Yunnan 18 Oddities: Automobiles move faster than trains
Yunnan 18 Oddities: Trains go abroad but not inland

One of the most commonly cited “Eighteen Oddities of Yunnan” is that “automobiles move faster than trains” (火车没有汽车快). This oddity stems from the unique historical and geographical factors affecting the railways in Yunnan.

Historical Background: The Yunnan-Vietnam Railway

The saying that “trains move slower than automobiles” largely originates from the Yunnan-Vietnam Railway (滇越铁路). This railway was constructed from 1901 to 1910, spanning 854 kilometers from Kunming to Haiphong, with 465 kilometers in Yunnan and 389 kilometers in Vietnam. The railway, funded by the French, was a significant engineering feat, costing approximately 158,466,888 French francs and involving over 64,000 workers.

Despite its historical importance as the first international railway in China, the Yunnan-Vietnam Railway is characterized by its narrow gauge (one meter) and the challenging terrain it traverses. This resulted in a slower train speed, making automobiles on the newly constructed roads faster by comparison.

Engineering Challenges

Yunnan’s rugged terrain, with an average elevation of over 2,000 meters, poses significant challenges for railway construction. The Yunnan-Vietnam Railway, for instance, navigates steep gradients and sharp curves, making speed control crucial for safety. Additionally, the railway’s construction includes numerous tunnels (150) and bridges (173), with the renowned “Human-shaped Bridge” at Hekou being a notable example of engineering prowess.

Comparisons with Automobiles

With the advent of roads and the introduction of automobiles in the early 20th century, the speed advantage of cars became apparent. Automobiles could navigate the region’s challenging topography more flexibly and at higher speeds compared to the narrow gauge trains. For instance, while a train journey from Kunming to Kaiyuan might take around 8 hours, the same trip by car could take approximately 5 hours.

Modern Railway Developments

While the older narrow gauge trains were slow, newer standard gauge railways like the Guikun Railway (贵昆线) and Chengkun Railway (成昆线) also face significant speed limitations due to the difficult terrain. The Chengkun Railway, for example, is famous for its extensive use of tunnels and bridges, with 48 kilometers of the 66-kilometer stretch between Ebian and Wushenghe stations consisting of tunnels.

The Future of Yunnan’s Railways

Despite these challenges, there are efforts to modernize and improve railway speeds in Yunnan. For instance, there are plans to repurpose parts of the historical railways for tourism, enhancing their cultural and historical value. The establishment of a railway museum in Kaiyuan aims to educate visitors about the historical significance and technological evolution of rail transport in Yunnan.

Yunnan 18 Oddities: Trains Go Abroad but Not Inland

Another related oddity is that “trains go abroad but not inland” (火车不通国内通国外), highlighting the historical peculiarity of Yunnan’s railway connections.

The Yunnan-Vietnam Railway’s Historical Significance

As the first international railway in China, the Yunnan-Vietnam Railway facilitated trade and cultural exchange between Yunnan and Southeast Asia. While this international connection was significant, it also meant that for many years, Yunnan had better railway links to Vietnam than to other parts of China.

Limited Domestic Railway Network

Historically, Yunnan’s domestic railway network was limited. The challenging terrain and the high costs associated with railway construction in the region meant that extensive domestic railway connections developed more slowly. This left Yunnan relatively isolated from the rest of China’s railway network for much of the early 20th century.

Modern Developments

In recent decades, significant efforts have been made to expand Yunnan’s domestic railway network. Modern standard gauge railways like the Guikun and Chengkun lines have improved connectivity, but the historical legacy of limited domestic connections compared to international ones remains a notable aspect of Yunnan’s railway history.

Conclusion

The oddities that “automobiles move faster than trains” and “trains go abroad but not inland” reflect the unique historical, geographical, and cultural context of Yunnan. These peculiarities highlight the challenges and achievements in developing transportation infrastructure in this mountainous and diverse region. Despite these challenges, Yunnan continues to evolve, integrating its rich historical legacy with modern advancements in transportation.

The oddity “Grannies climb mountains faster than monkeys” (老太爬山比猴快) humorously emphasizes the agility and stamina of elderly women (grannies) in Yunnan, suggesting they can ascend mountains more swiftly than monkeys. This playful saying likely underscores the resilience and vigor often associated with elderly individuals in the region, highlighting their remarkable physical capabilities despite their age. It’s a testament to the vitality and active lifestyle traditionally embraced by older generations in Yunnan.

