Nestled in northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, the Kizilsu Kirgiz Autonomous Prefecture reveals a vibrant tapestry of cultural passion and agricultural innovation. Here, two seemingly unrelated elements – football and figs – weave together a story of tradition and modernity.
A Century of Football Fever
In Yikesak village, Artux City, residents have maintained a football legacy since 1908. Generations have played on what's considered one of China's oldest football fields, using handmade balls stuffed with cotton. "From toddlers kicking pebbles to grandparents sharing strategies, football connects us all," says local coach Ablimit Memet, describing the sport's role in community bonding.
Nature's Candy Store
200 kilometers east in Azihan Village, over 6,200 mu of fig orchards produce China's sweetest specimens. The village's sugar-rich figs – containing 24% natural sugars – fuel a $12 million industry. Through modern cold-chain logistics, these sun-kissed fruits reach consumers nationwide as jams, dried snacks, and innovative mooncake fillings.
This dual narrative of cultural preservation and economic transformation showcases how Xinjiang's communities honor traditions while embracing sustainable development – a balancing act resonating across Asia's evolving rural landscapes.
