Beijing is eager for the area to regain its popularity. State media have run numerous cheerful pieces on life returning to normal.
“A trickle of Chinese tourists began arriving in ethnic Tibetan areas of west China over the May Day holiday, sparking hopes of a revival in the tourism industry after the unrest in March,” read one report by Xinhua.
“Lhasa seems busier and livelier than what I imagined,” tourist Wang Fujun from Chengdu was quoted as saying on Xinhua as he snapped photos outside the Potala Palace.
But that impression seemed an exaggeration in Xiahe.
“Since what happened in March, no one dares to come here anymore,” said a roadside fruit and vegetable vendor, who, like many refused to give his name for fear of retaliation from authorities.
“At this time of the year, the streets, hotels are all usually full. I normally sell all my produce in one day,” the vendor said, pointing to strawberries and watermelons piled next to leeks and lettuces. “Now, it takes me three days to sell the same amount.” Shopkeepers sit listlessly behind glass counters or in front of their stores, chatting with neighbors. Tibetan coin-studded leather belts, popular with Japanese tourists, hang unsold in a tiny store.
Eateries offer only limited menus, the lack of customers discouraging owners from buying food.
“Last year, this place was full everyday. Tourists from all over China, as well as France, Germany, England,” said the owner of a 50-seat cafe serving a local specialty of beef fried rice along with Western-style chicken burgers and french fries. “This year? Nobody.”
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