Xinjiang is becoming a popular travel destination for people from Hong Kong as tourism groups and travel organizers promote new experiences in the region. Better transport, modern facilities, and stunning natural landscapes are encouraging more visitors to explore the area.
Many travelers say the trips offer a chance to discover a part of China they have never seen before. The region is gaining attention for its mountains, lakes, local culture, and outdoor attractions.
One of those visitors is 16-year-old Hong Kong student Angel Lau Yin-kwan. She had wanted to visit the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region for a long time because it is the birthplace of her favorite mainland Chinese actress, Dilraba Dilmurat.
Lau joined a seven-day educational tour of northern Xinjiang in early July. The trip was part of the Solar Project, a learning program designed to help young people understand different parts of China through travel and cultural activities.
Before the journey, Lau believed Xinjiang was mainly made up of wide grasslands where people still traveled on horseback. Like many first-time visitors, she expected a quiet rural area with limited development.
Her experience quickly changed that view.
She said she was surprised by the region’s modern infrastructure and well-developed transportation network. One of the highlights of her trip was the Guozigou Bridge, a major bridge stretching about 700 meters across a deep valley. The bridge stands around 200 meters above the ground and offers wide views of the surrounding mountains.
Lau also visited Sayram Lake, the highest and largest alpine lake in Xinjiang. The clear blue water, fresh air, and mountain scenery left a strong impression on her. She described the landscape as one of the most beautiful places she had ever seen.
The tour also introduced students to local traditions and cultural heritage. During one activity, Lau created a leather keychain while learning about the region’s leather carving techniques. The hands-on workshop gave students a closer look at traditional craftsmanship that has been passed down through generations.
Educational tours like this are becoming more common as travel organizations expand programs for young people. These visits combine sightseeing with cultural learning, allowing students to experience local history, art, and daily life while exploring famous attractions.
Tourism experts say Xinjiang has become more attractive because of improved roads, bridges, airports, and visitor facilities. These developments have made it easier for both domestic and international travelers to reach popular destinations across the region.
The area’s natural beauty is another major reason for its growing popularity. Snow-covered mountains, green valleys, clear lakes, and open grasslands provide a wide range of experiences for visitors throughout the year. Many travelers also enjoy hiking, photography, local food, and cultural performances.
Travel companies have also increased promotional efforts to introduce Xinjiang to visitors from Hong Kong. Organized group tours, student exchange programs, and seasonal travel packages have encouraged more people to explore destinations that were once less familiar.
For many travelers, the biggest surprise is seeing how modern the region has become while still preserving its cultural traditions. Visitors can experience both impressive engineering projects and long-standing local customs during the same trip.
As more Hong Kong residents visit Xinjiang, interest in the region continues to grow. Student travel programs and guided tours are helping people gain a better understanding of the area’s history, culture, and natural environment.
Tourism leaders believe this trend will continue as more travelers seek meaningful experiences beyond major cities. With its combination of modern infrastructure, breathtaking scenery, and rich cultural heritage, Xinjiang is emerging as an increasingly attractive destination for visitors looking to discover a different side of China.
