Photo show helps Japanese see real Xinjiang

Xinjiang has hosted a cultural and tourism event in Osaka, participated in the Tourism Expo Japan, and contributed artifacts to the Great Silk Road World Heritage Exhibition in Japan.

In 2023, the total trade volume between Xinjiang and Japan reached 1.27 billion yuan, a 31.3 percent increase year-on-year. From January to August this year, the trade volume rose to 1.42 billion yuan, reflecting a 132 percent increase. The growing momentum of economic and trade cooperation between the two sides continues to strengthen.

"Through this photo exhibition, we express our sincere hope to further expand cooperation with Japan in various fields, including economic and cultural exchanges, to promote friendly interactions, enhance mutual trust, and deepen the friendship between the people of both nations," Nuerlan said.

When Japanese people think of Xinjiang, they might envision the Silk Road, camels, and the sound of bells, but the region has seen significant changes in recent years, said Wu Jianghao, Chinese ambassador to Japan.

"Today, Xinjiang serves as a vital Eurasian corridor and a strategic gateway for China's westward opening. The region is rapidly modernizing across various sectors, with sustained economic growth, social harmony and stability, and strong ethnic unity, marking this the best period in its history," Wu said.

In 2023, Xinjiang received 265 million domestic and international tourists, a 117 percent increase year-on-year, and the region is projected to receive over 300 million visitors this year.