People and Population in Zhaotong

Zhaotong is a prefecture-level city located in the northeast corner of Yunnan province, China, bordering the provinces of Guizhou to the south and southeast and Sichuan to the northeast, north, and west.

Ethnic Diversity:

  • Major Ethnic Groups:
    • Miao: The largest minority group in Zhaotong.
    • Yi: Considered indigenous with a long history in the region.
    • Hui: Accounts for one-fourth of the Hui population in Yunnan Province.
    • Han: The majority ethnic group.
  • Other Ethnic Groups: Zhaotong is home to a total of 31 ethnic groups among China’s 56 recognized ethnicities, with significant populations of Yi, Hui, and Miao, each exceeding 100,000 people.

Population Statistics (2022):

  • Permanent Population: 4.949 million.
  • Urbanization Rate: 40.93%.
  • Birth Rate: 10.18 per thousand.
  • Death Rate: 10.06 per thousand.
  • Natural Population Growth Rate: 0.12 per thousand.
  • Registered Population: 6.331536 million.
  • Households: 1.8901 million.
  • Urbanization Rate (Registered): 29.36%.
  • Registered Birth Rate: 11.24 per thousand.
  • Registered Death Rate: 5.36 per thousand.
  • Registered Natural Growth Rate: 5.88 per thousand.

Population Statistics (2023):

  • Permanent Population: 4.854 million.
  • Urbanization Rate: 41.85%.

Cultural and Social Aspects:

  • Ethnic Distribution: Reflects the typical characteristics of ethnic distribution in Southwest China, combining mountainous areas, revolutionary old areas, and diverse ethnic areas.
  • Ethnic Contributions: The various ethnic groups in Zhaotong contribute significantly to the region’s cultural diversity, economic activities, and social harmony.
  • Historical Significance: The Yi and other ethnic groups have a long-standing history in Zhaotong, enriching the local culture with their traditions, festivals, and customs.

Summary:

Zhaotong is a culturally rich and ethnically diverse region in Yunnan Province, home to significant populations of Miao, Yi, and Hui people among others. The population dynamics show a substantial urbanization trend, with a significant portion of the population residing in urban areas. The city’s demographic and cultural landscape highlights its unique position in Southwest China, where ethnic diversity and historical heritage play vital roles in its development and identity.