Editor's Note:  Recently, the "China in the Eyes of Sinologists: A Cultural Tour in Xinjiang" delegation traveled through Kashi, Urumqi, Ili and beyond in northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. Its members, from across the globe, boast deep familiarity with Chinese culture—many even count as "old China hands." What caught their eye in Xinjiang? What stayed with them? Starting today, InXinjiang presents a special series, Insights from Sinologists, to bring their journey to life.

Professor Igor Radev earned his master's and doctoral degrees at Central China Normal University and Beijing Normal University. His Chinese name, Feng Haicheng, was given by his teacher during his studies in China. Having lived in China for many years, he is fluent in Chinese, passionate about Chinese culture, and has dedicated himself to sinology research and promoting Chinese culture. His translations include the Book of Songs and works by poets Su Shi and Li Qingzhao. He has also translated classic works of Chinese philosophy and history, such as Tao Te Ching, The Analects of Confucius, and Book of Documents.
Igor Radev first encountered Xinjiang through ancient Chinese literature. His first visit left him with a wonderful impression. He believes Xinjiang has a long history, beautiful scenery, and hospitable people. Regarding foreign media that smears China, Igor Radev stated that after experiencing the truth in person, one would no longer be influenced by such propaganda. He added that China was now more modernized and cooler than the West in many aspects, and that foreign tourists should visit Xinjiang in person to gain an understanding of the real Xinjiang.

Igor Radev pays close attention to the culture of the ancient Silk Road. He plans to write a book on the relations between Tang Dynasty China and the Eastern Roman (Byzantine) Empire along the Silk Road, with the aim of spreading the historical and cultural heritage of Xinjiang on the Silk Road.

Executive Producer: Xiao Chunfei
Supervisors: Ding Tao and Xue Jing
Producer: Jie Wenjin
Planner: Cheng Li
Reporter: Ma Xinling
Cameras: Yin Xiaoyu and Tao Tao (Xinjiang Radio and Television Station）
Post-productions: Tao Zhihao and Demnar Oserhan
Reviewers: Hou Weili and Zhang Shijie
Source :Tianshannet