Guizhou

Atlas Van der Hagen-KW1049B13 050-QVEICHEV, IMPERII SINARVM PROVINCIA DECIMAQUATRA

海龙屯 新王宫遗址

Mount Fanjing, 31 March 2020ii

灰背伯劳贵州威宁20080615草海 46

Guizhou is a province located in the southwestern part of China, known for its mountainous landscape, rich cultural heritage, and ethnic diversity. It is bordered by Sichuan to the northwest, Chongqing to the north, Hunan to the east, Guangxi to the south, and Yunnan to the west. The capital of Guizhou is Guiyang, which serves as the political, economic, and cultural center of the province.

Geography

Guizhou covers an area of approximately 176,000 square kilometers, making it a relatively small province by Chinese standards. The region is characterized by its hilly and mountainous terrain, with the Wu River and its tributaries forming the major river system in the province. Guizhou's climate is mild and moist, classified as a subtropical highland climate, which contributes to its rich biodiversity and lush vegetation.

History

The history of Guizhou dates back thousands of years, with evidence of human settlement from as early as the Paleolithic Age. The province played a significant role during various dynastic periods in China, serving as a strategic military and trade route. In more recent history, Guizhou was an important site during the Long March of the Chinese Communist Party in the 1930s.

Economy

Guizhou's economy has traditionally been based on agriculture, with maize, rice, and tobacco among the primary crops. In recent years, the province has seen significant development in the tourism and technology sectors, particularly with the construction of the Guizhou Radio Telescope, the world's largest single-dish radio telescope. The province is also rich in natural resources, including coal, bauxite, and timber.

Culture

Guizhou is home to a diverse array of ethnic groups, including the Miao, Dong, and Buyi, each with their own unique traditions, languages, and festivals. The province is renowned for its colorful ethnic minority cultures, traditional music and dance, and handicrafts such as batik and silver jewelry. The Huangguoshu Waterfall, one of China's largest waterfalls, and the ancient town of Zhenyuan are among the many cultural and natural attractions in Guizhou.

Demographics

As of the latest census, Guizhou has a population of over 35 million people, with a significant proportion belonging to various ethnic minority groups. The province's demographic composition reflects its rich cultural diversity, with many communities maintaining their traditional ways of life.

Education

Guizhou has made significant strides in improving its educational infrastructure, with numerous universities and colleges located throughout the province. Guizhou University and Guizhou Normal University are among the leading institutions of higher education in Guiyang.

Transportation

The transportation network in Guizhou has developed rapidly in recent years, with extensive road, rail, and air connections facilitating travel to and from the province. The Guiyang Longdongbao International Airport provides flights to major cities in China and some international destinations.