Kunming Place Name Encyclopedia

Author: Wu Guangfan
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2005-01-01
Features: This book is written by Wu Guangfan, one of the most influential toponymists in China. Based on extensive and in-depth research, it comprehensively includes all Kunming place names, combining history to discuss the past and present, showcasing the development of the Kunming region. It not only facilitates the lookup of place names but also serves as an important resource for studying the history of Kunming's development. As the capital of Yunnan, the political, economic, and cultural center, as well as a crucial transportation hub, this book examines the etymology of Kunming place names, reflecting important information about the province as a whole. It explores the long-established Kunming place names, including historical designations such as Yizhou Commandery, Jinning Commandery, Shanchuan Prefecture, and Yanning City, as well as the numerous new place names that have emerged since the reform and opening-up. It provides detailed introductions to the existing place names in Kunming's urban areas and elaborates on the place names of counties, cities, and villages in Kunming, especially those around the Dianchi Lake, in line with the new development of the Dianchi Lake urban system. It examines the ethnic context, origins, meanings, and evolution of all place names in the city, using place names as a medium to present multidimensional and practical information about the history of Yunnan and Kunming, enhancing the book's breadth, knowledge, and interest. It also contributes to the preservation of various place names during urbanization, preventing the artificial extinction of important historical place names due to their lack of recognition. Additionally, it helps people understand the origins of new urban place names, the development of modern Kunming, the growth of the tourism industry, and the improvement of its cultural standards.