Yunnan Eighteen Oddities

Yunnan province in southwest China is known for its unique cultural and environmental characteristics, often referred to as the Eighteen Oddities of Yunnan (Yúnnán Shíbā Guài; 云南十八怪). These oddities highlight the distinctive traits and customs of the region, making it a fascinating destination for both domestic and international tourists. Here is a detailed list of these oddities:

1. Eggs are tied up and sold in rope-like clusters:
   • Eggs are often sold in bunches, tied together with straw or rope, which is a unique and practical way to carry and sell them.
2. Bamboo hats are used as wok lids:
   • Large bamboo hats, commonly worn by locals, are also repurposed as covers for woks during cooking.
3. Three mosquitoes make up a dish:
   • This saying refers to the large size of mosquitoes in Yunnan, humorously suggesting that just three mosquitoes are big enough to make a meal.
4. Bamboo is used to make water pipes for smoking:
   • Bamboo, abundant in the region, is crafted into water pipes for smoking, showcasing the resourcefulness of the local people.
5. Erkuai (耳块):
   • A local culinary specialty made of rice, erkuai translates to “ear piece” and is a popular and versatile dish in Yunnan cuisine.
6. The same dress is worn for all four seasons:
   • Due to the diverse climate in Yunnan, influenced by varying altitudes, it’s common to see people wearing a mix of seasonal clothing throughout the year.
7. Young girls are called “Old Lady”:
   • In Yunnan, young girls are affectionately called “old lady,” reflecting the unique linguistic and cultural expressions of the region.
8. Automobiles move faster than trains:
   • The saying points out that cars often travel faster than trains in Yunnan, due to the mountainous terrain and the layout of the transportation network.
9. Toes are exposed all year round:
   • Many locals wear open-toed footwear regardless of the season, highlighting the region’s generally mild climate.
10. Rain here but sunshine there:
    • The weather in Yunnan can vary dramatically within short distances, with rain in one area and sunshine just a few kilometers away.
11. Girls wear flowers in all four seasons:
    • It is a tradition for women in Yunnan to adorn themselves with fresh flowers throughout the year, adding to the region’s colorful and vibrant culture.
12. Girls carry tobacco bags:
    • Women in Yunnan often carry small bags of tobacco, a practice rooted in the local customs and social habits.
13. Green vegetables are called “bitter vegetables”:
    • Many leafy greens in Yunnan are referred to as “bitter vegetables” due to their distinctive taste, which is appreciated in the local cuisine.
14. Grannies climb mountains faster than monkeys:
    • Elderly women in Yunnan are known for their agility and endurance, often seen climbing mountains with remarkable speed and ease.
15. Trains go abroad but not inland:
    • The railways in Yunnan are designed to facilitate international travel to neighboring countries rather than extensive domestic routes.
16. Monks can have love affairs:
    • This reflects the more relaxed and diverse religious practices in Yunnan, where some monks may not adhere strictly to celibacy.
17. Children are raised by men:
    • Yunnan women are renowned for their hard work, often leading to men taking on significant roles in child-rearing and household management.
18. Automobiles move in the clouds:
    • Many roads in Yunnan are situated at high altitudes, giving the impression that vehicles are driving through the clouds.

Additional Oddities

These items may also appear in different versions of the list:

• Stone grows in the clouds:
  • Refers to the Stone Forest (Shilin), where limestone formations resemble stalagmites growing out of the ground.
• Locusts or grasshoppers are eaten as a delicacy:
  • Insects like locusts and grasshoppers are considered tasty snacks in Yunnan cuisine.
• Fresh flowers are served as a vegetable:
  • Certain flowers are incorporated into the local diet, often used in salads or cooked dishes.
• Water and fire are worshipped as gods:
  • Elements like water and fire hold significant spiritual importance in local traditions and rituals.
• People sing rather than speak:
  • Yunnan’s ethnic diversity includes communities where singing is a common form of communication.
• Tea leaves are sold in piles:
  • Tea is a major product in Yunnan, often sold in bulk at markets.
• Non-slanting walls are built with cobblestones:
  • Unique architectural styles in Yunnan include walls constructed with cobblestones, ensuring stability and aesthetic appeal.
• Keys are hung on waist belts:
  • Locals often carry keys attached to their waist belts for convenience.
• Small, lean horses are hard-working:
  • The horses in Yunnan are known for their endurance and strength, despite their smaller size.
• Fresh fruits and vegetables are available in all four seasons:
  • The favorable climate in Yunnan allows for the year-round availability of fresh produce.

These oddities collectively showcase the rich and diverse cultural heritage of Yunnan, making it a truly unique and captivating region in China.

Chinese Version: