West Pole: Catching China’s Last Ray of Sunshine in the Pamir Highlands

1.Located at the northwestern tip of the: Chinese map, the West Pole (Xi Jidian) in Jigen Township is a land defined by its status as the last place in China to receive the sun's rays. Situated in Simahana Village, Wuqia County, this geographical extreme represents the "end" of the nation where one can stand on the edge of the border and gaze into the distance. The area sits on the eastern edge of the Pamir Plateau at an average altitude of approximately 3,000 meters. It is not a traditional 5A scenic spot, but its unique geographical significance makes it a sacred destination for travelers seeking geographic extremes.

2.The history of the West: Pole is deeply rooted in the definition of China's land territory. The name "Simahana" is derived from the Kyrgyz language, meaning "the place where golden silk is washed," reflecting the local village's cultural identity near the border with Kyrgyzstan. Historically, this region was a critical node along the Southern Route of the Ancient Silk Road, serving as a bridge for cultural exchange between the East and the West. The local Kyrgyz people, the primary inhabitants of this land, have infused the West Pole with their rich cultural heritage, including the epic of Manas and traditional music.

3.Visiting the West: Pole offers a profound experience of time and space. Because of its extreme western longitude, the local time for sunset is approximately 3.5 hours later than in Beijing. On a midsummer night, the sun may not set until after 10:00 PM Beijing time, allowing visitors to witness the "Last Ray of Sunshine" in China. The landscape is a stark and powerful combination of the towering Pamir Mountains, desolate Gobi deserts, and the vibrant life of the border villages. Here, the borderline is not just a political boundary but an intersection where the Kyrgyz nomadic lifestyle meets the vast, silent majesty of the highlands.

4.Highlights 核心亮点: China West Pole Geographical Marker: Stand at the stone monument officially marking the westernmost point of China’s land territory. The Last Sunset in China: Witness the unique phenomenon where the sun sets roughly 3.5 hours later than in eastern China. Simahana Village and Kyrgyz Culture: Immerse yourself in the authentic nomadic lifestyle and see traditional Kyrgyz felt hats (Kalpak) and dress. Pamir Plateau Border Scenery: Enjoy breathtaking views of high-altitude mountain ranges and Gobi landscapes at the nation's edge.