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Kyrgyzstan, one of the most undeveloped countries of the former Soviet Union, is a place that foreigners seldom visit. Located on the western border of China, the small country boasts a unique and proud culture. The Native Kyrgyz, a traditionally nomadic Turkic people, have maintained their traditional culture to a remarkable extent and are proud of their country's natural beauty.
Bishkek, the capital city, does not appear much different than any other post Soviet city on the outside. Most of the buildings are bleak concrete structures. However, even in Bishkek, if one looks underneath the surface, there are some remarkable sights. One of these is Bishkek's large outdoor bazaars. Fresh fruit and vegetable stands, where the owners hawk produce to those passing by can be found everywhere. The larger bazaars also host Kyrgyz traditional crafts, such as intricate handmade felt rugs known as shyrdaks and engraved leather paintings. Walking through the bazaar, it is common to see chess games carrying out in the middle of the street or musicians playing the local guitar-like instrument, the komuz.
As one leaves the capital behind, it feels like one has stepped into the past. In Kyrgyzstan's rural villagers, it is more common to see people riding horses or donkey carts than it is to see villagers driving cars. Everyone in the village practices subsistence farming, converting small yards into productive gardens and sheep corrals. Early in the morning, a designated sheep herder will gather the village's sheep and bring them to mountain pastures to graze for the day.