Vitality of Samawar dance in Xinjiang shines in hustle and bustle of daily life

陈小将

Parhat Emin performs the Samawar dance in the Qiuci Alley of Kuqa city, Northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region, July 22, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

In the Qiuci Alley of Kuqa city, Northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region, Parhat Emin performs the Samawar (a Uygur term meaning "tea set") dance, a traditional Uygur greeting dance with a history dating back to the millennium-old ancient Qiuci State. His eyes shine brightly, and his smile is warm and welcoming. With a bronze pot and porcelain bowls balanced steadily on a plate over his head, his body spins smoothly, and his feet move as lightly as the wind. As he dances gracefully to the rhythm of traditional Uygur music, the surrounding audience burst into cheers from time to time.

Kuqa, where the ancient Qiuci State was mainly located, was a vital hub along the ancient Silk Road, bustling with merchants and the tinkle of camel bells. Today the Qiuci Alley is a popular tourist destination in Kuqa. From noon till midnight every day, dances including the Samawar are performed repeatedly in the block, filling the air with constant joy.