Ancient Qiuci Alley winds its way to modern prosperity

At Abudulkadeer Memetmin's teahouse there are no lavish decorations — only timeworn tables and big bowls visitors can sip tea from for only 2 to 5 yuan ($0.28 to $0.70).

Located in Qiuci Alley in the Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region's southern Kuqa city, a bowl of the beverage at "Grandpa's Tea House" is often accompanied by the strumming of the dutar — a traditional two-stringed musical instrument — and the sight of locals enjoying a game of cards.

"Some elderly friends spend the whole day sitting in the room, playing, chatting, drinking tea — they are here not just for the tea, but for the company," said 64-year-old Abudulkadeer. "People who come here are mostly retired, or tourists who want a place to rest. The prices are low and everyone is happy," he said.

In 2021, Abudulkadeer retired from his work as a truck driver. After the local government launched the renovation of Qiuci Alley in May 2023, he decided to turn his home into a teahouse.