Kazakhstan Promotes Culinary Traditions to Chinese Media
A team from Sanlian Lifeweek Magazine, one of China’s top publications, visited Kazakhstan's cities of Astana, Almaty, and Shymkent to explore the country’s rich culinary heritage. The visit, aimed at showcasing Kazakhstan’s efforts to revive its national cuisine internationally, was reported by Kazakh Tourism Press Service on Jan. 16.
The group sampled traditional Kazakh dishes such as beshbarmak, kumys, and milk tea with millet, while experiencing the country’s renowned hospitality. Journalist Liwei Wu noted the visit was inspired by Kazakhstan’s status as a visa-free destination and its cultural ties with China.
The team toured national restaurants and markets, evaluating dishes and service. The visit is part of a broader effort to promote Kazakh cuisine and attract Chinese tourists, as gastronomic tourism continues to rise in China.
“Gastronomy tourism is one of the most promising sectors for attracting global travelers,” said Kairat Sadvakassov, the chairman of Kazakh Tourism.
Kazakhstan was recently named the Most Perspective New Destination 2025 by Tongcheng Travel, a leading Chinese travel agency. In 2024, Chinese visitors to Kazakhstan increased by 78%, reaching 655,000.
Photo credit: Kazakh Tourism
