As our tour to the west continued, the vast expanse of the desert and the ancient relics of the Silk Road revealed a tapestry of wonders and miseries that have captivated travelers for centuries. Drawn by the legend of Crescent Spring, I embarked on this journey, intrigued by how this serene oasis has survived for at least 2000 years in the harsh environment of the Gobi Desert, remaining a shimmering jewel amidst the sand dunes.
The journey to the mystical Crescent Spring was filled with anticipation. This crescent-shaped lake, nestled at the foot of the Mingsha Shan dunes, also known as Echoing-Sand Mountain, has long been a source of fascination. How could a body of water persist for millennia in such an arid region, defying the relentless desert heat? The spring’s water, clear and pure, seemed almost otherworldly, a natural marvel that spoke to the ancient travelers who once sought respite from their arduous journeys.
As other travelers were riding camels to cross the sand dunes, I preferred to tour the Crecent Springs and the Echoing-Sand Mountain. Pavilions were built for centuries on the side of the lake and people could sit in the pavilions to enjoy a cup of tea overlooking the lake in the desert. Girls dressed in the ancient Tang dynasty clothes to take photos or videos with the lake and mountains as the background. More tourists tried to climb to the top of the sand slopes to have a more beautiful view of the lake.
Our next destination was the Caves of the Thousand Buddhas, known as the Mogao Caves. As we stepped into this labyrinth of grottoes, we were greeted by a stunning array of Buddhist art, intricate frescoes, and statues that have stood the test of time. The caves were a testament to the rich cultural and spiritual exchanges that flourished along the Silk Road, where pilgrims, merchants, and artists left their mark. Each cave told a story, depicting scenes of devotion, mythology, and daily life from centuries past. The sheer scale and detail of the artwork left us in awe, a silent tribute to the artisans who painstakingly created these masterpieces.
Visitors are strictly restricted to several thousand a day, and those who wish to tour the caves should register months ahead, otherwise it will be too crowded and will cause damage to the ancient art pieces. Even so, each tourist group can only visit six caves. One mystery unsolved is that how the colors can remain unchanged after one or two thousand years?
Continuing our journey, we arrived at the Jiaohe Ruins in Turpan, a site that sparked many questions and curiosities. This ancient city, built over 2000 years ago, perched on a plateau surrounded by deep valleys, was once a thriving metropolis. The ruins told tales of its once-glorious past, with remnants of temples, houses, and administrative buildings still visible. I couldn’t help but wonder about the people who once inhabited this place. Historical records and archaeological evidence suggest that the early settlers might have been Caucasians before the region gradually came under Chinese influence. This cultural amalgamation is a hallmark of the Silk Road, where East met West, and diverse civilizations coexisted and interacted.
Another marvel awaited us in Turpan – the Karez water system. This ancient irrigation method, consisting of underground channels, was ingeniously designed to transport water from the distant mountains to the arid plains. Walking along the Karez channels, I marveled at the ingenuity of the ancient engineers who devised this system, which provided life-sustaining water to the inhabitants of this arid region. The cool, refreshing water that flowed through these channels was a stark contrast to the scorching desert heat, a lifeline for the people of Turpan.
Turpan itself was a place of wonder. As we explored the city, I couldn’t help but recall the tales of “Journey to the West,” the classic Chinese novel that chronicled the adventures of the Monkey King and his companions. The Flaming Mountains, a range of red sandstone hills, loomed in the distance, their fiery appearance reminiscent of the hardships faced by the travelers on the Silk Road. The sweltering heat of these mountains was a testament to the harsh conditions endured by those who traversed this ancient trade route, braving the elements in search of fortune and knowledge.
As our journey through the Silk Road drew to a close, I reflected on the incredible sights and stories we had encountered. The Crescent Spring, Mogao Caves, Jiaohe Ruins, and Turpan’s wonders were not just historical relics but living testimonies to the resilience and creativity of the people who lived and traveled along this legendary route. The Silk Road was more than just a trade route; it was a corridor of culture, exchange, and exploration. Our journey was a window into the past, a reminder of the rich history that continues to shape our present and future.