The Xi'an-Almaty cultural tourism exchange week has come to an end with the departure of the China-Central Asia cultural tourism train from Almaty on June 5.

A farmers' market in Kazakhstan. [Photo/Xi'an news network]

The event, which injected strong momentum into the cultural exchanges between China and Kazakhstan by combining culture, tourism, and sports, enabled the Kazakh people to gain a deeper understanding of the unique charm of Chinese culture through more than 10 immersive activities.

The exchange week kicked off with a welcoming ceremony after the arrival of the tourism train on May 31. At the cultural market, 10 representative intangible cultural heritage (ICH) projects drew many Almaty citizens, offering locals an opportunity to appreciate China's cultural heritage. Archaeological exchange activities showcased the cultural integration and charm of the Silk Road from multiple dimensions. A sports symposium and a youth football friendly match fostered friendship between Chinese and Kazakh youth, laying the groundwork for bilateral communication and cultural exchange.

Kazakh citizens appreciate Chinese ICH. [Photo/Xi'an news network]

Special events, including the promotion of traditional Chinese medicine culture and meetings for women entrepreneurs, were also held, deepening cooperation between Xi'an and Almaty and promoting the integration of cultural tourism, sports, and commerce between the two cities.

The traditional Chinese medicine culture promotion activity. [Photo/Xi'an news network]

Almaty's deputy mayor stated that the opening of the China-Central Asia International Cultural Tourism Special Train (Xi'an-Almaty section) is a robust measure in implementing China's "Kazakhstan Tourism Year" initiative. He emphasized that this exchange week is of great significance for expanding cultural and economic exchanges between the two sides, increasing tourist flows, and consolidating Almaty's position as Kazakhstan's leading tourism center.

With the return of the train, the exchange week has concluded, but the friendships it fostered will continue to promote China-Kazakhstan exchanges, laying a solid foundation for broader cooperation in the future.