Kashgar natives open homes, hearts to immersive travelers

Renovation of ancient city's old town provides locals with more opportunities to benefit from Xinjiang's tourism boom

A cursory glance at any guide to Kashgar will undoubtedly advise a stroll through the ancient city's labyrinthine alleys and loess mound mudstone buildings, and to take tea at a 100-year-old teahouse.

But for a truly authentic experience in this oasis city, which lies in the south of the Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region, put down that book and instead turn to those who know it best - the people who call it home.