Dailyabuyi: Exploring China's Isolated Taklamakan Desert Village

China's MOST Isolated Village - 200km Deep In The Desert I S2, EP104

Destination:ChinaProvince:XinjiangCity:Kashgar
China's MOST Isolated Village - 200km Deep In The Desert I S2, EP104
Little Chinese Everywhere2024-12-2134 min

After northern China, I traveled to Xinjiang again, this time to China's most isolated Village in the middle of Taklamakan Desert, Dailyabuyi. In this region there is only one river nourishing the cattle and providing a livelihood to the villagers. The region is so remote that there is no phone signal, and electricity solely comes from solar panels.

The road to Daliyabuyi is sandy and not paved, there is very little traffic and some need to be careful to not lose orientation. Conditions are harsh, and distances long, but the landscape and hospitalty of the locals is just outstanding.

Join me on this trip to China's most isolated village

--- Little Chinese Everywhere
December 21, 2024, Winter in China

Video Chapters

  1. 0:00Intro
  2. 1:54Moyu County - Jade Market
  3. 10:04Xinjiang Food
  4. 16:06Desert Road
  5. 24:32Isolated Desert Village
  6. 27:08Desert Village Life

Little Chinese Everywhere's solo trip to Xinjiang's isolated Daliyabuyi village reveals stunning desert landscapes, heartwarming local encounters, and the unique challenges of life 200km from civilization.

Travel Guides & Tips in this video

  1. Tip 1The journey from Zepu to Daliyabuyi takes two days, passing through Moyu, Hotan, and Yutian before heading north into the desert. Be prepared for long distances and challenging terrain. (2:20)
  2. Tip 2Bargaining is common in Xinjiang markets. Start with a high price, leaving room for negotiation. Observe local body language for cues. (5:05)
  3. Tip 3A 400km round trip through the Taklamakan Desert has no gas stations. Ensure you have enough fuel and consider carrying extra. (15:33)
  4. Tip 4Download offline maps before entering the desert, as phone signals are unavailable. Aowei map is suggested. (17:00)
  5. Tip 5Deflate your tires when driving on sandy terrain to improve traction and prevent damage to your vehicle. (19:57)
  6. Tip 6Engage with locals, learn about their culture, and enjoy the unique hospitality of this isolated community. (25:29)
  7. Tip 7Infrastructure is minimal in Daliyabuyi. Expect simple accommodations and limited electricity. (27:28)

Journey deep into China's Taklamakan Desert with Little Chinese Everywhere as she explores Daliyabuyi, a village 200km from civilization. Witness the unique challenges and surprising resilience of this isolated community, their reliance on the Keriya River, and their heartwarming hospitality. Discover the vibrant local markets, barter for jade, and share meals with the villagers. This is an unforgettable adventure showcasing the raw beauty of Xinjiang and the enduring spirit of its people.

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China's MOST Isolated Village - 200km Deep In The Desert I S2, EP104

This episode of Little Chinese Everywhere's China travel vlog takes viewers on a remarkable journey to Daliyabuyi, a remote village nestled deep within the Taklamakan Desert in Xinjiang, China. The journey itself is an adventure, traversing challenging, sandy roads and showcasing the determination of both Little Chinese Everywhere and her driver, Mr. Dong, to reach their destination. The initial skepticism of Mr. Dong towards the trip highlights the remoteness of Daliyabuyi, a place described as "China's most isolated village."

The journey provides opportunities to experience the unique culture of Xinjiang. Little Chinese Everywhere interacts with local vendors in Moyu, haggling for jade and experiencing the lively atmosphere of a Friday jade market. This interaction offers a glimpse into the local economy and the importance of jade in the region's history and culture. The vivid descriptions of the haggling process, including body language and expressive communication, make the scene come alive. Further illustrating the culture are scenes of Little Chinese Everywhere purchasing local foods, including pomegranates, baked buns, and naan bread, interacting with locals, and observing their daily life.

Daliyabuyi itself is a testament to human resilience. The village's existence, 200 kilometers into the desert, is explained by the Keriya River, a lifeline that once flowed through the desert, supporting settlements. Although the river has since changed course, the villagers remain, adapting to the harsh conditions with remarkable tenacity. They maintain their herds of sheep and goats, adapting to the lack of infrastructure and relying on solar power for electricity. The villagers' warm hospitality is evident in Little Chinese Everywhere's interactions, sharing meals and conversations, and offering a glimpse into their daily lives. The contrast between the old village, with its traditional dwellings, and the new village, with its modern amenities, shows the ongoing process of adaptation and development. Little Chinese Everywhere's interactions with the villagers, including conversations about their daily lives, family, and work, reveal the warmth and resilience of this community. The video concludes with a reflection on the journey, highlighting the stunning beauty of the desert landscape and the profound impact of the human connection experienced throughout the trip.

Throughout the journey, Little Chinese Everywhere shares personal insights and emotional moments. The challenges faced, from navigating difficult roads to the lack of phone signal, are interspersed with moments of awe and wonder at the landscape and the kindness of the people encountered. The video is a compelling blend of adventure, cultural exploration, and personal reflection, showcasing the unique aspects of travel in rural China.

FAQs (From the traveler's perspective)

Q: What is the best way to get to Daliyabuyi?
A: You'll need a car that can handle tough terrain and a driver familiar with the area. The roads are sandy and not paved, and there's no phone signal once you get into the desert, so download an offline map beforehand.
Q: What's the best time to visit?
A: I'm not entirely sure, but it seems like the time when I visited was good. I think you should check the weather and the conditions of the road before you go.
Q: What's the accommodation like in Daliyabuyi?
A: The conditions are modest. Some families offer accommodations, but it's basic. There are also some other travelers camping on the same dunes.
Q: What should I pack?
A: Pack light, but bring enough fuel for your car, extra water, and comfortable clothing suitable for desert conditions. Don't forget offline maps and a power bank!
Q: What's the food like?
A: The local food is unique and delicious! I tried kömech, which is naan bread with mutton and onion filling, cooked in sand. You'll also find plenty of fresh fruits and other local specialties.

Dailyabuyi: Exploring China's Isolated Taklamakan Desert Village

After northern China, I traveled to Xinjiang again, this time to China's most isolated Village in the middle of Taklamakan Desert, Dailyabuyi. In this region there is only one river nourishing the cattle and providing a livelihood to the villagers. The region is so remote that there is no phone...

Xinjiang's Daliyabuyi: Isolated Village in Taklamakan Desert

Little Chinese Everywhere journeys deep into China's remote Taklamakan Desert, visiting the isolated village of Dailyabuyi. This village, sustained by a single river, lacks phone signal and relies on solar power. The challenging journey includes navigating sandy, unpaved roads. Despite the harsh conditions and vast distances, the traveler highlights the breathtaking landscape and exceptional hospitality of the local people. The video captures the unique culture, food, and daily life in this extraordinary location, showcasing the beauty of Xinjiang's isolated communities.

Attractions in this video: Taklamakan Desert, Keriyal River