BEIJING, July 15 -- The Muslim holy month of Ramadan continues until next week. Muslims in northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region have been observing the month in peace, according to tradition. Believers follow the decree of fasting between sunrise and sunset. Still, many shops in Xinjiang are keeping busy, as many visitors have been drawn to the region.

A month of blessing marked by prayer, fasting, and charity. Ramadan is one of the pillars of the Muslim faith. Despite a magnitude-6.5 earthquake on July 3, Muslims in a village in Pishan County continue to have morning prayer at 6:30. Only a dozen villagers are there. Most others have been working in rescue and relief. The imam sees everything as a community effort.

"After the worship yesterday, I told everyone that we have to hold on and we cannot lose confidence," Imam From local mosque said.

In Changji Hui Autonomous Prefecture, the busy harvest season has not kept the Muslims from the daily five prayers.

Many Muslim vendors in the regional capital Urumqi also have continued normal business during Ramadan.

In this bazaar, delicious food and exquisite handiwork have attracted more than 3,000 buyers from across China.

"The food is delicious, and I like it very much. I will come back to Urumqi, and Xinjiang," Visitor from Liaoning province Liu Xinmei said.

Ramadan ends on July 18th this year. After that, Muslims around the world will celebrate Eid al-Fitr. The festival begins with morning prayers and is followed by feasting and celebrations with family and friends.