Kunming is named the “city of eternal spring” for a temperate climate and flowers blooming all year round. The capital of Yunnan has more to offer than most provincial cities, with its unique history, its many attractions, and its overall atmosphere. It is among China’s most developed cities, but has been careful to translate that prosperity into keeping the city and its surrounding area beautiful. In addition, the clash of cultures playing out on the city’s streets is impressive even for Yunnan, which is home to about half of China’s minorities.

Kunming’s history stretches back 2,000 years making it witness to the rise and fall of the many kingdoms and dynasties affecting the area. It was when the Mongols took over most of China under Genghis Khan that the city first received its name. The city was also subject to much damage in the 19th century, during the Ming dynasty, when the Sultan of Dali led several attacks against its walls in his Muslim rebellion. The struggle dragged on for 15 years before the Sultan’s revolt was put down, and Kunming was allowed a period of relative peace. Britian and France exploited the area for its abundant natural resources at the turn of the century, and the Allies and Nationalists relied much on Kunming as a base for their fight against the Japanese and later the Communists. The contention between Ancient Chinese, Muslim, and Western influences makes the city much of what it is today.

Kunming is on a plateau surrounded on all sides by the Wumeng mountains, except for where it faces the Dianchi Lake, Yunnan’s largest. It is the warm monsoon air of the Bay of Bengals, and the cool breeze and moisture of the mountains that is cause for Kunmings comfortable temperatures. These conditions made it the choice for the 1999 International Horticultural Exposition, housing displays from all the provinces of China, Taiwan, and 34 countries. Exhibition of flowers, however, are everywhere to be found, both the carefully kept and the naturally beautiful.

Sites to see include the 1,000 year old Yuantong temple of the Mahayana, Theravada, and Tibetan sects. Golden Temple Park contains a bell tower with China’s largest ancient bell, and the Golden Temple itself is China’s largest bronze temple. Close to Kunming are areas of extraordinary natural beauty such as the “wonder of the world” Stone Forest, where jagged pillars of stone jut into the sky.

From the people, to the sights, to the cuisine, Kunming is a must see, especially if in the south of China. It is also an excellent gateway to Vietnam, Loas, Burma, and the rest of Southeast Asia.