Kunming

The completion of the Kunming-Haiphong railway in 1910 was a pivotal moment for Kunming, transforming it into a significant trade and transportation hub in southern China. The railway, which connected Kunming to the port of Haiphong in Vietnam, facilitated the flow of goods and contributed to the city's economic growth and modernization. This development marked the first time Kunming was linked to the international market.

The outbreak of the Second Sino-Japanese War in 1937 saw a massive influx of refugees into Kunming, rapidly transforming its demographic and cultural landscape. By 1938, Kunming had taken in thousands of displaced Chinese fleeing the advancing Japanese forces, leading to a population spike and significant urban development projects to accommodate the swelling numbers. This period was critical in shaping the city's modern character and infrastructure.

In December 1940, Kunming became the headquarters for the American Volunteer Group, also known as the Flying Tigers. This group, comprised of American pilots recruited to fight the Japanese prior to the U.S. entry into World War II, was crucial in defending China. Utilizing Kungming's strategic location, the Flying Tigers launched vital air campaigns, significantly impacting the war effort and cementing Kunming's role as a key military base during the conflict.

The opening of Kunming Wujiaba Airport in 1970 marked a significant development in Yunnan's air travel capabilities. Serving as an important hub for both domestic and international flights, Wujiaba Airport facilitated increased connectivity between Kunming and other major cities, bolstering economic growth and tourism. It operated until 2012, serving as a crucial transportation link in the region for over four decades.

The World Horticultural Expo held in Kunming in 1999 was a landmark event showcasing global horticultural achievements and environmental awareness. Drawing millions of visitors from around the world, the expo featured exhibitions from over 95 countries and numerous international organizations. It emphasized ecological preservation and sustainable development, significantly enhancing Kunming's reputation as a 'Spring City' and boosting tourism and international trade relations.

The Kunming Bridge, completed at the end of 2002, is the longest bridge in Yunnan province, significantly improving transportation and infrastructure. Spanning over a critical expanse, this bridge facilitates the flow of goods and people across Kunming and beyond, supporting the region's economic development. The bridge signifies a major achievement in engineering and urban planning for the province.

During the 2008 Beijing Olympics, Kunming had the honor of hosting some of the preliminary games of the soccer tournament. This event underscored Kunming's growing prominence as a host city capable of supporting large international events. The Olympic games also led to infrastructure improvements within the city, aligning with long-term goals of modernizing urban facilities and tourist attractions.

In December 2009, Kunming became connected to China's burgeoning high-speed rail network, marking a milestone in its transportation history. The introduction of high-speed rail transformed accessibility to and from Kunming, slashing travel times to major cities like Beijing and Shanghai. This significantly fostered economic integration and facilitated the movement of people and goods across the country and beyond.

The new Kunming Changshui International Airport officially opened on July 1, 2010, replacing the older Wujiaba Airport. This state-of-the-art airport significantly increased passenger capacity and international connectivity, establishing Kunming as a major gateway to Southeast Asia. The airport's modern facilities support economic expansion through enhanced trade and tourism, reflecting Kunming's strategic importance in the region.

A violent attack occurred at the Kunming Railway Station on March 1, 2014, when a group of assailants with knives killed 31 people and injured more than 140 others. This tragic event, carried out by terrorists, shocked the nation and drew widespread international condemnation. Authorities responded by increasing security measures across the country and launching a crackdown on similar activities to prevent future incidents.