— Young Innovators Bring New Ideas to an Ancient City
Reporter by Jenny KASHGAR — In the bustling streets of Kashgar Old City, where stone-paved alleys wind through wooden latticed windows and the aroma of spices fills the air, visitors from all over the world come and go. But in recent years, some young people have chosen not to remain just passing tourists. Drawn by the city’s unique charm, they have stayed, started businesses, and transformed the ancient city into a stage for their entrepreneurial dreams.
A Tourist’s “Unexpected Stay”
Li Chen (pseudonym), a young man from Beijing, first came to Kashgar as a traveler. Captivated by the atmosphere of the Old City, he made a bold decision: investing 5 million RMB to open a boutique inn with over 30 guest rooms. Today, his inn is fully booked almost every day and has become a favorite stop for visitors. “The Old City is not only a cultural landmark, but also fertile ground for entrepreneurship,” he said.
Young People Returning Home
It’s not just outsiders who are building businesses here. Local youth are also contributing to the city’s revival. Aiyida (pseudonym), born after 2000, studied at university in Beijing. After several years away, she realized that her hometown offered even greater opportunities. Upon graduation, she returned to Kashgar Old City and opened a café. Within just a few years, her coffee brand has expanded to four locations, becoming a popular gathering spot for young people and creating dozens of jobs for local residents.
“After working outside for a while, I could clearly see Kashgar’s potential,” she said. “This city has culture, visitors, and the need for new businesses.”
A Rising Entrepreneurial Scene
The restoration and renewal of Kashgar Old City has drawn many young entrepreneurs, both locals and newcomers.
Outsiders bring fresh business concepts such as boutique inns, themed restaurants, and art spaces.
Local youth combine traditional craftsmanship with modern design, giving new life to cultural heritage.
According to Kashgar’s cultural and tourism authorities, more than one hundred youth-led businesses now operate in the Old City, covering industries from food and beverage to handicrafts, cultural design, and digital media. These ventures have created jobs and diversified the tourism economy.
Culture and Economy Hand in Hand
These new businesses not only enrich the visitor experience but also spread Kashgar’s culture far beyond the city walls.
Some entrepreneurs use short videos and social media to showcase the Old City’s traditions nationwide.
The fusion of ethnic motifs with contemporary design has attracted younger consumers to appreciate Uyghur culture.
New Vitality for an Ancient City
Between the weight of a thousand years of history and the pulse of modern life, young entrepreneurs have become a defining feature of Kashgar Old City. For them, it is no longer just a destination, but a land of opportunity.
As one entrepreneur put it: “We came here as tourists but stayed as entrepreneurs. It’s a journey of mutual growth — we chose the Old City, and the Old City gave us new possibilities.”(end)
