Sound Postcard 08 // Kashgar Livestock Market
Soundscape field recordings of the Cattle Market in Kashgar (Xinjian, China), which takes place once a week on Sunday. It is known to be one of the largest livestock markets in Central Asia. Recorded in July 2011.
Lonely Planet puts it well:
"The day begins with Uyghur farmers and herders trekking into the city from nearby villages. By lunchtime just about every sellable sheep, camel, horse, cow and donkey within 50km has been squeezed through the bazaar gates. It’s dusty, smelly and crowded, and most people find it wonderful, though the treatment of the animals often leaves something to be desired.
Trading at the market is swift and boisterous between the old traders; animals are carefully inspected and haggling is done with finger motions. Keep an ear out for the phrase ‘Bosh-bosh! ’ (‘Coming through!’) or you risk being ploughed over by a cartload of fat-tailed sheep."
Here are a few shots to keep you entertained whilst you listen (© Ángel Pérez):
