Raphael Oni
As a proud alumnus of the China International Press Communication Center (CIPCC), I was honored to receive an invitation to cover the annual Two Sessions in Beijing. This prestigious event brings together China’s top leaders and lawmakers to discuss the country’s development and future.
I was joined by 15 fellow CIPCC alumni from around the world, and together we embarked on a journey of discovery. Our first week was spent attending the Two Sessions, where we gained valuable insights into China’s governance model and development strategies.
A New Adventure Unfolds
After an intense week of reporting, we were treated to a surprise announcement by CIPCC and the Foreign Office of Gansu Province. We would be embarking on an adventure to explore the ancient Silk Road in Gansu Province.
Our excitement was palpable as we boarded the flight to Lanzhou, the capital city of Gansu Province. We were eager to trade the hustle and bustle of Beijing for the rugged beauty and rich history of Gansu.
Jiayuguan: The Western Terminus of the Great Wall
Our first stop was Jiayuguan, a city famous for its ancient fort, which marked the western terminus of the Great Wall of China. As we walked along the fort’s crumbling walls, we felt a sense of awe at the engineering prowess of the ancient Chinese.
Dunhuang: A Oasis Town on the Silk Road
From Jiayuguan, we traveled to Dunhuang, an oasis town nestled in the Gobi Desert. This ancient city was a major stopover for merchants and travelers on the Silk Road, and its rich cultural heritage is still evident today.
We spent hours exploring the Mogao Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its stunning Buddhist murals and sculptures. The caves, carved into the sandstone cliffs, date back to the 4th century and are a testament to the region’s rich cultural diversity.
Camel Riding and Desert Adventures
No trip to Dunhuang would be complete without a camel ride through the desert. We climbed onto majestic Bactrian camels, feeling a mix of excitement and trepidation as we set off into the dunes.
The desert landscape stretched out before us, an endless expanse of golden sand and rocky outcrops. As we rode, we felt a deep sense of connection to the ancient traders and travelers who had traversed this same route centuries ago.
Reflections on a Journey
As I reflect on our journey, I am struck by the rich cultural heritage and breathtaking natural beauty of Gansu Province. From the ancient fortifications of Jiayuguan to the stunning murals of Dunhuang, every stop on our journey revealed a new facet of China’s complex history.
I am grateful to CIPCC and the Foreign Office of Gansu Province for this incredible opportunity to explore the ancient Silk Road. This journey has not only deepened my understanding of China’s history and culture but has also forged lasting bonds with my fellow travelers.
