Kunming / English Version

Author: Wu Zhaojun
Translator: Jin Shaoqing et al.
Publisher:
Publish Date: 1999-06-01
Features: This is a travel guidebook written entirely in English, introducing Kunming, the city where "the weather is always like March or April, and flowers bloom all year round." It describes the phenology of Kunming, where grass grows lushly, egrets fly, peach blossoms and willows are vibrant, mountains and waters are picturesque, and flowers are in full bloom. It discusses the city's history, culture, and scenic spots, highlights its distinctive local specialties, and introduces hotels and restaurants. This is a travel guidebook written in English, providing detailed information for tourists visiting Kunming: life information, history, transportation, attractions, shopping, dining, etc., making it a reliable and safe companion for your Kunming trip.
Excerpt:
China is home to a total of 56 different nationalities. The Han nationality is by far the most numerous, while the other 55 nationalities are usually called ethnic minorities. The population of the Han nationality accounts for 92 percent of China's total population. The Zhuang, Hui, Manchu, and Mongolian nationalities are the most populous among the minority groups. Yunnan is not only endowed with rich natural resources but also with a wealth of human resources. The traditional customs and cultures of the 25 ethnic groups in the province have become the most famous attractions for both domestic and international tourists. These tourist resources are not only significant within the country but also play an important role in the world. As the former director of the World Tourism Organization said, "It is rare in the world to find so many different nationalities living harmoniously and peacefully in one province." He pointed out that these are precious tourist resources and should be well protected and developed. As these nationalities live in diverse geographical conditions and have different histories, cultural backgrounds, lifestyles, and religions, they have developed and maintained their own unique traditions and customs. Yunnan province has the largest population of ethnic minority people in China, totaling 13.35 million. There are 25 minority groups in the province, each with a population of over 5,000 and living in relatively compact areas. They are the Yi, Bai, Han, Zhuang, Dai, Miao, Lisu, Hui, Lahu, Wa, Naxi, Yao, Tibetan, Jingpo, Bouyei, Pumi, Nu, Achang, De'ang, Jino, Shui, Mongolian, Blang, Drung, and Manchu. The population of these minorities makes up one-third of the province's total population. Moreover, from the different nationalities, various aspects of human development in different histories can be traced. Therefore, Yunnan province is also known as the "living specimen of human society development." In the long history of evolution, different nationalities have formed their own unique traditions, covering weddings, funerals, food, clothing, festivals, and alcohol, thus becoming a fascinating tourist attraction for both domestic and international travelers.
At present, many ethnic minorities have settled in the Kunming area, including Han, Yi, Miao, Bai, Hui, Naxi, and Han. Meanwhile, people from all 25 minority groups in Yunnan province can also be found in Kunming.
In Kunming, there are currently four major religions practiced: Buddhism, Taoism, Islam, and Christianity. All these religions and their different branches coexist peacefully. Each has its own unique religious beliefs. There are also a number of primitive religions practiced among some ethnic groups. Islam was introduced into Yunnan around 1253. Christianity was first introduced into Yunnan by an English missionary from Shanghai in 1877. Since then, missionaries from America, England, Canada, and Australia have all come to the province and began missionary work in many ethnic minority areas. Many religions are now being practiced in China, and Chinese citizens have the freedom to believe in religions.