The oddity “Green vegetables are called ‘bitter vegetables'” (青菜叫苦菜) refers to a local colloquialism in Yunnan where the term “青菜” (qīngcài), which generally translates to “green vegetables” in Mandarin, is commonly referred to as “苦菜” (kǔcài) instead. This naming convention reflects the fact that many green vegetables in Yunnan cuisine have a slightly bitter taste profile. It’s a regional linguistic nuance that adds to the cultural and culinary identity of Yunnan, where bitter flavors are appreciated and incorporated into various dishes.

The oddity “Girls carry tobacco bags” (女孩背烟袋) from the Yunnan 18 Oddities highlights a cultural practice where young girls in Yunnan, especially among certain ethnic groups, traditionally carry small tobacco pouches or bags. These pouches are often intricately decorated and serve both practical and symbolic purposes. Historically, tobacco has been an important part of Yunnan’s culture, with various ethnic communities cultivating and using it for ceremonial, social, and personal reasons. Carrying tobacco bags by girls could symbolize cultural identity, community affiliation, and sometimes readiness for social interactions where tobacco might be shared or exchanged.

The oddity “Girls wear flowers in all four seasons” (女孩四季鲜花戴) from the Yunnan 18 Oddities refers to the cultural practice where girls and women in Yunnan often adorn their hair with flowers throughout the year. This tradition is rooted in local ethnic customs and adds a distinctive charm to the region’s cultural identity. It reflects Yunnan’s rich biodiversity and the significance of flowers in daily life, not just as decorations but also symbolizing natural beauty and harmony.

The “Yunnan 18 Oddities” (云南十八怪, Yúnnán Shíbā Guài) highlight the unique and sometimes contradictory aspects of Yunnan Province in China. The observation that “it rains here but shines there” (这里下雨那边晒）suggests the local weather phenomenon where rain showers can be localized. It implies that while it may rain heavily in one area of Yunnan, another nearby area might be sunny or experience only light precipitation. This quirk reflects the region’s diverse climate and topography, which can lead to varying weather conditions over short distances.

The “Yunnan 18 Oddities” (云南十八怪, Yúnnán Shíbā Guài) are a collection of quirky and distinctive characteristics or observations about Yunnan Province, China. One of these peculiarities is that “toes are exposed all year round” (脚趾常年露在外, Quán nián lù jiǎozhǐ). This observation humorously points out that due to Yunnan’s mild climate, people can wear open-toed shoes or sandals throughout the year without discomfort from cold weather. It reflects the province’s generally temperate climate and the casual lifestyle that allows for such attire flexibility.

The “Yunnan 18 Oddities” (云南十八怪, Yúnnán Shíbā Guài) are a set of traditional anecdotes or observations about peculiarities in Yunnan Province, China. One of these oddities is the humorous observation that “automobiles move faster than trains” (汽车比火车快, Qìchē bǐ huǒchē kuài). This may reflect historical or local situations where road transportation, due to terrain or infrastructure, might be more efficient or faster than railway transport in certain contexts or routes within Yunnan Province. It highlights a contrast that might seem unusual or unexpected in transportation efficiency compared to other regions or modes of travel.

The “Yunnan 18 Oddities” (云南十八怪, Yúnnán Shíbā Guài) refers to a collection of unique cultural and natural phenomena traditionally associated with Yunnan Province in China. One of these peculiarities is the practice of addressing young girls as “Lao Tai” (老太), which translates to “old lady” or “granny” in English. This custom reflects a cultural tendency in Yunnan where terms of endearment or casual addresses may not align with typical expectations based on age or appearance. It’s a notable example of how local customs and language can diverge from broader cultural norms.

In Yunnan, the climate is often described as spring-like year-round, particularly in regions like Kunming, which is known as the “City of Eternal Spring.” This temperate climate allows for a unique cultural and agricultural lifestyle. Here’s a closer look at the implications of this climate on clothing and the tea culture in Yunnan:

Clothing in Yunnan’s Spring-Like Climate

1. Year-Round Garments:
   • Traditional Dress: Many ethnic groups in Yunnan wear traditional clothing that can be suitable for all seasons. For example, lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton and linen are commonly used, which provide comfort in warmer weather and can be layered for cooler temperatures.
   • Adaptability: Clothing designs often allow for layering. People might add shawls, jackets, or vests that can be easily taken off as temperatures rise during the day, which is a practical approach to the region’s fluctuating daily temperatures.
2. Fashion Trends:
   • Colorful and Functional: Traditional attire often features bright colors and intricate embroidery, making them suitable for various occasions while being comfortable for daily wear.
   • Cultural Significance: Many garments carry cultural significance and are often worn during festivals and gatherings, showcasing the region’s rich heritage.

