Changji Halal Food Street
English Name: Changji Halal Food Street
Chinese Name: 昌吉市回民美食街
Changji Hui Food Street, established in June 2006, is a comprehensive tourist area that combines dining, tourism, and cultural experiences. Located in the northeastern corner of People’s Park in the northern district of Changji City, it covers an area of 25.3 acres with a total planned area of 17,000 square meters and a building area of 12,000 square meters. The project involved a total investment of 55 million RMB. The food street is divided into three functional zones: the dining area, the tourism and shopping area, and the cultural and leisure area. Visitors can enjoy Hui customs, taste Hui snacks, and occasionally watch exciting flower performances without leaving the area. The architectural style of the street combines traditional Islamic and classical Chinese designs, featuring brick carvings and spire-like buildings. The design incorporates green tile roofs, blue brick carvings, and iron-red lattice windows. The color scheme, primarily blue and green, with accents of yellow and white, represents the Hui Muslims’ longing for peace and tranquility.
Details:
- Location: Northern district of Changji City, northeast corner of People’s Park.
- Construction: Began in June 2006; covers 25.3 acres with a total planned area of 17,000 square meters and a building area of 12,000 square meters. The project had a total investment of 55 million RMB.
- Opening: The street started operations in September 2008 and was recognized as “Famous Hui Snack Street” by the China Culinary Association on October 7, 2008.
- Current Status: It hosts 58 businesses, including 38 food vendors and 20 shops, with over 180 employees.
Architectural and Cultural Features:
- Architecture: The style blends traditional Islamic and classical Chinese architecture, with features such as typical Hui-style brick-carved gates at each entrance, an elegant overall design, and unique, vintage-style buildings. The design includes green tile roofs, blue brick carvings, iron-red lattice windows, and gray stone pavements, showcasing Hui culinary, clothing, and cultural traditions.
- Brick Carvings: The intricate brick carvings depict various symbols such as plum blossoms, orchids, bamboo, peonies, grapes, and pomegranates, each representing different aspects of Hui culture and values, such as high moral character, prosperity, and harmony among ethnic groups.
Functional Zones:
- Dining Area: Features 38 vendors offering a variety of Hui snacks and dishes, including noodle soups, meat dishes, pastries, and traditional Hui tea.
- Tourism and Shopping Area: Includes 20 shops selling Hui-style clothing, accessories, handicrafts, and souvenirs.
- Cultural and Leisure Area:
- Peace Tower: A 34.6-meter tall, seven-story tower providing panoramic views of the food street and People’s Park.
- Flower Performance Stage: Hosts traditional Hui performances, allowing visitors to enjoy authentic Hui tea and cultural experiences.
Travel Tips:
- Currency: Ensure you have local currency (RMB) as not all vendors accept credit cards.
- Language: Basic English may be understood, but learning a few Mandarin phrases or asking for assistance can be helpful.
- Weather: Check the weather forecast before visiting and dress accordingly.
Maps and Directions:
- Getting There: Accessible by public transport, taxi, or car. Parking is available nearby.
- Map: Obtain a local map or use GPS to navigate to People’s Park and the food street.
Contact Information:
- Management: People’s Park Administration, Changji City.
Changji Hui Food Street, under the management of People’s Park, is a significant cultural and economic initiative to promote Hui culture, showcase local specialties, and enhance the city’s halal food culture. Enjoy your visit and the rich culinary experiences it offers!
