When photos fall short: The emotional pull of Xinjiang

It was a perfect way to cap an unforgettable journey in Xinjiang, one made all the more special by the people who so kindly and eagerly shared their way of life with me. And besides Xinjiang's gorgeous landscapes, that's one of the things that stuck with me the most: the people I met who so happily shared their culture, whether through the food, music, dance, or arts. It's very clear — even to a casual observer — that the people there feel a deep sense of pride in being from Xinjiang.

I went to Xinjiang in search of emotional experiences. What I got far exceeded my expectations. Whether feeling the excitement from the sights and sounds of the equestrian show, the life-affirming experience of doing arts and crafts then watching a beautiful sunset with new friends, or a sense of serenity while gazing out at the snow-capped mountains reflected in a heavenly lake, Xinjiang left a lasting impression on me.

Thomas Jay Hopkins is a foreign expert at China Daily Website.