On the western edge of the Chinese mainland, Yanhu Township in Ngari, Xizang, has long sat at the crossroads of salt flats and alpine plateaus. For centuries, the millennia-old Salt-and-Sheep Route connected nomadic herders with salt traders, weaving culture and commerce across rugged terrain.
Today, a new chapter is unfolding. Local cooperatives report a 60 percent surge in online sales of artisanal salt and wool products, fueled by social media campaigns and e-commerce platforms. Meanwhile, visitor numbers climbed 40 percent this year, as sustainable travel enthusiasts and digital nomads seek immersive experiences off the beaten path.
Young entrepreneurs are turning traditional yurts into eco-friendly glamping sites, blending solar power with age-old hospitality. Data from regional bureaus show the launch of 20 small businesses in the past 12 months, including craft workshops and guided cultural tours that highlight local Uygur and Tibetan heritage.
Tech-driven solutions are also reshaping the trade route. A mobile app now maps salt springs and herding paths, while real-time weather data helps herders optimize grazing schedules. These innovations underscore a broader trend: weaving technology into tradition to boost resilience and income.
As the Salt-and-Sheep Route thrives anew, it showcases how global citizens can honor ancient legacies while driving sustainable economic growth. From Xizang’s plateaus to screens worldwide, this revival is a story of community ingenuity, data-driven insights, and a fresh perspective on heritage tourism.
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Millennia-old 'Salt-and-Sheep Route' thrives with new vitality
cgtn.com
