Boom time in the borderlands

Ethnic culture, frontier spirit and natural bounty all part of remote village's growing touristic appeal, Xu Lin and Mao Weihua report in Bortala, Xinjiang.

Two and a half centuries ago, their ancestors held fort at the border, ordered by their emperor to do so. Now, the residents of Bogdal, in traditional costumes, welcome visitors to their village for a glimpse of their remarkable history.

To solemn background music, a group of soldiers in historical costumes slowly approach on horseback, evoking the village's heritage.

During the reign of Emperor Qianlong of the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911), several thousand Mongolian soldiers and their families were ordered to migrate westward to Xinjiang to garrison the border.