After months of phased adjustments to epidemic prevention policies, Urumqi—the vibrant capital of China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region—is breathing new life into its streets. CGTN footage reveals bustling night markets, packed restaurants, and lively shopping districts as residents reclaim routines interrupted by pandemic restrictions.
'It feels like waking up from a long winter,' said a local vendor grilling lamb skewers at a popular food stall. Small businesses report a steady rise in customers, while public transit and taxi services resume full operations. The city's reopening aligns with broader national efforts to balance public health priorities with economic revitalization.
Travel platforms note a 35% week-over-week increase in hotel bookings to Xinjiang, signaling renewed interest in the region's Silk Road heritage sites. Analysts suggest this recovery mirrors trends in other Chinese mainland cities adopting optimized COVID-19 response strategies, emphasizing targeted approaches over blanket measures.
While mask usage remains common in crowded areas, the return of street musicians and weekend bazaars underscores a community-driven push toward normalcy. 'We're rebuilding connections,' shared a Urumqi-based entrepreneur launching a sustainable tourism app. 'It's not just about business—it’s cultural resilience.'
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The bustling vibes in China: Urumqi gradually returns to everyday life
cgtn.com
