Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region

Xinjiang is one of China's largest regions, encompassing vast deserts like the Taklamakan, high mountains, and oasis cities. The region is a cultural crossroads with Uyghur, Kazakh, and other ethnic minorities who have preserved distinct traditions and cuisines. The historic Silk Road passes through, connecting to Central Asia. Urumqi is the modern capital while ancient cities like Kashgar and Khotan preserve traditional character. The landscape ranges from stark desert to mountain peaks.