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The Chinese Silk Road - Episode 1 - Xi'an, Lanzhou and Jiayuguan fortress | Travel China
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The Chinese Silk Road - Episode 1 - Xi'an, Lanzhou and Jiayuguan fortress | Travel China

The Journey Begins: Exploring the Silk Road

Introduction to the Silk Road

  • The Silk Road was a vital trade route connecting China to Europe, active since 200 BC. Merchants from various nationalities traveled it in search of treasures and adventure.
  • Graham Life introduces an epic journey along the Chinese section of the Silk Road, starting in Xi'an and ending in Kashgar, highlighting its historical significance.

Xi'an: The Starting Point

  • Xi'an, as the ancient capital of China, marks the beginning of the Silk Road and was once the richest city globally during its heyday. It attracted traders from around the world.
  • Today, Xi'an is a bustling metropolis with a population comparable to London but does not rank among China's top ten most populated cities.

Cultural Influence in Xi'an

  • The Muslim Quarter in Xi'an showcases Islam's influence brought by traders along the Silk Road; over 100,000 Muslims reside here today, many being descendants of these early traders.
  • The Great Mosque of Xi'an has been a center for Muslim worship since 742 AD and served as a place for traders to pray before their journeys westward.

Tranquility Amidst Bustle

  • Despite being close to busy streets, the mosque offers a calm atmosphere that contrasts sharply with surrounding activity; this highlights cultural coexistence within urban settings.

Exploring My Zhi Shan Grottoes

Historical Significance

  • The My Zhi Shan grottoes are significant Buddhist pilgrimage sites carved into mountainsides over 1500 years ago; they began construction in the late fourth century by monks from Xi’an.
  • Buddhism faced challenges under different dynasties; notable events include monk Tan Hung fleeing persecution and ultimately self-immolating in protest against scrutiny faced by Buddhism at that time.

Cultural Exchange

  • My Zhi Shan represents a unique intersection between Western and Eastern Buddhism due to its location on major trade routes; it reflects cultural influences from India and Southeast Asia evident in local art and sculptures.

Lanzhou: The Golden City

A Hub for Travelers

  • Lanzhou serves as an important historical link on the Silk Road where travelers could restock after long journeys; it is often referred to as "the Golden City."

Culinary Heritage

  • Lanzhou is renowned for its noodles, particularly Liang Joe beef noodles; there’s speculation that Italian pasta originated from similar dishes traveling along this ancient trade route.

Lanzhou Lamian: A Culinary Art

The Art of Noodle Making

  • The lunchtime rush in a Chinese restaurant showcases the kitchen's seamless operation, emphasizing the artistry involved in preparing Lanzhou lamian, a dish revered for its craftsmanship.
  • Noodles are skillfully massaged into a doughy mass, rolled, and pulled into shape before being boiled. Ingredients like beef, onion, and chili are added to enhance flavor.
  • Observing noodle masters at work is mesmerizing due to their commitment and attention to detail, ensuring that these noodles remain a favorite across generations.

Historical Significance of Lanzhou

  • Lanzhou lamian has historical roots dating back to the Silk Road era, serving as sustenance for locals and travelers alike. It was crucial for those heading westward into challenging terrains.

Journey to Jiayuguan Fortress

  • The journey continues towards Jiayuguan Fortress in Gansu Province, known as the westernmost point of the Great Wall and an important passage for trade on the Silk Road.
  • A legend surrounds Jiayuguan's construction; it was said that only 99,999 bricks were needed. However, one brick remained after completion—this brick can still be seen today.

Military History and Reputation

  • Over time, Jiayuguan's walls were fortified due to threats from invaders like Timur. Despite high tensions and military presence, no battles occurred here.
  • Known as "Guei Men Guan" or "Gate of Demons," this fortress served as a banishment point for criminals and wrongdoers throughout history.

Tracing Historical Footsteps

  • As modern travelers pass through Jiayuguan’s gates into the desert, they trace the paths once taken by banished individuals and brave Silk Road traders.
Video description

Enquiries contact g.langford@rocketmail.com The first of three episodes in The Chinese Silk Road documentary series! In this episode, we explore the root of Islam in China in the ancient capital of Xian, before moving into the mountains to discover the incredible Maijishan cave grottoes. We then move on to Lanzhou to try a steaming bowl of the famous hand pulled noodles, before heading to the western end of the Great Wall of China at Jiayuguan.