Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — The Xinjiang Ancient Ecological Park, located in the high-tech zone of Ürümqi, China, is a unique project launched by Xinjiang Wild Horse Cultural Development Co., Ltd. It brings together nature conservation, cultural heritage, scientific education, and ecotourism in a single expansive complex.

Spanning 13 hectares, the park features a large-scale cultural and tourist center focused on two main themes: the region’s ancient ecology and the legacy of the Akhal-Teke horse — one of the rarest and most prized breeds in the world. Through the seamless fusion of natural uniqueness and the region's rich history, the park has earned the informal title of a “living museum of the Silk Road.”

Ecological and Scientific Value

A highlight of the park is its collection of ancient petrified trees, featuring nearly a thousand specimens. The largest reaches 40 meters in length and is estimated to be between 150 and 300 million years old, offering visitors a vivid glimpse into the geological past of the planet.

The park also plays an active role in restoring Xinjiang’s desert ecosystems. It has planted centuries-old dead Populus euphratica trees, which not only serve an ecological function by strengthening environmental resilience but also help promote public awareness of environmental protection.

Center for Horse Culture Preservation and Promotion

The Xinjiang park is China’s largest center for breeding Akhal-Teke horses. It hosts 18 elite horse breeds, including purebred “heavenly horses.” The park’s infrastructure includes four racetracks, training grounds, and special swimming pools for horses. Visitors can watch training sessions, learn about the breed’s history, and take part in interactive programs.

Chen Zhifeng, chairman of Wild Horse Corporation and the visionary behind the project, is a passionate horse enthusiast who humbly refers to himself as a “stableman.” According to him, horses are more than a cultural emblem — they symbolize dialogue between the peoples of Central Asia and Eurasia. He believes that “horse culture” can serve as a platform for strengthening international cooperation and enhancing cultural and trade relations.

“As a stableman, I want horses to help develop Xinjiang,” Chen Zhifeng emphasized.

A Cultural and Educational Platform

The park is home to the Wild Horse Art Gallery, showcasing works by Chinese and Xinjiang artists, including paintings, sculptures, and installations themed around nature, nomadic cultures, and the Silk Road. This space bridges art, science, and history.

Recognized as a national model base for cultural tourism, the park also serves as an educational and scientific center for Chinese schoolchildren and as a demonstration site for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation in the fields of culture and ecology. Each year, it welcomes millions of visitors, including tourists, students, and international delegations.

Global Relevance

The project is closely aligned with China’s Belt and Road Initiative and stands as a model of the harmonious coexistence of cultural heritage and modern environmental practices. The park is open to international cooperation in the fields of science, culture, ecology, and tourism.