The Fu Ling Weekly Market

Nowadays, it may seem like everyone in China lives in a big city. But that definitely is not true. Many villages are emptying as more and more people migrate in search of a better life, but small-town life still is flourishing in pockets of China.

Take Fu Ling, for example. Once a week, the people of this southern Chinese village get together to sell their wares in a market. Local produce, as well as household goods, are sold under one roof. For me, the Fu Ling market offered a great look into a way of life that is in slow decline. Given that the average age of salespeople in Fu Ling was north of fifty, I doubt this market will exist in thirty years. But for now, it is still thriving.

The outdoor section of the Fu Ling market.

A salesman of food and cookery makes his pitch.

A chicken salesperson moves her stock.

Daikon (大根, literally "big root") is a type of Chinese radish.

Many greens for sale.

Tarps protect against frequent rain.

Cassava root.

I'm not sure what this vegetable is called.

Spices for sale.

I love the craftsmanship that still exists among the older generation in China. This guy is hand-carving handles for his hoes. I doubt you'll see this kind of thing for much longer.

Knives and files for sale.

More photos from Fu Ling