The Filipino Chinese Friendship Association, under its president Danny See, organized a 12-day journey along the Silk Road to promote cultural exchange, heritage appreciation and friendship among participants.
Former Senator Nikki Coseteng, a Filipino-Chinese with roots in Xi’an, China, led the tour.
The trip started with a layover in Beijing before flying to Xinjiang, China’s largest province.
Xinjiang is known for its diverse culture and is strategically located near eight countries: Russia, Afghanistan, India, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Mongolia, Pakistan and Tajikistan.
Participants visited the northern areas of the Silk Road, including Urumqi, the region’s remote capital. They experienced Uyghur culture through traditional dances, songs and local food.
The group traveled along the northern stretch of the Silk Road, the S21 Desert Highway and the Gurbantunggut Desert, seeing impressive rock formations and caravan of camels.
They learned about efforts in desert reforestation to turn parts of the desert into green spaces.
Highlights of the trip included a visit to Wucai Beach on the Irtysh River, known for its colorful valleys and rugged terrain, and Kanas Lake in the Altai Mountains. Kanas Lake is famous for its bright turquoise waters and mystical scenery created by melting glaciers and sunlight. Local legends talk about a water dragon living in its depths, adding mystery to the lake.
The group also visited a Tuva community, where they experienced traditional throat-singing, folk dances and warm hospitality. They learned about the Tuva people’s nomadic history, their crafts and their rich culture.
They explored Demon City in the Junggar Basin near Karamay, known for its wind-shaped rocks that look like castles, sphinxes and mysterious sculptures resembling a sinking Titanic. The landscape is often called “Ghost City” because of its eerie beauty.
The group also experienced the Sayram Lake near the Kazakhstan border. Sitting at 6,790 feet above sea level, the lake is surrounded by snow-capped mountains.
It is famous for its breathtaking views and legends of lovers’ tears that formed the lake, earning it the nickname “the last tear of the Atlantic.” They enjoyed the stunning scenery despite the cold weather, with temperatures dropping to 1°C.
