Welcome to our Designer Discoveries series! Today, we’re sharing some intriguing highlights from our recent site visit to Xinjiang, China, where we explored the hidden city of Hotan.
First Stop: Hotan!
Our journey began in southern Xinjiang in the city of Hotan (和田), a remote yet fascinating place. We took a transit flight from Singapore, stopped in Chengdu, and finally touched down in Hotan in September 2024, eagerly anticipating its famous jade (和田玉) and carpets and the unique daily life of this isolated region.
Secretive Hotan Airport
As we approached Hotan, we were instructed to lower all window shades. What a surprise! It turns out that Hotan’s airport shares its space with the military, so no peeking allowed! Frosted windows surrounded the terminal, concealing everything outside. This level of security was a first for us and set the stage for the mysterious side of Hotan.Hotan City: Sandstorms and Grit!
Upon entering the city, we felt like we’d stepped into a post-apocalyptic movie. A sandstorm swept across Hotan that day, enveloping everything in a hazy fog and giving the whole scene an eerie, otherworldly feel. Hotan sits close to the desert and often endures heavy sandstorms, which cast a dramatic filter over the cityscape.
The city itself bears the marks of time, with older buildings showing wear and tear—a reality in one of the poorest areas in South Xinjiang. The gloomy weather had us skipping straight to the markets, where we found cozy shelter and plenty of local treats.
Culinary Comforts in Hotan
Food always brightens a travel day! At the market, we enjoyed classic local dishes like pilaf (抓饭) and naan (馕), which instantly lifted our spirits. Even the night market had to be indoors due to the frequent sandstorms, but that just made it all the more snug and welcoming.
Big Brother Is Watching
One thing that caught our attention was the number of CCTVs on the streets, blinking every second, capturing images constantly. Our taxi driver explained that this extensive surveillance system has effectively curbed crime, creating a safe environment even in one of the region’s poorer cities. We felt surprisingly secure walking around, knowing how much effort goes into public safety.
Spoiler alert: In one of the upcoming cities, those CCTVs might have saved us — stay tuned for the story!
To Visit Or Not To Visit?
While Hotan certainly satisfied our curiosity, we wouldn’t necessarily recommend it as a must-see for our clients. Time in Xinjiang is valuable, and we’d prioritize other captivating spots that offer more refined experiences without the rugged conditions.
Stay tuned for more Designer Discoveries, where we’ll dive deeper into Xinjiang’s fascinating landscapes, culture, and stories (including how those ubiquitous CCTVs actually came to our rescue in another city!).