When I was in college, I made lots of friends there, including Uygurs and Kazaks. However, I didn't learn their languages since they are very different from ours. In most people's eyes, the minorities are hostile and savage. Only after you know them, can you find that they are hospitable, frank and original, their cultures are as brilliant as ours, the only matter is that what we know is too limited.

I have a few pictures taken in Xinjiang, if you haven't been there before, you may have a look, hope they can help you know something about the place I love so much.

Usually, this is what you see in many places in Xinjiang, especially the south of it -- clear blue sky, rock mountains, poplar trees, barren lands... but they are beautiful, original and natural. (Click on the thumbnail to view the full-sized picture.)

This is a typical Uygur tomb you'll find if you go visit the east or south of Xinjiang. For many years, it has been standing there lonely, telling passers-by the stories of its master... (Click on the thumbnail to view the full-sized picture.)

Time flies away silently, taking away ancient prosperity, only the ruins are left in the desert now to remind us of the time that they once were proudly standing... (Click on the thumbnail to view the full-sized picture.)

This is the lake nearby the town I used to live in. It's a round lake on the top of mountains with clean blue water, and there's a moving legend about this lake. Every summer shepherds from other places gather here to hold a grand sport meeting. You'll never forget the beautiful scenery once you see it. (Click on the thumbnail to view the full-sized picture.)