The city of Kashgar in southern Xinjiang is known as a trade hub on the legendary Silk Road that once connected ancient China to the West. In Kashgar, Mardan Ablimit owns a coffee shop where he makes "Kashgar coffee" by combining local spices to the popular drink. The result is a unique blend that connects visitors to the city's storied past.

This is one of many stories in CGTN's exclusive documentary "Beyond the Mountains: Life in Xinjiang." Watch the full documentary here.