The term “bazaar”, meaning “market” in the Uygur language, offers a lively space where visitors can find fruits, clothing, handicrafts, knives, carpets, and nearly anything imaginable. A trip to Urumqi would not be complete without visiting the Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar, located in the Tianshan District. With a total floor area of nearly 100,000 square meters and over 3,000 shops, it is currently the largest bazaar in China and a major center of Uygur cultural performances.

The architecture of the Grand Bazaar is magnificent and reflects strong Islamic influences, showcasing the distinctive characteristics of the Western Regions. The variety of delicate ethnic souvenirs available can be almost overwhelming. Walking through the bazaar feels like stepping into a vibrant market, where one can fully experience the charm of ethnic minority cultures.

One of the highlights is the Silk Road Sightseeing Tower. Standing about 80 meters tall in the center of the square, this round tower is the most famous attraction within the bazaar. Each floor features paintings and exhibitions telling the historical stories of the ancient Silk Road. From the top, visitors can enjoy a full view of the city of Urumqi.

On both sides of the square, Uygur-style pedestrian streets are lined with shops selling delicious Xinjiang dried fruits, traditional musical instruments, handcrafted items, and painted tambourines (手鼓). It is common to see local Uygurs playing folk music in front of their stores. Ethnic-style floats (花车) placed around the square also provide excellent photo opportunities, allowing visitors to imagine the historical prosperity of the Silk Road.

Another unique spot is the “Naan Museum”. As a staple food of Xinjiang’s ethnic groups with a long history, naan (馕) is presented here through more than 100 varieties from across the region. The museum introduces the culture behind this baked bread and related customs, such as the taboo against counting the number of naan during preparation. Visitors may even try making naan themselves.

As night falls, the Grand Bazaar takes on a different atmosphere. In the evening, the pedestrian streets light up, and the atmosphere becomes lively. Local specialties such as grilled fish, ice cream, roasted whole lamb, rice noodles, pilaf, and pepper chicken are all available here.

1. 1. What is the Urumqi Grand Bazaar mainly known as?

A    A modern shopping mall.

B    A historical museum.

C    A Uygur food market.

D    The largest bazaar in China.

2. 2. The word “vibrant” in Paragraph 2 most likely means ______.

A    quiet and peaceful

B    full of energy and life

C    ancient and historical

D    colorful and decorated

3. 3. What can visitors do at the Silk Road Sightseeing Tower?

A    Buy traditional instruments.

B    Perform Uygur music.

C    View the whole city.

D    Make naan bread.

4. 4. What is the main purpose of the “Naan Museum”?

A    To sell different naan varieties.

B    To teach visitors to make naan.

C    To introduce naan-related culture.

D    To show historical Silk Road stories.