Urumqi (Wulumuqi), situated on the northern slope of the
Tianshan Mountains is most famous for being the furthest
city in the world from the ocean. A relatively new city
(founded in 1763), the most land locked area in the world
is essentially a modern and drab place, resembling a Russian
industrial town in many ways, with few sights of interest
but a lively resident population who sustain enough intrigue
to hold you here for a day or two. This is also a compulsory
stop in terms of transportation (and has been since the
Silk Road opened) throughout Xinjiang, and the spectacular
Heaven's lake, a day trip from the city, justifies a visit
to this area in itself.
Previously known as Dihua, meaning "Enlightening
and Civilizing", the Chinese renamed the city in 1884
to its present day tag, Wulumuqi. Although the feeling and
atmosphere here is predominantly Uigur, in fact, 80% of
the population are Han Chinese. Long an important trading
center, the Han Chinese population today dominate the industrial
and commercial side of the city, with huge department stores
and factories ruling the skyline here. An exploration of
the older streets and the Uigur area known as Erdaoqioa
provides a more interesting look at the different nationalities
living in the city.
One thing to bear in mind here is the time!
Although officialy run according to Beijing time, residents
actually live life two hours behind Beijing. This does not
however, affect train, plane and bus times, so make sure
you are absolutely sure when you are supposed to leave and
which time zone is being used!
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