Chinese adventurers conquer Arctic extremes in 12,000-km journey to Yakutia’s northern lights
A group of Chinese adventurers has completed a gruelling 12,000-kilometre expedition from Beijing to Cape Paks, the northernmost point on Yakutia’s mainland. Led by Shao Haifeng of the Coordinates of the Earth travel club, the team endured extreme cold and treacherous terrain before witnessing the aurora borealis at their destination.
The journey began in Beijing, with the team relying on Chinese-assembled Ford SUVs to cross vast distances. Along the way, they faced temperatures plummeting to -62°C, along with blizzards and shifting tides that complicated navigation. Despite the harsh conditions, the vehicles performed reliably throughout the trip.
Upon reaching Cape Paks in Yakutia’s Anabar District, the travellers were met with a breathtaking display of the northern lights. The expedition’s leader, Shao Haifeng, noted how the Arctic’s raw power and the hospitality of the Yakut people left a lasting impression on the group. The return trip was equally unforgettable, with another stunning aurora lighting up the sky. The expedition is part of a broader project, with plans to extend the journey to Chukotka in March. Visa-free travel between Russia and China has contributed to a rise in so-called wild tourism, encouraging more adventurers to explore remote regions. Additionally, one student from Kharyyalakh School in Olenyok District received an invitation to study at Peking University from Professor Zhang Yulai, highlighting growing academic ties between the two nations.
The expedition’s success demonstrates the resilience of both the travellers and their Ford Expedition SUVs in extreme Arctic conditions. With future trips already in planning, the group’s experiences may inspire more adventurers to follow in their tracks. Meanwhile, cultural and educational exchanges between Yakutia and China continue to strengthen.
