Wondrous Xinjiang: Project renovating old residences revitalizes ancient city
Local resident Abdukader Mamtimin makes rose tea at his tea house in a historic and cultural community in Kuqa City in northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, March 15, 2024.(Xinhua/Zhang Yu)
URUMQI, March 16 (Xinhua) -- Local music and dance performances on Friday marked the start of this year's work on a project to renovate old residences in Kuqa City, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region.
The city of Kuqa in Xinjiang's Aksu Prefecture was an important transportation hub along the ancient Silk Road. In March 2012, it was designated a state-level historic and cultural city, and many measures have since been rolled out to protect its rich heritage.
The renovation project was initially launched in April last year, and it has a particular focus on Kuqa's older dwellings.
"The old residences in Kuqa hold significant historic, cultural, artistic and social value," said Zhang Xue, a city management official.
Kuqa has over 100 residences dating back more than 80 years. Many of these buildings have deteriorated, and some face the risk of collapse. The renovation project aims to bring new life to these buildings and restore them to their former splendor, Zhang said.
In an endeavor to rejuvenate the city's old residences while retaining their original appearance, a number of cultural heritage conservation experts have been invited to contribute to the project, and over 150 local traditional craftsmen are also participating.
Yusupjan Yasin, who was born in the 1990s and graduated from university just last year, said that he didn't hesitate to volunteer for the project after hearing that it would be implemented in Kuqa. His father was a carpenter and taught him the craft, and he majored in artistic design at university, he said.
"These old houses showcase vivid memories of harmonious coexistence and integration in the multi-ethnic-group city. I am deeply honored to be part of the project and eager to employ my skills to contribute to the preservation of old traditional residences," he said.
In the eyes of local resident Abdukader Mamtimin, 62, the renovation project has not only fortified old houses -- it has also safeguarded traditional culture.
As renovated lanes full of local charm draw increasing numbers of tourists, Abdukader Mamtimin has recently been inspired by younger generations to embark on a new business venture, opening a teahouse in his old home.
"My rose tea and milk tea have been well-received. I can earn up to 7,000 yuan (about 986 U.S. dollars) per month."
"The project is not only about repairing buildings; it is also about preserving traditional culture and fostering unity among our people. We will take this opportunity to encourage widespread participation from our residents and help more tourists experience our unique traditional culture," said Maynur Ahat, a local official.
Tourists buy special local products at a market in Kuqa City in northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, March 15, 2024.(Xinhua/Zhang Yu)
Performers play music in Kuqa City in northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, March 15, 2024.(Xinhua/Zhang Yu)
People play music and sing at a tea house in a historic and cultural community in Kuqa City in northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, March 15, 2024.(Xinhua/Zhang Yu)
Related articles
Messi in and Dybala out in Argentina squad for pre
BUENOS AIRES, Argentina (AP) — Lionel Messi is in and Paulo Dybala is out of Argentina’s squad for f2024-05-21Tip leads to arrest in cold case killing of off
BALTIMORE (AP) — Baltimore prosecutors on Wednesday announced the arrest of a man in the cold case h2024-05-21China expels teacher for pushing for students to use Tibetan language — Radio Free Asia
A Tibetan language teacher in China’s Sichuan province was interrogated and expelled by authorities2024-05-21Travis Kelce reveals his Chiefs teammate and soon
Would you buy an expensive steak from a man who dips his in ketchup?That is, more or less, the quest2024-05-21Travis Kelce downs whiskey shot on slice of bread at Kelce Jam without Taylor Swift
Travis Kelce was spotted taking a whiskey shot from a slice of bread in true southern fashion as he2024-05-21Justin Verlander to make season debut for Astros on Friday night at Washington
HOUSTON (AP) — Houston Astros ace Justin Verlander will make his season debut Friday night at the Wa2024-05-21
atest comment