Raphael Oni
Our journey to Jiayuguan City began on a Xiamen Airline flight from Beijing, marking the start of an unforgettable adventure. As we disembarked, a warm reception awaited us – a group of friendly locals greeted us with bright smiles and open arms.
From the airport, we embarked on a scenic drive to our hotel, where a sumptuous lunch awaited us. We were honored to be joined by officials from the city, led by Wang Xiaohu, the Deputy Mayor. The warm hospitality and gracious welcome set the tone for our visit, and we were eager to explore the city’s hidden treasures.
As we savored the local cuisine, our hosts shared with us the rich history and cultural significance of Jiayuguan City. Named after the famous Jiayu Pass, the city has been an important gateway to the western frontier of China since the Ming Dynasty. Its strategic location has made it a vital transportation hub, connecting the ancient Silk Road, the New Asia-Europe Continental Bridge, and the Silk Road Economic Belt.
Our exploration of the city revealed its stunning natural beauty, impressive infrastructure, and modern architecture. We marveled at the snow-capped mountains surrounding the city, the lush greenery that thrives in every corner, and the sleek skyscrapers and bustling shopping districts.
As we delved deeper into the city, we discovered that Jiayuguan has earned an impressive array of prestigious titles, including China’s Top Tourist City, National Model Sanitary City, and National Environmental Protection Model City. It’s clear that the city is dedicated to creating a thriving and attractive modern socialist metropolis that excels in all areas.
Despite its many achievements, Jiayuguan remains committed to advancing social governance and enhancing the well-being of its residents. Our hosts shared with us the city’s vision for the future, one that prioritizes seamless industry-city integration, robust local-enterprise collaboration, urban-rural harmony, and green development.
As the sun began to set on our first day in Jiayuguan, we couldn’t help but feel a sense of excitement and wonder. This city, nestled in the heart of China’s western frontier, is a true gem, waiting to be discovered. And as we settled into our hotel, we couldn’t wait to see what the next day would bring.
