Ever wondered what it’s like to walk through the "City of the King"? 🏰 Nestled in northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Yotkan Ancient City is the crown jewel of the Yutian Ancient Kingdom, one of the 36 kingdoms of the Western Regions over 2,000 years ago.
Yotkan—literally meaning "king"—served as the capital of Yutian and stood at the crossroads of ancient Silk Road trades. Though centuries have passed, its ruins still whisper stories of merchants, scholars, and travelers who once filled its streets. It’s like binge-watching a Netflix saga, but live and in 4D! 🎬✨
Today, Bageqi Town in Hotan County has breathed new life into these ruins. Through vibrant storytelling, interactive exhibits, and folk performances, locals and visitors alike can witness how cultural heritage blends with modern creativity. Imagine exploring archaeological finds illuminated by colorful lights or learning ancient crafts from Uygur artisans in open-air workshops. 🎨👩🎨
This revival is more than tourism—it’s a global youth journey in the spirit of "One Home: Shared Future," a campaign celebrating cultural memory and our shared planet. Young voices from around the world are joining the conversation, highlighting why protecting heritage matters now more than ever. 🌍✊
From the millennium-old walls of Yotkan to the vibrant melodies of folk tunes echoing through its gates, every step here is a lesson in resilience and unity. So pack your curiosity, grab your camera, and let Yotkan’s ancient charm rewrite your idea of history. 🗺️📸
Reference(s):
Protection and inheritance – Cultural memory of Yotkan Ancient City
cgtn.com
