Thousands of people talk about Xinjiang丨Enter the ancient city of Xibo and experience the unique folk customs
On October 13th, the sounds of the grand Taiping drum resonated through the air as the gates of the Xibe Ancient Town in the Chabuchar Xibe Autonomous County slowly opened. Dressed in Qing Dynasty attire, the town’s “governor” welcomed online influencers and renowned authors from around the world, part of the “Ten Thousand Voices of Xinjiang” initiative, into the historic site.
Located in the Sunzhaqi Niulu Town of the Ili Kazak Autonomous Prefecture, Xibe Ancient Town is a cultural hub that showcases Xibe folk customs. It serves as a multifaceted tourism destination, blending unique urbanization, traditional historical experiences, and recreational activities.
As we step into the bell tower, plaques inscribed with titles like “Eternal Guardians of the Frontier” and “Loyal to the Nation” adorn every level. Xinjiang-based media personality Abduvali Abdurreshit shared his thoughts: “Through the history of the Xibe people’s westward migration, I have felt their unwavering spirit and patriotism, which have remained unchanged despite over two centuries of trials and tribulations. This also highlights how our Chinese nation is a united and loving big family.”
Archery is an essential skill among the Xibe, deeply rooted in their cultural heritage. The influencers explored the archery museum and learned about this tradition from a non-material cultural heritage inheritor.
At the archery range, South Korean content creator Park Da-il eagerly took aim with a bow and arrow. After several attempts—drawing, aiming, and shooting—his skills significantly improved. “I got to experience the unique customs of the Xibe people firsthand, and as I learned about their traditional archery, I found myself captivated by the excellence of Chinese culture,” he remarked.
The experience of archery allowed the influencers to appreciate this ancient skill, while sampling the local delicacy—Xibe big pancake—satisfied their taste buds. The dough, fermented from old leaven and worked through multiple stages, transformed into pancakes that puffed up during cooking, showcasing a beautiful bloom resembling flowers. The side with these bubbles is referred to as “heaven,” while the base is called “earth.” When paired with pickled veggies made from carrots, cabbage, leeks, celery, and bell peppers, Russian broadcaster Lina from Huazhong University found the culinary experience thrilling. “It was delightful. I got to enjoy the Xibe big pancake and even danced with Xibe beauties, gaining valuable insights into their culture and history. It was a unique and enjoyable experience, and I hope to learn more about Xinjiang’s diverse culture,” she expressed.
As the day drew to a close, the online influencers gathered under the towering “Eternal Guardians of the Frontier” structure in Xibe Ancient Town for a group photo, eagerly anticipating their next adventure.