In various villages of Yarkant County, Kashi Prefecture, northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, there is a lively place known as ‘bazaar’. This venue serves not only as a marketplace for goods but also as a gathering place for culinary delights, and it plays a crucial role in the dissemination of traditional Chinese culture.

On November 25, 2024, the bazaar in Huangdi Town, Yarkant County, was a bustling hive of activity. Stalls lined the bazaar, creating a lively scene. The array of products was overwhelming, from colorful textiles to intricate handicrafts. The air was filled with the tantalizing aromas of street food, making mouths water. The vendors' enthusiastic cries added a dynamic and vibrant touch to this thriving market.

"Fresh grapes, they are large and sweet. Come and have a try!" "Steamed buns, just out of the oven, piping hot. Come and get one!" The vendors greeted passers-by with their unique voices and tones, warmly inviting them. Their rhythmic and infectious shouts compelled one to pause, curiously glance around, and even tempted one to indulge in the treats.

Strolling through the food section, a feast of Xinjiang’s delicacies awaits. The golden, crispy whole roasted lamb tantalizes with an irresistible aroma, inviting one to savor its tender meat. Taste the steamed buns, with a crispy outside and a soft, tasty inside. The pilaf is a visual and culinary delight, with its vibrant grains, tender beef and lamb, and a symphony of vegetables that linger on the palate. But the star of the bazaar is the lamb kabab, perfectly grilled, juicy, and tender, their spicy seasonings making them utterly irresistible.

"This bazaar is incredibly lively! Not only can I taste a variety of delicious foods, but I can also enjoy captivating performances such as opera and singing, I can't wait to visit again," said visitor Zhao Zicheng with excitement.

In the livestock trading area of the bazaar, the calls of vendors resonate with a rugged and spirited tone. "Sheep! Stop my sheep!" a shepherd shouts loudly, attempting to herd a rambunctious lamb back to the flock, eliciting laughter from those nearby. Another vendor waves his arms energetically, proclaiming, "Great cattle and sheep! Come see for yourself, all home-bred with exquisite meat quality!" His voice is powerful and resonant, drawing many customers to observe and select.

Here, cattle and sheep are everywhere, and chickens and ducks are in flocks. Vendors enthusiastically wave their arms and call out to capture the attention of potential buyers. They promote their livestock while providing details about the breeds and pricing. Customers weave through the stalls, carefully examining the size, color, and demeanor of the animals, bargaining with vendors to secure their desired livestock.

Beyond the culinary delights, the bazaar offers a dazzling array of goods that can overwhelm the senses. Fresh fruits and vegetables are neatly arranged, featuring vibrant red tomatoes, lush green peppers, and glistening purple grapes, each exuding a natural fragrance. Local specialties such as almonds, walnuts, and various dried fruits are sweet and nutritious, prompting visitors to take some home as souvenirs.

At the bazaar, vendors warmly greet customers, and their faces are adorned with genuine smiles. They not only market their products but also share insights about the unique features and uses of their goods, creating a palpable sense of local culture and hospitality. Tourists weave through the stalls, savoring delicious foods and selecting items, all while immersing themselves in the lively atmosphere of the bazaar.

To enrich people's spiritual lives of rural communities, Yarkant County has meticulously planned and organized a series of vibrant activities. On days for bazaar, villagers not only have the opportunity to purchase desired items but also to enjoy a variety of cultural performances, including dance, music, and drama. Additionally, calligraphy and painting enthusiasts from across the county gather to showcase their exquisite skills, allowing villagers to experience the unique charm of traditional culture up close. The implementation of these activities has not only enriched the spiritual world of rural residents but also fostered emotional connections among neighbors, injecting new vitality into the inheritance and development of rural culture.

As night falls, the lights at the bazaar gradually illuminate, and the lively atmosphere remains undiminished. The calls of vendors resonate in a rhythmic chorus, intertwining with the sounds of bargaining and laughter from customers, creating a harmonious and vivid tapestry of market life. Here, people savor delicious food, purchase goods, and enjoy performances, reveling in the joy and satisfaction that the bazaar brings, while experiencing the allure of excellent traditional Chinese culture.

(The Media Convergence Center of Yarkant County, Reporter: Mamatali Mamatmin)