my understanding,' shared a European correspondent. From high-speed rail networks to night markets buzzing with foodies, the group found a region balancing cultural preservation with ambitious growth.
