“Originally, I thought Karamay was just an oil city, but now I’ve discovered it hosts a highly advanced intelligence computing center,” said one of the participants in the “Thousands of Voices from Xinjiang” initiative. “I learned that the new generation of liquid-cooled data centers has settled in Xinjiang due to its unique geographical advantages. In addition, I found out that in Ili, besides the stunning scenery, there are high-tech agricultural parks growing delicious selenium-rich vegetables.”
Since the launch of the initiative, bloggers and influencers from around the world have been reshaping their perceptions of Xinjiang through their lenses, repeatedly conveying their diverse and vivid experiences with the phrase “I didn’t know.”
Korean food blogger Park Da-yi shared, “As a food content creator, my understanding of Xinjiang was initially limited to its cuisine and landscapes. However, after just a few days here, I’ve not only indulged in amazing food and beautiful views but also learned about the region’s advancements in technology. It’s truly impressive! Now, I can share stories about modern, high-tech Xinjiang with my friends.”
Cultural promoter Zhang Ailing from Thailand, who is visiting Xinjiang for the second time, expressed her fascination at the hydrogen energy port. “The combination of technology and environmental protection here is so appealing. I will showcase information about Xinjiang’s high-tech sector to my friends in Thailand, helping them gain a more nuanced understanding of this enigmatic region. Xinjiang is a place worth visiting again and again.”
Inside a 400-acre smart greenhouse run by Horgos Yuanjiang Agricultural Technology Co., participants were astounded by the industrial-style tomato farming and the palpable sense of technology. Rows of tomato seedlings and towering tomato plants laden with fruits demonstrated an annual output valued at about 120 million yuan.
“Cherry tomatoes and Horgos persimmons are two of their ‘star’ products that are in high demand,” said Li Sanbo, a content creator from Northeast China. After tasting the tomatoes, he noted, “They are juicy and packed with flavor. It reminds me of the tomatoes from my childhood. Unfortunately, there isn’t enough to meet demand—locals are buying them up, and anyone from outside looking to taste them will have to come to Xinjiang!” He quickly asked for the staff’s contact information, eager to promote the delicious tomatoes before the harvest increased.
When discussing Xinjiang, food and scenery are just the beginning, according to blogger Qi Jiyun. “In Karamay, I saw it’s not just an industrial city but a vibrant fashion hub. At the Horgos Port, with its thousand-year-old post station and century-old customs, I witnessed bustling crowds and the thriving landscape of import-export trade. Xinjiang feels even more vibrant and alive in my mind now.”
During this trip, Qi Jiyun’s team captured various aspects, not just food and scenery, but also materials highlighting Xinjiang’s rich history and advanced technology. “When I return, I’ll showcase a real and multifaceted Xinjiang in my travel vlog series ‘Escape from the Office’,” he added.
“I want to tell the world, come and see Xinjiang! It’s not just about the food and beautiful scenery; there are countless surprises waiting for you,” said Lina, a Russian host from Huaqiao University’s “Overseas New Generation,” as she invited people to explore Xinjiang on her social media platform.