Urumqi, Xinjiang – When CGTN's Yang Xinmeng saddles up in her latest vlog, she invites viewers on a journey where ancient routes meet modern dreams. Against the sweeping steppes of the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region on the Chinese mainland, she captures a side of the region defined by open skies and galloping beats.
Tracing Silk Road Legacies
At a ranch on the outskirts of Urumqi, the celebrated Akhal-Teke horses—often called "golden steeds" and once the pride of emperors—roam freely. Their sleek coats and graceful strides are living echoes of Silk Road caravans that once linked East and West.
A Budding Equestrian Star
But the spotlight isn't reserved for heritage breeds alone. Among riders of all ages is a remarkable 5-year-old girl who hopped into a saddle at just 18 months. With gleaming eyes and a fearless trot, she embodies a new generation in Xinjiang, where learning to ride is as much about freedom as it is about tradition.
Yang's vlog offers more than a scenic tour; it tells personal stories of laughter, resilience, and community. From children mastering their first trots to trainers sharing age-old techniques, the narrative goes beyond labels, showcasing the human heartbeat at the region's core.
For young global citizens, entrepreneurs, and adventurers alike, this equestrian tale is an invitation to discover Xinjiang beyond the news cycle—where every hoofbeat writes a new chapter in Silk Road history.
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From Silk Road horses to a 5-year-old equestrian star in Xinjiang
cgtn.com
