Dan Shechtman, Nobel Chemistry laureate and newly elected foreign academician of the Chinese Academy of Sciences. 

“There are so many trees here—each one lush, full, and so carefully tended.”

Twelve years after his first visit to Kunming, Nobel Chemistry laureate and newly elected foreign academician of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dan Shechtman, once again walked the streets of the “City of Eternal Spring.” What he saw moved him to this spontaneous remark.

This was no polite pleasantry. It was the precise observation of a scientist who has seen cities around the world and weighs his words carefully. To him, the thriving trees were not merely scenic—it was the clearest expression of a city’s philosophy of development.

With rolling peaks, lush forests, and birdsong echoing through the valleys, Xishan Scenic Area is a verdant forest park of remarkable natural beauty.

A City’s Promise to Every Tree, and to Its Future

“I saw so many trees. People in Kunming truly cherish and care for every single one. They plant them with devotion and maintain them with great care. I’ve never seen such a consistent and heartfelt effort anywhere else in the world,” Shechtman said.

What impressed him even more was the logic underpinning this widespread practice: “If a city can take each tree so seriously, that in itself is an impressive commitment. It shows a deep sense of responsibility toward urban development and its future.”

Picturesque scenery unfolds along the southern shore of Dianchi Lake. Photo by Li Jiming

His words captured the essence of Kunming’s environmental philosophy—an almost stubborn precision and patience. The city’s greenery is not the product of campaigns or slogans; it reflects a belief that each tree is a living citizen deserving a full life cycle of care. From willows by Cuihu to redwoods along the Panlong River, from small pocket parks to the woods atop Xishan, this quiet, consistent devotion has created a living, breathing green foundation for the city.

Aerial view of Changchong Mountain. Photo from the Kunming Learning Platform of "Xuexi Qiangguo".

Caring for a tree requires not only funding and expertise but also foresight and respect for nature. This "commitment" is precisely the underlying code of Kunming’s response to the question of how to achieve true development.

Finding a Balance Between Growth and Preservation

When Shechtman climbed Xishan Mountain again twelve years later, he found a Kunming that had learned to balance progress with preservation.

“From Xishan Mountain, you can survey the entire city. The fusion of new and historic structures is interwoven with ecological landscapes. While roads are more extensive and buildings grander, this development harmonizes with the beautiful natural scenery.”

What has changed is the city’s skyline, its expanded infrastructure, its growing scale—inevitable signs of development and the pulse of modernization.

What remains unchanged are the shimmering waters of Dianchi Lake, the verdant slope of Xishan Mountain, and the harmony between city and nature. These form Kunming’s roots—the irreplaceable DNA of Kunming.

Rare and commendable is this harmonious coexistence. It signifies development that is not about demolition and rebuilding or the erosion of nature, but about allowing the new and the historic to dialogue and meld within an ecological framework. This capacity for integration tests the wisdom and resolve of urban planners.

In Wuhua District, Kunming, vertical flower beds along urban roadsides have beautified the cityscape, improved the environment, and enriched citizens’ aesthetic experience—adding a refined touch to the city’s character.

Thoughtful Design Enhances a Natural Wonder

At the World Natural Heritage Site of the Stone Forest, Shechtman’s attention extended beyond the striking shapes of karst pillars.

The Stone Forest of Kunming—a place named for its stones and famed because of them.

“The Stone Forest is magnificent.Its trail system is exceptionally well-developed and perfect for walking tours. During my visit, I observed horticulturists meticulously tending to the landscape. This vividly demonstrates the planners' skill in merging natural marvels with the visitor experience.”

In autumn, the Stone Forest is at its most serene and graceful—clear skies, crisp air, and boundless beauty.

Nature granted the Stone Forest its dramatic forms; Kunming’s planners, through careful trail design and ongoing maintenance, made that gift accessible, experiential, and enduring. The lesson is clear: the best preservation is not isolation, but engagement—a way to connect people deeply to nature through thoughtful, science‑based design. That very capacity for integration is what turns natural assets into lasting public good.

Livability is the Most Persuasive Form of Progress

“The air here is fresh; the climate, pleasantly mild.” Shechtman repeatedly voiced his admiration for Kunming’s environment. His overall impression: “I see diversity and balance in the city’s development—modern construction alongside abundant natural resources, verdant landscapes, and beautiful lakes and mountains. It is a truly livable city.”

Livability is one of the highest goals a city can pursue—a synthesis of clean air, mild weather, convenient facilities, and beautiful scenery. The diversity and balance Shechtman sensed reflect Kunming’s ongoing quest to find its golden ratio between steel and green, between rapid growth and tranquil living.

With an abundance of fresh ingredients, a rich and mellow broth, and meticulous presentation, the iconic “Crossing-the-Bridge Rice Noodles” exemplify the essence of Yunnan cuisine. In the rising steam lies not only the fragrant freshness of local ingredients, but also the heritage and innovation of Yunnan’s culinary culture. Photo by Su Wenqian

This livable experience ultimately translated into the most genuine endorsement:“I will recommend this place to friends, family, and travelers.” He not only passionately sampled local delicacies like crossing-the-bridge rice noodles and explored city landmarks with the spirit of a tourist, but also explicitly stated, "If I have the opportunity, I would eagerly return to Kunming. I would unhesitatingly recommend it to my friends and to travelers worldwide, as it is indeed an ideal travel destination."

From his micro‑observation of “every tree being carefully tended” to his macro‑appreciation of the city’s “diversity and balance,” Shechtman’s visit offers a scientist’s clear‑eyed, outsider’s view of Kunming.

His praise is more than recognition of Kunming’s ecological achievements—it affirms a deeper belief: when a city treats every patch of green as a living being, what it earns is not only lush scenery but a sustainable future and genuine applause from the world.

Perhaps this is Kunming’s most vivid answer to the world—a living testament to the harmonious coexistence of humanity and nature.