Former sugar factory – a heritage hub of ethnic harmony

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A glimpse of the historical Bayi Sugar Factory cultural block in Shihezi, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region on July 30, 2026. /CGTN

History and culture displays are seen in a themed exhibition at Bayi Sugar Factory in Shehezi, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region on July 30, 2026. /CGTN

Diverse intangible cultural heritage artworks are displayed at the Bayi Sugar Factory in Shehezi, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region on July 30, 2026. /CGTN

A craft workshop is seen at Bayi Sugar Factory in Shehezi, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region on July 30, 2026. /CGTN

An outdoor intangible cultural heritage market is seen at Bayi Sugar Factory cultural block in Shehezi, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region on July 30, 2026. /CGTN.

Established in 1959, Shihezi's Bayi Sugar Factory grew into a leading light industry pillar in northern Xinjiang. For decades, it boosted local agriculture and stabilized employment. It suspended production in the new century due to industrial upgrading and urban renewal.

Preserved and renovated rather than demolished, the historic industrial site retains its original architectural style and has been revived as a vibrant cultural block. It now gathers intangible cultural heritage inheritors and craft masters from around China, who collaborate with local artisans to exchange skills, create integrated cultural works, and offer immersive craft experiences.

Blending inland traditional crafts with distinctive Xinjiang ethnic culture, the former factory has become a dynamic platform for cultural inheritance and innovation. It continues to carry forward regional historical heritage and showcase the enduring vitality of ethnic unity in Xinjiang.

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