Round Table China

Xinjiang's cultural heritage in new light

20 snips
Sep 24, 2025
Explore the vibrant evolution of cultural heritage in Xinjiang, where ancient traditions meet modernity. Discover the lively streets of Kashi, enriched by the fusion of Uygur melodies and Guangdong's Yingge dance. Delve into the epic of Manas and its contemporary adaptations. Learn about the challenges of preserving historical structures while enhancing safety. Youth-led initiatives and emerging artisan innovations are paving the way for experiential tourism, adding new layers to this cultural tapestry.
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ANECDOTE

Walking Through Living History

  • The hosts explore Kashgar, a living ancient city at the far west hub of the Silk Road with over 2,000 years of history.
  • They describe bazaars, carved loess architecture, and the city's unique placement between Tian Shan and Taklamakan Desert.
INSIGHT

Modernizing Without Erasing The Past

  • Kashgar's ancient carved structures required careful modernization like drainage, electricity, and fire safety without losing authenticity.
  • Local government guided household-level renovations to balance safety and heritage preservation.
ANECDOTE

The Hero Who Forged Iron Pots

  • A local legend explains blacksmithing origins: a hero forged special iron tools to slay a monster and saved the village at his cost.
  • The ironware tradition turned into everyday kitchen pots and passed down through generations.
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