Kuerdening, a region known for its forested valleys and wildflower meadows, has become a popular destination for urban visitors seeking respite from the demanding “996” work culture prevalent in China. Located in the Ili area, the valley features landscapes reminiscent of an English summer, attracting tourists during the peak season from mid-June to August.
Visitors often arrive dressed for outdoor leisure, carrying picnic baskets and enjoying the natural surroundings. Popular activities include wedding photo shoots and plein air painting, as well as horseback riding through the area's forests and meadows. The horseback tours pass through river crossings and open onto views of snow-capped peaks, offering a tranquil experience connected with nature.
Among the local residents is Nurmahhan Beti, 41, a Kazakh herder who manages a traditional livestock operation encompassing 200 sheep, 40 cows, and 20 horses. Beti represents a generation that has transitioned from living in mud-brick homes and wooden cabins, used in past harsh winters, to modern houses and vehicles. Despite these changes, he continues to maintain his family’s pastoral lifestyle on seasonal pastures. Beti expressed a relaxed attitude toward younger Kazakhs opting for urban employment, acknowledging the shift but affirming a continued presence in rural life.
The growing appeal of Kuerdening as a tourist destination has also drawn entrepreneurs and content creators, such as Ah Bin the Jiā from eastern China, who has gained recognition for elaborate outdoor dining experiences. His philosophy emphasizes simplicity and freedom, aligning with the region’s atmosphere. Accommodations like the Kuerdening Valley Camp offer comfortable cabins with nature-focused amenities, catering to visitors seeking immersion in the environment.
However, the increasing influx of tourists has introduced challenges. Jia, a local guide preparing for a large group from major Chinese cities, highlighted the strain on infrastructure and service standards. Remote accommodations often depend on nearby villagers for staffing, as there is little incentive for trained hospitality workers to relocate. Moreover, popular social media spots have become overcrowded, leading to competition among visitors and occasional disputes. Jia noted that traditional hospitality toward visitors, such as sharing meals and milking cows, has diminished as tourism becomes more commercialized.
Despite the tensions brought by tourism, the region continues to offer a distinctive sense of freedom associated with its open spaces, clean mountain air, and a slower pace of life. Visitors find themselves drawn to the natural beauty and the nomadic culture’s relaxed approach to uncertainty, embodying a connection with the present moment rarely experienced in urban centers.