Tea Culture in Yunnan

1. Ideal Growing Conditions:
   • Yunnan’s climate is favorable for tea cultivation, with ample rainfall, well-drained soil, and moderate temperatures. This makes it possible to harvest tea leaves throughout the year, contributing to the region’s reputation as a major tea producer, particularly for Pu’er tea and Yunnan black tea.
2. Diverse Tea Varieties:
   • The continuous growing season allows for a rich diversity of tea varieties, including green, black, and fermented teas. Yunnan is renowned for its Pu’er tea, which is made from a unique variety of tea leaves and undergoes a distinct aging process, giving it complex flavors.
3. Tea Culture and Lifestyle:
   • Tea is a significant part of everyday life in Yunnan. It is not just a beverage but also a social activity, with tea houses serving as communal gathering places.
   • The year-round availability of tea means that it is often enjoyed during different seasons, enhancing the daily experience of locals and visitors alike.

The spring-like climate of Yunnan, characterized by mild temperatures and abundant rainfall, allows for both a year-round dressing style and a thriving tea culture. The adaptability of traditional clothing reflects the practical needs of the climate, while the continuous cultivation of tea showcases the region’s agricultural richness. Together, these elements create a vibrant cultural tapestry that is unique to Yunnan.

The oddity “Dali Baba is called Erkuai” (大理粑粑叫饵块) refers to a local culinary tradition in Dali, Yunnan, where “Erkuai” (饵块) is a type of rice cake made from rice that is steamed and then pounded into a flat, stretchy dough. It is a staple food in the region and is often eaten with various toppings or as part of savory dishes. The term “Dali Baba” (大理粑粑), loosely translated as “father of Dali,” likely emphasizes the cultural significance of Erkuai as a beloved and iconic food item associated with the region.

Yunnan 18 Oddities: Bamboo is Used to Make Water Pipes for Smoking

Yunnan is rich in bamboo resources, and its utilization is widespread across various aspects of daily life, including bamboo stilt houses, bamboo chairs, and bamboo hats. However, the most distinctive use of bamboo is for making water pipes for smoking (竹烟筒).

Bamboo Water Pipes for Smoking

The bamboo water pipe is a unique and characteristic feature of Yunnan culture. When smoke passes through the water-filled bamboo tube, it produces a rhythmic bubbling sound, which not only moistens the throat but also adds an audible and visual dimension to the smoking experience. This method of smoking has become an integral part of Yunnan’s cultural identity, earning the saying “bamboo tubes are used as smoking pipes” (竹筒当烟袋) in the list of Yunnan’s eighteen oddities.

Cultural Significance and Craftsmanship

In traditional Yunnan villages, many households possess water pipes of varying shapes and materials. Particularly noteworthy are the wooden water pipes from Jiejie Township in Xichou County, Wenshan Prefecture. This area is known as the birthplace of wooden water pipes, and the craftsmanship has been passed down for over a century, blending utility with artistry. These pipes are often intricately carved with scenes of nature, such as mountains, flowers, bamboo, pines, dragons, phoenixes, and animals. The detailed craftsmanship makes these pipes prized possessions.

Historical and Regional Spread

The bamboo water pipe, described in historical texts like “Yan Pu” (烟谱), highlights the technique of using bamboo close to its root, igniting it and inhaling the smoke after passing through water. This method purifies the smoke, making it less harsh. The practice, originating in Yunnan, spread to Sichuan and Guizhou in the early 18th century, becoming popular across the Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau.

Types of Water Pipes

Water pipes are categorized based on their material: bamboo, bakelite, and wood. Bamboo water pipes have the longest history and are widely used. The wooden water pipes from Xichou have evolved to become more refined and elaborate, opening up new markets and gaining popularity.

Artisan Legacy

Artisan Wang Enhua from Chayechong Village, Jiejie Township, Xichou, continues the family tradition of making water pipes, which has a history of nearly 130 years. Starting from a young age, Wang Enhua learned the craft from his father, mastering it by his twenties. His family’s pipes are known for their high quality and intricate designs, preserving the legacy of bamboo water pipes in Yunnan.

