Kunming Old Streets (Old Kunming Areas)

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If Chengdu has Kuanzhai Alleys (宽窄巷子) and Shanghai has Xintiandi (新天地), Kunming has its own Kunming Old Streets (昆明老街). This area is a historical district in the heart of the city, the last remaining traditional district of Kunming.

The Kunming Old Streets (昆明老街) project is located in the heart of Kunming’s main urban area. Its protection zone, marked by a purple line, covers approximately 200 acres, extending from Zhengyi Road (正义路) in the east to Wuyi Road (五一路) in the west, starting at Jingxing Street (景星街) to the south, and reaching Renmin Zhong Road (人民中路) to the north. This district not only houses eight cultural heritage protection units but also contains twenty listed ancient protected buildings. It is the only district in Kunming to have fully preserved its historical appearance, making it an invaluable part of the city. As such, the project has successfully become a key cultural and tourism project in Yunnan Province, as well as a provincial-level historical and cultural district.

History of Kunming Old Streets

The buildings in Kunming Old Streets date back nearly 900 years. These structures are rich with history, carrying the stories of the city’s past while also reflecting the joys and experiences of contemporary life.

Among these streets, Guanghua Street (光华街) is the only one left in Kunming city that maintains the city’s ancient architectural style. The street is 435 meters long, stretching from Zhengyi Road (正义路) in the east to Wuyi Road (五一路) in the west. Visitors here can experience authentic small pot rice noodles (小锅米线), browse fascinating Yunnan antiques, and discover century-old medicine shops. Guanghua Street embraces both the ancient and modern aspects of Kunming with its timeworn yet welcoming atmosphere.

Yongdao Street (甬道街) is where Kunming’s first flower and bird market was established in 1983. Over time, the merchants who sold flowers, birds, fish, and insects in metal sheds on Yongdao Street expanded their businesses. This led to the creation of Jingxing Jewelry Flower and Bird Market. This type of local market extended its influence to other streets such as Guanghua Street and Wenming Street (文明街). Today, Yongdao Street has undergone renovations, with many merchants returning with upgraded products.

Jingxing Street (景星街) is a bustling hub where locals and tourists alike can find unique and unusual items. This street carries fond childhood memories for many Kunming residents and offers endless surprises for visitors.

Qianwang Street (钱王街) is a place where tradition and modernity collide. It features Starbucks in old buildings, British-style electronic music bars, and many artisan shops. The street is popular for street photography, with fashionable people posing for pictures throughout the day.

Major Streets in Kunming Old Streets

Kunming Old Streets is located in the city center and consists of several main streets, including Wenming Street (文明街), Jingxing Street (景星街), and Wenmiao Zhijie (文庙直街). This area has more than 900 years of history and has received various honors, such as a nomination for the 11th ITIA Awards for Best Historical Cultural Tourism Project.

Relevant History

Kunming Old Streets is the last preserved district of its kind in the city, offering a unique glimpse into Kunming’s cultural and historical heritage. The district features traditional residential and commercial buildings from the Qing Dynasty (清朝) and the Republic of China (民国), making it a valuable part of both Kunming’s history and culture.

The district was officially named “Kunming Old Streets” in 2005. This event marked an important milestone in the city’s development and established it as one of Kunming’s most iconic landmarks, symbolizing the city’s ancient culture.

Key Historical Streets

Guanghua Street (光华街) is one of the most important streets in this area, representing Kunming’s traditional street layout. Here, visitors can explore local cuisine, antiques, and century-old shops.

Qianwang Street (钱王街) carries a deep historical legacy as the site of the Qianwang Wangchih Piaohao (钱王王炽票号), a financial institution during the Republic of China. This street preserves traditional residential courtyards from the Republic of China period.

Yongdao Street (甬道街) is home to Kunming’s first flower and bird market, which traces its origins back to 1983. Over time, it has grown into a large marketplace and cultural hub.

Wenmiao Zhijie (文庙直街), named after the Confucian Temple (文庙), is another culturally significant street that links the past with the present.

Project Overview

The Kunming Old Streets (昆明老街) project is located in a bustling area of the city center. Its protection zone spans from Zhengyi Road (正义路) in the east to Wuyi Road (五一路) in the west, and from Jingxing Street (景星街) in the south to Renmin Zhong Road (人民中路) in the north, covering an area of about 200 acres. This district houses eight precious cultural heritage sites and 20 protected ancient buildings, making it one of the most important cultural districts in Kunming. As a result, the project has received multiple recognitions from provincial and municipal departments and has earned its place among Yunnan’s key cultural projects, tourism projects, and provincial-level historical and cultural districts.

Historical Architecture and Cultural Value

What sets this district apart is its well-preserved historical architecture, and its importance as the only intact historical district in Kunming. Numerous government projects and private investments have supported its development and preservation.

Being the last large old street area in central Kunming, protecting and restoring Kunming Old Streets has been a key project for the city. The project aims to preserve the historical architectural features of the district while improving the living environment of the city.

In 2006, the Wenming Street (文明街) historical and cultural protection zone was officially designated, creating a legal foundation for the protection of the area. The plan involves careful restoration of old buildings and the demolition of newer constructions that do not hold cultural value. Notable buildings such as Nie Er’s Former Residence (聂耳故居) and the Ma Family Courtyard (马家大院) will be preserved and repaired to maintain their historical authenticity.

