Morning market gives a taste of tradition
A growing reputation sees flocks of visitors brave the chilly weather to select their treats, Li Yingxue reports in Shenyang.
The sudden surge in tourists also presented challenges. Netizens have been offering suggestions for better service, prompting Liu Kebin, director of Shenyang's municipal bureau of culture and tourism, to open an account on the social media platform Xiaohongshu, where he personally responds to and records messages from netizens.
Responding to feedback, a free luggage storage area was set up at the market, making it easier for visitors to explore without carrying heavy bags. Additionally, on Feb 2, the Xiaoheyan Visitor Service Center was established to provide seating for customers, especially in the cold weather.
During Spring Festival, the visitor service center, which normally opens at 6:30 am, started welcoming guests around 5.
Xu Tongxiang, a staffer of the service center, woke up at 4 every day to ensure visitors didn't freeze outdoors.
"On Lunar New Year's Eve and the following day, there weren't many people, and many stalls chose to close. But from the third day onward, the number of visitors skyrocketed," Xu says.
The current visitor center, covering an area of about 135 square meters, offers free luggage storage and dining facilities for over 50 people. "We provide free use of tables and chairs, a microwave for heating meals, and free hot water and chargers," she adds.
Originally an office and rest area for gardeners, the place had not been open to the public. After visitors proposed the idea, it was swiftly transformed into the service center.
Recalling last year's Tomb Sweeping Festival, Xu noticed an increase in customers at Xiaoheyan. Besides locals, many college students studying in Shenyang visit to enjoy affordable delicacies.
