The delicate and intricate wood carvings of insects, such as a beetle about to take flight, a mantis in motion, and a cocoon covered in fine hairs, embody the essence of traditional wood carving from Simao (思茅), Puer City (普洱市), Yunnan Province. These works, masterfully created with life-like precision, feature fine details such as the antennae of a woodcarver’s tools or the translucent patterns between insect wings. This wood carving craft, passed down through generations, is an important example of intangible cultural heritage.

The History and Development of Traditional Wood Carving

Simao’s traditional wood carving skills have a rich history. These techniques have also integrated elements of the diverse ethnic cultures in the region, which has contributed to the development of a unique folk art form. According to the Simao Ancient City records, between 1915 and 1920, during the peak of Simao’s commerce, many shops specializing in wood, silver, iron, and leather flourished. These shops catered to the needs of mule caravans and offered saddle frames, leather goods, and copper and iron products. Skilled woodworkers created furniture, palanquins, folding screens, and decorative carvings in their workshops.

The Process of Wood Carving

As described by Fei Yao (费遥), an inheritor of Simao’s traditional wood carving techniques, the process of creating a complete wood carving is time-consuming and labor-intensive. Each piece is a product of the sculptor’s craftsmanship and creativity. The carving process involves several steps, including composition, rough carving, fine detailing, polishing, decorative carving, coloring, glossing, and mounting or creating a display scene. The materials used are typically dense, hard woods that are resistant to deformation, and the tools required are numerous and varied.

In February 2023, Simao’s traditional wood carving techniques were included as a representative project of Puer City’s sixth batch of municipal-level intangible cultural heritage.

Cultural Significance and Innovation

Simao’s traditional wood carvings serve as an important cultural symbol, bearing the weight of history and reflecting the local people’s desire for a better life. These carvings also hold significant research value for the study of Simao’s history, craftsmanship, and cultural development. Today, Simao’s wood carvings are displayed at various provincial and municipal exhibitions. A 1:1 miniature wood carving of a Dai (傣) traditional stilt house has been collected by the Ethnic Culture Museum at Puer College, marking a new phase of creative transformation and innovative development in the art form.

In recent years, the Simao Cultural and Tourism Bureau has actively promoted the registration of traditional craftsmanship as intangible cultural heritage and has transformed outstanding heritage into high-quality tourist resources. This integration of heritage and tourism is intended to inject new vitality into the cultural and tourism industry of the region.

Puer’s Distinctive Woodcut Art: The Limited Edition Woodcut Prints

The Technique of Limited Edition Multi-Color Woodcuts

Limited edition multi-color woodcuts, a type of relief print, is a technique where multiple colors are applied to a single woodblock. According to Professor Ye Gongxian’s (叶公贤) book Basic Printmaking, the technique is described as follows: “Using the same block, several layers of color are printed by carving the block multiple times. The first step is to carve the lightest color, then print it. Afterward, a second layer is carved and printed, followed by a third. The result is a piece with three colors. The advantage of this method is that it reduces the need for multiple blocks, but the downside is that the block is destroyed after the final layer is printed, making the work a limited edition.”

In Puer, this technique became known as “destroyed plate prints,” as the plate is carved and printed until it is unusable. This unique feature distinguishes it from traditional multi-block color printing, where the blocks are preserved after use.

Artistic Evolution and International Influence

In the 1980s, as the limited edition woodcut technique was evolving, artists began to incorporate influences from other printmaking techniques, as well as from painting styles, which allowed for more innovative and expressive works. These artists embraced bold colors, primitive forms, and a strong sense of decoration, combining these with the local cultural heritage to create powerful, expressive artworks. This approach broke free from the traditional limitations of printmaking and shifted the art form closer to true painting.

Artists like Zheng Xu, He Kun, Wei Qicong, and Zhang Xiaochun not only drew inspiration from Western modern art movements like Expressionism and Primitivism but also infused their works with the local cultural context of Yunnan’s ethnic communities. Their works, which range from geometric patterns to abstract landscapes, have gained widespread recognition and have won numerous awards at national art exhibitions.

Zheng Xu’s work, Lahu Wind and Dye (拉祜风情·染) and Market Day (赶街天), which won a gold medal at the 1984 National Art Exhibition, exemplifies the artist’s ability to blend geometric patterns from Lahu (拉祜族) ethnic clothing with bold, contrasting colors. This combination represents not only the distinctiveness of Lahu culture but also the artist’s understanding of their cultural spirit.

