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U.S. student: Xinjiang, a place beyond imagination

Nov 01, 2025



Gavin Andrew Cooley, a 23-year-old from Arizona, the United States, embarked on his journey to Xinjiang after obtaining his bachelor's degree in art from Peking University. During his trip in Xinjiang, Cooley visited natural attractions such as Black Oil Mountain and the Ghost City in Karamay. He also went to local residents' homes, tasted characteristic delicacies, and experienced the unique cultural charm. Cooley discovered that Xinjiang is not the desolate place he had previously imagined, but a well-connected, convenient and safe area. He also said that Xinjiang is very developed, with well-equipped urban facilities, and the people here live happily.
As a social media influencer, Cooley believes that it is crucial to let more people understand the real Xinjiang. He suggests inviting influential internet celebrities to Xinjiang, allowing them to freely explore, experience, record and share the real Xinjiang in their own ways. He hopes to leverage the power of videos and social media to show people around the world the beauty of Xinjiang and the kindness of its people.


Executive Producer: Xiao Chunfei

Supervisors: Ding Tao and Xue Jing
Producer: Jie Wenjin
Planner: Cheng Li
Reporter: Fan Zixuan
Camera: Gao Xu
Post-productions: Lin Han and Janat

Reviewers: Hou Weili and Zhang Shijie

Source :Tianshannet

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