Bai Ling’s Love Letter to Kyrgyzstan at the World Nomad Games

During a press briefing in the lakeside town of Cholpon‑Ata on September 5, actress Bai Ling let out a grin that could barely be contained. She said the very air of Kyrgyzstan – the music, the mountains, the age‑old traditions – seemed to reach straight into the depths of her soul.

“The land, its rich culture, the inseparable connection with nature – it all touches the depths of my soul,” she told reporters, echoing the sentiment of the local Kabar News Agency. It was a heartfelt confession, peppered with a chuckle when she added that her home in China feels “just a stone’s throw away, right behind these very peaks.”

But it wasn’t only grand panoramas that left an impression. Bai Ling spoke fondly of a chilly plunge into Lake Issyk‑Kul, describing the icy water as oddly invigorating. “I swam even though it was cold – it felt like a fresh burst of energy,” she recalled, her eyes sparkling at the memory.

Perhaps the most endearing anecdote involved a humble taxi driver who recognized her from a few years back. Instead of demanding a fare, he simply offered a free ride, a gesture that lingered in her mind long after the journey ended. “I love the local cuisine, I love the culture, but what really sticks with me is the sincere kindness of strangers,” she said, her tone softening.

Looking ahead, Bai Ling hinted that this visit is just the beginning. She plans to return to Kyrgyzstan, not only for leisure but also to explore potential film projects that could capture the nation’s breathtaking vistas. “There’s a huge untapped potential for filmmaking here,” she noted, eyes drifting to the distant hills.

The 6th World Nomad Games, running from August 31 to September 6, 2026, have turned Kyrgyzstan into a vibrant stage – opening ceremonies at Bishkek Arena, fierce competitions in the Issyk‑Kul region, and a parade of cultural showcases that seem to resonate with every visitor. Bai Ling’s words add yet another layer to the festival’s growing legend.