Under the bright sun of December 2, 2024, residents of Huoxian County in Tongzhou District, Beijing, flocked to the local open-air market, a bustling hub of commerce and community life. Stalls lined the streets, offering an array of products ranging from steaming buns and colorful balloons to warm beddings and fashionable clothing.
The open-air markets in rural Beijing are more than just places to shop; they are a vibrant tapestry of daily life where tradition meets modernity. Shoppers weave through the lively aisles, haggling with vendors over the price of fresh produce, sampling local delicacies, and catching up with neighbors. The markets provide residents with affordable necessities while fostering a strong sense of community.
“I come here every week,” says Li Mei, a local resident carrying a basket filled with fruits and vegetables. “It’s not just about buying things; it’s about connecting with people and experiencing the energy of the market.”
The market’s atmosphere is festive, with children chasing each other around stalls, their hands clutching helium balloons shaped like their favorite cartoon characters. The scent of freshly baked goods mingles with the crisp winter air, enticing passersby to stop and savor the flavors of traditional snacks.
These markets play a significant role in the local economy, providing opportunities for small business owners and farmers to sell their goods directly to consumers. They also offer a glimpse into the everyday lives of Beijing’s rural communities, often overshadowed by the metropolis’s modern skyline.
The open-air market in Huoxian County is part of a broader tapestry captured in CGTN’s special series, “People’s City, Better Future,” which delves into the lives of Beijing residents, showcasing their joy and daily experiences. Through this lens, the market becomes more than just a place of commerce—it embodies the spirit and resilience of the community.
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Buns, balloons and beddings: Rural open-air market in Beijing
cgtn.com
