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Horse Gridlock: Xinjiang Village Overwhelmed by Tourists
7 Sep
Summary
- Qiongkushitai village faces horse traffic jams due to rising tourist numbers.
- A popular TV drama significantly boosted travel interest in Xinjiang.
- Young college graduates are returning to develop local tourism businesses.
The village of Qiongkushitai in Northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region is now famous for its unique tourist traffic jams, not of cars, but of horses. Situated in the Tianshan Mountains, the village serves as a gateway to the Wusun Ancient Trail, a historic route. This surge in popularity is partly attributed to a recent TV drama that highlighted northern Xinjiang's scenic landscapes.
Many young college graduates, like Ars, have returned to Qiongkushitai, opting to contribute to their hometown's development. They have renovated homes into profitable homestays and established businesses like coffee shops and cultural experiences. This influx of returning youth revitalizes the local economy.
Tourism in Qiongkushitai has seen significant growth, with nearly 600,000 visitors recorded by early August this year. Local cooperatives now manage over 500 horses, generating millions in revenue. Despite the short tourist season, limited by the mountain climate to about five months, the village is embracing its newfound fame and economic opportunities.