Wei Qicong’s Village Scene (村寨), which won a gold medal at the 1987 National Art Exhibition, uses the structure of a stilt house in a Yunnan village as the central theme. The work transforms these geometric shapes into a rich composition of points, lines, and planes, creating an abstract yet powerful depiction of the landscape.

He Kun’s Autumn Song: Bleaching Land (秋歌·发白的土地) is another example of how limited edition woodcuts can evoke a sense of the land’s spirit. Using ink wash techniques and applying color in layers, He Kun’s work creates a visual texture reminiscent of oil painting, enhancing the abstract qualities of the scene.

Zhang Xiaochun’s early works, such as Evening Flute (晚笛) and The Final Comfort of Sacrifices (牺牲品最后的慰藉), integrate elements from the Wa (佤族) and Aini (爱伲族) cultures, using bright, bold colors and geometric shapes to depict both human and animal forms. His later works, such as Dust of the World (风尘), returned to the everyday life of ethnic communities in southern Yunnan, continuing the exploration of cultural and existential themes.

The Legacy of Puer’s Limited Edition Woodcut Art

Today, the limited edition woodcut technique has spread beyond Puer and is widely recognized by printmakers across China and around the world. This distinctive style, developed from the blending of traditional methods with modern artistic thought, has become an integral part of modern Chinese printmaking. The impact of this unique regional style continues to be felt, as younger generations of artists continue to explore and refine the technique.

At present, the legacy of Puer’s limited edition woodcut technique is carried on by a new generation of artists who are both inheriting the methods of their predecessors and pushing the boundaries of this unique art form. Institutions such as Puer College have become centers for artistic education, while numerous private studios continue to innovate and push the boundaries of limited edition woodcut prints.

This dynamic, multi-faceted evolution of Puer’s woodcut art is a testament to its enduring cultural significance and its capacity to adapt and thrive in contemporary artistic contexts. As such, it remains a unique and valuable cultural resource for both artistic expression and regional heritage.

The news was updated on July 25, 2019. 

Every afternoon, crowds of young Western customers would get together at À Table, a French bakery and café not far from the Cuihu Park in central Kunming. Croissant, French sandwich and baguette are among the best sellers of this restaurant.

Getting up around 7 a.m. each day, Vincent, the owner of À Table, only prepares 20 baguettes each day, in order to make sure that every loaf that comes onto customers’ tables is as hot and fresh as it can be. “What I want to present is an authentic flavor which can be compared with any baked bread of France a century ago,” Vincent said. 

As a traditional and meticulous Frenchman, Vincent always keeps an eye on those details. “He felt in love with this old house when he saw it for the first time,” said Haiya, Vincent’s Chinese wife. “These brick flooring tiles and wooden walls combine perfectly with our desserts and coffee.”

“I enjoy my life in Yunnan very much,” said Vincent. And he is definitely not the only person that feels this way. In fact, quite a few French come to settle down on this land not merely because of its congenial climate, but the special historical and cultural tie between Yunnan and their homeland.

Yunnan, as a province near the French-controlled Indochina, used to be a popular destination for French adventurers back in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Many French readers thus have read about how fascinating Yunnan was via their reports and diaries.

A number of cultural similarities that Yunnan shares with France, such as the cultures of coffee and mushroom eating, are another factor which keeps enchanting the French nationals, just like Vincent.

It’s worth mentioning that the family of Vincent has a restaurant in France and what’s behind it is a forest rich in mushrooms. “Kunming is very similar to my hometown in this regard, and you can find various types of mushrooms within only half an hour’s drive,” he told us. “Bolete and Ganbajun are two of my favorite mushrooms in Yunnan.”

Other Yunnan-based French enjoy the province as much as Vincent does. While some of them run restaurants and hostels around tourist hubs or commercial districts, others prefer to live a “hermit” life in remote and mountainous areas where they can grow grapes, raspberries and a lot more farm products. “Those Raspberries topped on my cakes are all from their gardens,” Vincent told us.

À Table, meaning “the meal is ready” in French, now has become a major gathering place for the French community in Kunming, and anything in relation to Yunnan and France seems to be able to evoke customers’ interest here. Li Kunwu, for example, is a name frequently mentioned. As a Kunming-born comic writer, he is well-known for his work “Une vie chinoise” (translated as “A Chinese Life”) which is familiar to French comic readers. 

