Historic links

For many Chinese tourists the deep historic connections between China and Central Asia are a significant draw.

Tales and depictions of the celebrated monk and traveler Xuan Zang (602-664) and the missions of the diplomat and explorer Zhang Qian, an envoy in the Han Dynasty (202 BC-220 AD) to the West, can be found in local museums, Yu said.

"You'll even come across street artists painting the story of Zhang on hand fans," she said. "In China, such scenes are rare these days, but here they continue to keep these stories alive. It's a unique moving experience, unlike anything in Europe or the Middle East."

Yang Hongchao, 35, an algorithm engineer in Shanghai, also chose Central Asia as an overseas travel destination following the pandemic.

"Growing up in Xinjiang I was familiar with the Tianshan Mountains in China but curious about their extension into Central Asia," Yang said.

"Even though we Chinese are right next to Central Asia, its countries are largely a mystery for us. So I decided to spend three months exploring them.

"Central Asia's landscapes are stunning and often underestimated. The people are friendly, and home-stays in Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan offer a unique opportunity to experience local life. This has left a lasting impression on me. Some of my friends now want to follow in my footsteps."

Ardak Akymhan, 35, from Hami, Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region, who has lived in Almaty for more than 10 years, said the number of Chinese tourists to Kazakhstan this year has increased sharply.

"Last year, few companies needed bilingual guides, but now one company alone is recruiting 50 to 100 Chinese-speaking guides," said Ardak, who has been a Chinese tour guide in the capital city for two years.

She attributes the growing number to the visa-free policy and the promotion of Kazakh culture on Chinese social media platforms such as Douyin and Xiaohongshu.

"Previously few Chinese regarded Kazakhstan as a travel destination. They're now being attracted by the great scenery and cultural riches they see on social media," she said.

Cai Jiaxin, 32, who has worked in tourism for nine years, said that as early as 14 years ago the shoots of blossoming tourism in Central Asia were beginning to appear.