The goal of the protection project is to create a sustainable cultural tourism district, with Kunming Old Streets becoming a National 4A-level Scenic Area. The area will feature tourism routes, and an investment of 3 billion yuan is planned to develop the area and help preserve the cultural heritage of old Kunming.

Historical and Cultural Significance

Kunming Old Streets represents one of the city’s most significant historical districts. This area preserves several ancient buildings, cultural relics, and heritage sites, making it a living testament to Kunming’s rich history and culture.

Cultural Heritage and Protection

The district includes 8 cultural heritage protection units and 20 listed ancient buildings. These structures showcase a range of architectural styles from the Qing Dynasty (清朝), Republic of China (民国), and other historical periods, preserving traditional local architecture and craftsmanship.

It is the only remaining district in Kunming that fully retains its historical character, making it a unique gem in the city’s urban landscape.

Development and Renovation

Early Development

The development of Kunming Old Streets began in the early 2000s when the Kunming Municipal Government identified the area as a key cultural and tourist district. In 2003, the project was entrusted to Kunming Zhijiang Real Estate Co., Ltd. (昆明市之江置业有限公司), which undertook the task of redeveloping and preserving the area.

Phased Development

The renovation of Kunming Old Streets is planned in three phases:

Phase 1 (2009): The Zhengyi Fang Shopping Center (正义坊购物中心) opened at the end of 2009, marking the first step in revitalizing the district. This shopping center introduced modern retail into the area while respecting the historical context.

Phase 2: This phase focused on the protection of the district’s architectural features, including famous streets such as Qianwang Street, Wenming Street, and Yongdao Street. Renovations in these areas introduced a blend of old and new, offering visitors both historical and modern shopping experiences. By May 2018, Qianwang Street, Wenming Street, and the Jingxing Jewelry Market (景星珠宝市场) officially opened to the public.

Phase 3: The third phase of the project is planned but has not yet started. When completed, it is expected to enrich the cultural and tourism offerings of Kunming Old Streets.

Project Investment

The total projected investment for the Kunming Old Streets project is 5 billion yuan. Over half of this amount has already been invested, with significant progress made in the preservation and revitalization of the district.

Attractions and Key Features

Street Appearance and Architecture

The Kunming Old Streets retain traditional architectural features such as single-eaved, columned buildings, red walls, and wooden window frames, which highlight Kunming’s traditional craftsmanship.

Despite its historical nature, the streets have been carefully renovated to blend ancient charm with modern conveniences. Visitors can explore a mix of traditional shops, restaurants, and modern retail spaces.

Cultural Experiences

The district offers a chance to experience Kunming’s historical culture through various sites and landmarks, including the Confucian Temple (文庙) and the many preserved historical buildings along Qianwang Street (钱王街).

Walking through Kunming Old Streets is like taking a journey back in time, offering visitors a rich, immersive experience that connects them with the city’s past while still offering modern amenities.

Food and Shopping Hub

Zhengyi Fang Shopping Center (正义坊购物中心) is a major commercial center in Kunming Old Streets, offering a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. It features a unique blend of traditional shopping streets with modern facilities.

Kunming Old Streets is known for its vibrant food scene. Kunming Old Streets – Food Street (昆明老街·美食天街) hosts nearly 100 dining establishments, ranging from local specialties to international cuisines. It is one of Kunming’s largest food gathering spots and is recognized as part of the city’s culinary heritage.

The district is also famous for its antique markets and traditional crafts, where visitors can purchase unique items such as antiques, textiles, and other locally crafted goods.

Historic Streets and Attractions

Qianwang Street (钱王街): Known for its well-preserved Republic of China architecture, this street offers visitors a glimpse into Kunming’s past, including famous sites such as Tongqingfeng (同庆丰) and the Ma Family Courtyard (马家大院).

Yongdao Street (甬道街): Kunming’s original flower and bird market, which has expanded over time into a large and vibrant cultural area.

Wenmiao Zhijie (文庙直街): A street lined with ancient buildings that lead to the Confucian Temple (文庙), providing an immersive historical experience.

Transportation

Accessibility

Kunming Old Streets is centrally located and easily accessible from major parts of the city. Visitors can reach the district by public transportation, taxis, or walking from nearby attractions.

Zhengyi Fang Shopping Center (正义坊购物中心) and the hotels along Qianwang Street (钱王街) are located within walking distance from the main streets of Kunming, making it convenient for tourists to explore.

Public Transport

Bus Routes: Several buses pass through Kunming Old Streets. Popular routes include No. 10, 82, 84, 116, and K13, which stop at Zhengyi Fang (正义坊) near Nanping Street (南屏街) and Wenmiao (文庙).

Taxis and ride-sharing services are also readily available throughout the city.

Future Developments

The project continues to evolve as Kunming Old Streets aims to become a prominent 4A-level scenic area in China. The third phase of the development will further enhance the tourism and cultural experience, introducing new attractions, shopping areas, and cultural experiences. As the project progresses, it is expected to strengthen Kunming’s role as a cultural tourism hub in Yunnan Province.

Honors and Recognition

January 2022: Kunming Old Streets was nominated for the 11th ITIA Award for Best Historical Cultural Tourism Project.

February 2022: It was proposed for inclusion in the “First Batch of Provincial Nighttime Cultural and Tourism Consumption Clusters” in Yunnan.

August 2022: It was added to the second batch of National Nighttime Cultural and Tourism Consumption Clusters.