Now, Vincent can’t wait to brand his French family cooking among local Kunming citizens. “French Cooking is not always fancy and costly. A meal of about 15 Euros would also allow you to enjoy an unforgettable dining experience,” said Vincent. “I hope that food exchange could bring Yunnan and France closer than ever.”

Source from Yunnan Gateway

Yunnan Energy Investment Co., Ltd. Key Developments

The New was updated on July 24, 2019.

A pygmy slow loris, an endangered species of primates, was caught stealing bananas in a farmer’s field last week in southwest China’s Yunnan Province, and was set free after examination.

A local farmer in Yunnan’s Jinping County of Honghe Prefecture recently found several bite marks on his ripe bananas, and on the night of July 16, he discovered the thief – a small animal that looks like a monkey. The farmer placed the animal in a rabbit cage, and called local police for help.

Police and experts from the Jinping County Forest Public Security Bureau identified the animal as a pygmy slow loris, a rare animal under first-class state protection in China. After carefully examining the animal, the police found it in good health. They later set the loris free in the nearby Fenshuiling Nature Reserve.

Source from Yunnan Gateway.

Niusapie of Dai Minority in Puer

Chicken Rice of Wa Ethic Group in Puer

Burned Pig in Puer

Braising a Fish with Sour Bamboo Shoot in Puer

Introduction to Sour Ants (黄猄蚁)

The cold sour ant egg dish is a unique and traditional delicacy from the Jino ethnic group in Yunnan Province, particularly popular in Puer (普洱). The ants used for this dish belong to a species scientifically known as Oecophylla smaragdina, commonly referred to as “golden ants” (黄金蚁) due to their slender bodies, sharp mandibles, and the small yellow, acid-filled sacs under their abdomens. These ants, known as “sour ants” (酸蚂蚁), have medicinal properties and are used in traditional remedies. Their eggs are rich in protein and amino acids, making them a highly nutritious and sought-after food among the local Lahu (拉祜族) people who live by the Zhagan River (者干河畔).

The Tradition of Cold Sour Ant Eggs

Among Yunnan’s famous curiosities, one is the cold sour ant egg dish, a high-protein food that provides an unusual texture like popping pearls. Have you ever tried it?

Cold sour ant eggs are considered a rare and traditional Chinese delicacy. The dish is primarily made from ant eggs, which are laid by yellow ants living in trees. These eggs are not only delicious but also packed with high nutritional value. Known as a “natural protein powder,” ant eggs are rich in protein, fats, and vitamins, making them highly beneficial.

The process of making cold sour ant eggs begins by cooking the ant eggs in hot water, then mixing them with chili oil, soy sauce, vinegar, and other seasonings like onions, ginger, and garlic. The dish is beloved for its fresh, savory taste and unique texture, making it a standout among Yunnan’s local cuisine.

Nutritional Benefits of Ant Eggs

Ant eggs are a highly nutritious food source, often praised for their high levels of protein, fats, and essential vitamins. The nutritional value has earned them the nickname “natural protein powder.” For those seeking high-protein diets, ant eggs offer a nutritious and distinct culinary experience.

Three Main Ways to Eat Ant Eggs

There are three common methods to prepare and enjoy ant eggs, each offering its own flavor and texture.

1. Cold Sour Ant Eggs Salad

The most popular method of eating ant eggs is through a cold salad. First, the ant eggs are briefly blanched in hot water. They are then mixed with finely chopped tomatoes, onions, garlic, cilantro, and chili peppers. The combination of the fresh ingredients and the texture of the ant eggs makes this salad a refreshing and flavorful dish.

2. Steamed Ant Eggs with Banana Leaves

Another traditional way to enjoy ant eggs is by steaming them. The ant eggs are mixed with chopped onions, ginger, garlic, and green chili peppers, then wrapped in banana leaves. The parcels are steamed until cooked, infusing the dish with a subtle, aromatic flavor from the banana leaves. This method is a favorite among the local Dai (傣族) people.

3. Ant Egg Soup

Ant egg soup is a comforting dish made by boiling ant eggs with tomatoes and cilantro for about 10 minutes. This soup is not only a comforting meal for the locals but also a nutrient-dense option that has become a well-known delicacy in the region.

Culinary and Medicinal Uses of Sour Ants

Sour ants, beyond their culinary applications, are also used in various medicinal ways. The ants and their eggs are said to have numerous health benefits, including helping with circulation and reducing swelling. Locals also use the ants to make vinegar and other condiments. In some cases, dried sour ants are used in dishes such as sour noodle soup or mixed with chili and garlic for spicy, tangy dips.

