The Western Regions or Xiyu (Chinese: 西域; pinyin: Xīyù; Wade-Giles: Hsiyü) was a historical name specified in the Chinese chronicles between the 3rd century BC to 8th century that referred to the region of Central Asia west of Yumen Guan. Because of its strategic location astride the Silk Road, the Western Regions have been historically significant since at least the 3rd century BC. It was the scene of conflict between the Han Dynasty and the Xiongnu until the middle of the 2nd century. The region became significant in later centuries as a cultural conductor between East Asia, the Indian subcontinent, the Islamic World and the West. One of the most significant exports of the Western Regions was Buddhism, which was carried by traders and pilgrim monks to China. The Tang Dynasty monk Xuanzang crossed the region on his way to study in India, penning the classic Great Tang Records of the Western Regions upon his return to the Tang capital Chang'an. In the 18th century, the Qing Dynasty conquered part of this region and put it under military administration. In 1884, the region was established as a province under the name Xinjiang.
