A Yi Wang

"A-yi-wang", a unique architecture style, is the essence of Uygur folk residences of xinjiang region. The architecture style of "A-yi-wang" enjoys about 2000 years of history, with obvious ethical and local color. "A-yi-wang" means "bright place" in Uygur language. Rooms of Uygur residences are usually connected together with courtyards around. In the construction, the part attached with clearstories is called "A-yi-wang" or "Summer Room (Xiashi)", which can be used as living-room or reception room; the other part without windows is called "Winter Room (Dongshi)", which acts as bedroom. The layout of the residence is flexible. Several niches are set inside the room as ornament and walls are largely decorated with gesso carvings.

A-yi-wang is a room in form, but an outdoor stage in function. It acts as a big courtyard attached with clearstory and is suitable to hold daily outdoor activities, receive guests, and hold parties. To receive the guests in A-yi-wang shows the great respect of the host towards the guests, who may sit down with legs crossed and share the delicate food offered by the host.

Besides A-yi-wang, there are another two types of open courtyard of Xingjiang Uygur folk residences -"Pi-xi A-yi-wang" and "A-ke-sai-nai". This is related to the local custom that local people mainly takes outdoor courtyards as the living center.