The sour taste of the ants makes them a great candidate for pickling or for infusing into local alcoholic beverages, believed by some to help alleviate symptoms of rheumatism.

In conclusion, cold sour ant eggs are a uniquely flavorful and nutrient-rich food that holds significant cultural and culinary importance in Yunnan, particularly among the Lahu and Dai people. For those looking to explore bold, new flavors and experience the rich food traditions of southern China, trying cold sour ant eggs is an absolute must!

Chicken Tofu in Puer

Located in the Dongbaishahe area of Panlong District, Kunming City, Huazhicheng Flower City is a comprehensive resort themed around flowers and Yunnan culture. It features a variety of sights year-round, including colorful flower exhibitions in every season, Peacock Mountain, and the Crystal Cave, both composed of precious stones. This destination is perfect for photography enthusiasts. Additionally, visitors can explore the 4D Museum—a dome theater—and the Fragrance Museum, which recreates the charm of 19th century France. The shops and restaurants here are also centered around Yunnan culture.

Project Overview

The project is located at Jinwa Road, Panlong District, Kunming City, Yunnan Province. Positioned at the entrance of Changshui Airport, Kunming, it benefits from the dual support of subway and high-speed rail, providing fast and efficient access to the airport. The total area of Yunnan Yimei Industrial Group spans nearly 68,823.79 square meters, and it took three years to plan. In the context of Yunnan’s tourism industry experiencing a second boom, this project aims to seize the opportunities presented by Changshui International Airport. It integrates Yunnan’s national culture, flower culture, tourism industry, and modern commercial development to upgrade and enhance the tourism sector, creating a perfect combination of food, accommodation, travel, shopping, and entertainment.

Flower Theme Hotel Complex

Building upon existing elements such as scenic spots, hotels, shopping malls, and conference services, Huazhicheng Flower City further explores cultural connotations. It introduces main consumption formats such as cultural entertainment and experiential projects, constructing four major cultural themes: flower culture, gourmet culture, music culture, and literary creation culture. These themes represent Kunming’s local culture and aim to become a landmark project that embodies the life experience in Kunming.

Key Attractions

Location and Opening Hours

• Location: No. 8188, Jinwa Road, Panlong District, Kunming City, Yunnan Province
• Opening Hours: Year-round, from 09:00 to 19:30
• Ticket Price: Starting at 20 yuan per person

Notable Attractions

1. Rainbow Flower Realm (霓彩花境)
   This is a significant highlight of Huazhicheng Flower City. The flower realm covers nearly 6,000 square meters and is accompanied by 1,800 acres of flower beds. It is the world’s largest flower-themed greenhouse, often referred to as China’s Keukenhof Garden. Designed by Dutch royal horticulturalists, the garden involved multiple top-tier horticultural companies over three years, with a total investment of 200 million yuan. It features thousands of rare flower varieties from around the globe, with over 60% of the plant resources sourced locally from Yunnan. Each exhibition consumes nearly 8 million precious flowers, such as roses, orchids, and camellias, making it a true global flower germplasm resource.
2. Cultural Experience Museum (文化体验式博物馆)
   This museum covers approximately 3,800 square meters and serves as a cultural experience center for the 300-year spice trade between China and France. The design includes varied spatial levels to enhance visitors’ experiences during their movements through the space. Utilizing the latest imaging technology and interactive methods, it creates an immersive experience that engages the five senses, showcasing Yunnan’s precious tropical rainforest resources, the utopia of Shangri-La, the biodiversity of Gaoligong Mountain, and the pristine Meili Snow Mountain range. It also recreates 18th-century Sino-French trade scenes, featuring ports, cargo ships, docks, opera house streets, and the Palace of Versailles.
3. 4D Dome Theater (4D弧形穹幕影厅)
   The 4D Dome Theater spans 680 square meters and features a high-definition digital 3D movie playback system combined with multi-track digital surround sound. This innovative setup integrates auditory, visual, olfactory, tactile, and dynamic sensory experiences, utilizing technology to create a novel experience.

Transportation Information

For those driving, the route from the starting point is as follows:

• Beijing Road → Enter Fengyuan Road → Kunqu Expressway/City Center Direction → Enter Roundabout → Hangrui Expressway → Xiaozhuang Interchange → Enter the Second Ring Quick B Line → Shizha Interchange/Bailong Road Exit → Second Ring East Road → Kunming International Airport/East Third Ring Direction → Destination.

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