Uzbekistan: the next top travel destination for Chinese tourists

As Uzbekistan is located on the ancient Silk Road, Uzbekistan and China's relationship goes back over a thousand years. However, the first visit of a Chinese ambassador to Ferghana, modern-day Uzbekistan dates to 128 B.C. For thousands of years, there has been communication, trade and method exchange between these two nations. In 1991, China recognized the independence of Uzbekistan and started diplomatic relations in 1992. Over the years, the China – Uzbekistan partnership developed and the amount of trade exchange between these nations increased. 

At the same time, the number of Chinese travelers visiting Uzbekistan increased dramatically.  According to the Statistics Agency of Uzbekistan, over 42,000 tourists traveled from China to Uzbekistan in 2023. 

As we know, China has the largest outbound tourism in the world and every year over 100 million people from China travel abroad for tourism reasons. While Thailand, France and the UAE are among the most popular destinations for Chinese travelers, Uzbekistan also has a great tourism potential that could attract travel enthusiasts from China. 

Firstly, Uzbekistan is a convenient country for Chinese travelers, Uzbekistan offers visa-free regime for citizens of China, allowing them to stay up to 10 days in the country. Secondly, there are 50 - 100 direct flights between China and Uzbekistan per week, making it convenient for travelers to visit Uzbekistan any time they want from their preferred airport. 

Talking about the tourism potential of Uzbekistan, the country is known for its unique architecture, fascinating nature and authentic culture. Uzbekistan is home to seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites and thousands of historical and archeological sites. 

Tashkent is the capital of Uzbekistan, and it is known for its modern buildings, beautiful parks, and unique Soviet architecture. It is the most populated city in Central Asia. Some of the city's most visited attractions are Tashkent TV tower, which was once the third tallest tower in the world; Chorsu bazaar, a traditional Uzbek bazaar which takes you back to previous centuries; and The Magic City Park, which is known as the Uzbekistan's Disneyland. Moreover, the Tashkent metro is also a great destination for travelers. Tashkent metro is not just a metro but a museum. Each metro station was carefully designed to represent the unique architecture of Uzbekistan.

Samarkand, the second largest city in Uzbekistan, is known as the oldest city in Central Asia. Although the city is considered to be older, the 2750th anniversary of Samarkand was celebrated in 2007. Samarkand was the capital of the Timurid Empire. Timurid Empire was founded by the national hero of Uzbekistan, Amir Timur in 1370. It was one of the largest empires in history; as historians describe it, "It takes 6 months to travel from the east to the west of the Timurid Empire." During his reign, Amir Timur brought the most talented architects and artists to the city of Samarkand and ordered them to construct beautiful structures. Today, after several centuries, these monuments are still standing in the city of Samarkand, amazing those who spend time in the city. 

Bukhara is another city with an over 2000-year-old history. Along with other cities of Uzbekistan like Samarkand, Tashkent and Kokand, Bukhara also played an important role in the Silk Road. Bukhara was the capital of the Emirate of Bukhara and is a great destination for history enthusiasts. Visitors can explore the castle of the Emir and several architectural monuments.

Among these monuments, there is Minorai Kalon. According to historical texts, Genghis Khan was very impressed to see the size of the tower and did not allow his soldiers to attempt to destroy it. 

Many more cities in Uzbekistan boast unique history and art. Furthermore, Uzbekistan is a great destination for those who are looking for an authentic culture. As we mentioned above, thanks to the Silk Road, Uzbekistan is located at the crossroads of cultures, which contributed to its colorful costumes, mouthwatering foods and beautiful traditions. 

Uzbekistan is also home to different types of handicrafts. The city of Kokand in the Ferghana valley of Uzbekistan is known as the capital of handicrafts and the city hosts international crafts festivals. Kokand and its bordering cities are home to artisans who have been preserving their ancient style of crafting for centuries. Families in Margilan have been producing Adras, silk fabric, for several centuries, while families in Rishtan create beautiful blue ceramics. It is a great destination for those who are interested in hand-made art. 

Nature lovers can also enjoy the unique flora and fauna of Uzbekistan. Zaamin located in the Jizzakh region of Uzbekistan, is known for its mountainous environment and spectacular views. Amirsoy Winter Resort in the Tashkent region was constructed through a partnership with Switzerland, and it is famous for skiing and other winter activities. Visitors can also enjoy Kyzylkum safari which allows them to camp and stay in nomadic yurts in the unique Central Asian desert. Another unique destination is the Aral Sea, which was once the 4th largest lake in the world and then lost more than 90 percent of its water. 

For every traveler, safety is one of the most important factors when choosing a destination. According to the 2024 Safety Perceptions Index, Uzbekistan is the safest country in the world. Furthermore, Uzbekistan received top ranks in several other safety rankings. There are also tourist police in almost every tour attraction who are fluent in multiple foreign languages. Visitors can reach out to them at any time for questions or help. 

Additionally, hospitality is a big part of Uzbek culture. Uzbekistan's location on the ancient Silk Road means the country has a rich history of receiving visitors, including Chinese merchants, who visited Uzbek cities to trade their goods. Local people invited visitors into their homes and treated them very well. Today, people in Uzbekistan are still very hospitable and welcoming towards foreigners. 

Just as in the past, Uzbekistan will welcome Chinese visitors with open arms. Given our countries' shared history, geographic closeness, and the opportunity for cultural exchange, Uzbekistan should be a top tourism destination for Chinese travelers.  Increasing the contact between our nations will only strengthen our historical bond.

The author is from Uzbekistan.

The views don't necessarily reflect those of China Daily.

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