URUMQI, May 17 (Xinhua) -- A popular night market has been reopened in Urumqi, capital of the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, after an upgrade of the environment.
The Xingguang night market, located in a public square in the Saybag District of Urumqi, is open every day from 8 p.m. to midnight. Over 100 stands sell everything from kebabs, Xinjiang-style chicken, seafood to sushi.
It is close to the site of the old night food market, which was founded in 1992. The old market was closed due to traffic congestion and hygiene problems.
Zhou Jiang, a merchant from the old market, reopened a stand to sell lamb kebabs. "Many of my old clients are coming back. We sell out in just three hours every day. Business has been excellent," he said.
When planning for the new market, the designers viewed a large number of video materials of the old market and visited more than 70 merchants of the old market to listen to their advice.
Li Jianqin, an official with the Saybag District Commerce Bureau, said the market has boosted the city's night economy. Merchants are required to ensure food safety and prevent fire risks.
Thousands of people, including locals, tourists and people who drive from nearby cities, visit the stands every day.
Local resident Reyhan was having a night out with her old neighbor Ma Yonghong.
"Both of us used to live by the night market. It is a relaxing environment. The new market is clean and orderly. It's refreshing and a good place to hang out with friends," she said.
The market is open from the beginning of May and will last until October when it is too cold to dine out.
