The 3rd Silk Road Rally 2025 commenced on April 23 with opening ceremony at Wangjingmen, Huaqing Palace in Xi’an, the historic starting point of the ancient Silk Road in northwest China's Shaanxi province.
A fleet of 30 vehicles from across China depart from Shaanxi, embarking on an 8,000-kilometer westward journey to arrive in Astana, the capital of Kazakhstan. [Photo/Xinhua]
As the organizer of the opening ceremony, Shaanxi Huaqing Palace Cultural Tourism Co Ltd hosts cultural activities and provides tourism services for the rally, combining cultural heritage with modern hospitality. [Photo provided to China Daily]
This annual competition, launched in 2023, gathered more than 200 racers across four competitive stages. The 8,000-kilometer route connects deserts, grasslands, oases, and ancient trials, creating a unique cultural corridor where motorsport meets historical exploration along the Silk Road.
"The dialogue between the ancient Huaqing Palace and the modern Silk Road Rally creates a cultural feast," said Nie Qinglin, deputy Party secretary of Shaanxi Huaqing Palace Cultural Tourism Co Ltd. "As host of the opening ceremony, the Huaqing Palace will ensure flawless execution with premium services, while showcasing this historic garden's cultural charm and revitalizing its heritage for modern audiences."