The Old City in Kashgar in western Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region was a famed trading hub on the Silk Road. But buildings there have been worn down by the years. Now a reconstruction program is underway in the historical city to improve residents' living conditions while maintaining its traditional style.

Many buildings in the city suffer from poor drainage systems, fires and unsafe foundations. Some of the thoroughfares are too narrow for fire trucks to drive down in case of emergency. Reconstruction will also help safeguard the city in case of earthquakes. The government has invested three billion yuan for the five-year remodeling work. The program also calls for residents to design walls, interior rooms, and the decoration themselves.