Yunnan Travel Guide

Things To Do

• Yunnan Overview
• Yunnan Attractions
• Yunnan Tours
• Yunnan Shopping
• Yunnan Culture
• Festivals and Activities

Travel Information

• Yunnan Travel Tips
• Yunnan Climate
• Yunnan Transportation
• Yunnan Maps
• Yunnan Photos
• Yunnan Dining
• Yunnan Accommodation
• Yunnan Education
• Yunnan Travel News
• Administrative Divisions

Create My Trip

You Might Like

• 11 Days West Yunnan Overland Tour from Mangshi
• 8 Days Yunnan Speed Train Tour (Lijiang-ShangriLa-Shaxi-Dali-Kunming)
• 14 Days Yunnan Cycling Tour along The Old Burma Road from Kunming to Ruili
• 15 Days Yunnan-Tibet Small Group Tour with Mount Everest Adventure
• 10 Days Yunnan Tour with Shaxi Ancien Town (Kunming-Dali-Shaxi-Lijiang-ShangriLa)
• 4 Days Jingpo Ethnic Minority’s Munao Zongge Festival Tour
• 10 Days Yunnan Classic Tour with the Upper Yangtze River Rafting Tour
• 5 Days Kunming Golf Tour with Spring City Golf and Dianchi Lake View Golf

Article of Yunnan Tour, Yunnan Travel, Yunnan Travel Agency, Yunnan Trip, Yunnan Guide

Trains go abroad but not inland

Yunnan 18 Oddities: Automobiles move faster than trains Yunnan 18 Oddities: Trains go abroad but not inland One of the most commonly cited “Eighteen Oddities of Yunnan” is that...

Yunnan Eighteen Oddities    Veiw

Yunnan 18 Oddities: Grannies climb mountains faster than monkeys

The oddity “Grannies climb mountains faster than monkeys” (老太爬山比猴快) humorously emphasizes the agility and stamina of elderly women (grannies) in Yunnan, suggesting they can ascend mountains more swiftly than...

Yunnan Eighteen Oddities    Veiw

Yunnan 18 Oddities: Green vegetables are called “bitter vegetables”

The oddity “Green vegetables are called ‘bitter vegetables'” (青菜叫苦菜) refers to a local colloquialism in Yunnan where the term “青菜” (qīngcài), which generally translates to “green vegetables” in Mand...

Yunnan Eighteen Oddities    Veiw

Yunnan 18 Oddities: Girls carry tobacco bags

The oddity “Girls carry tobacco bags” (女孩背烟袋) from the Yunnan 18 Oddities highlights a cultural practice where young girls in Yunnan, especially among certain ethnic groups, traditionally carry small...

Yunnan Eighteen Oddities    Veiw

Yunnan 18 Oddities: Girls wear flowers in all four seasons

The oddity “Girls wear flowers in all four seasons” (女孩四季鲜花戴) from the Yunnan 18 Oddities refers to the cultural practice where girls and women in Yunnan often adorn their...

Yunnan Eighteen Oddities    Veiw

Yunnan 18 Oddities: It rains here but shines there

The “Yunnan 18 Oddities” (云南十八怪, Yúnnán Shíbā Guài) highlight the unique and sometimes contradictory aspects of Yunnan Province in China. The observation that “it rains here but shines there”...

Yunnan Eighteen Oddities    Veiw

Yunnan 18 Oddities: Toes are exposed all year round

The “Yunnan 18 Oddities” (云南十八怪, Yúnnán Shíbā Guài) are a collection of quirky and distinctive characteristics or observations about Yunnan Province, China. One of these peculiarities is that “toes...

Yunnan Eighteen Oddities    Veiw

Yunnan 18 Oddities: Automobiles move faster than trains

The “Yunnan 18 Oddities” (云南十八怪, Yúnnán Shíbā Guài) are a set of traditional anecdotes or observations about peculiarities in Yunnan Province, China. One of these oddities is the humorous...

Yunnan Eighteen Oddities    Veiw

Yunnan 18 Oddities: Young girls are called “Lao Tai”

The “Yunnan 18 Oddities” (云南十八怪, Yúnnán Shíbā Guài) refers to a collection of unique cultural and natural phenomena traditionally associated with Yunnan Province in China. One of these peculiarities...

Yunnan Eighteen Oddities    Veiw

The same dress is worn for all four seasons

In Yunnan, the climate is often described as spring-like year-round, particularly in regions like Kunming, which is known as the “City of Eternal Spring.” This temperate climate allows for...

Yunnan Eighteen Oddities    Veiw

Yunnan 18 Oddities: Dali Baba is called Erkuai

The oddity “Dali Baba is called Erkuai” (大理粑粑叫饵块) refers to a local culinary tradition in Dali, Yunnan, where “Erkuai” (饵块) is a type of rice cake made from rice...

Yunnan Eighteen Oddities    Veiw

Yunnan 18 Oddities: Bamboo is used to make water pipes for smoking

Yunnan 18 Oddities: Bamboo is Used to Make Water Pipes for Smoking Yunnan is rich in bamboo resources, and its utilization is widespread across various aspects of daily life,...

Yunnan Eighteen Oddities    Veiw