By outdoor-nature-child.com From October 15 to 21, the Hawaii Chinese Chamber of Commerce is leading a delegation of over 40 members, including the Hawaii Narcissus Queen, on a visit to Yunnan Province. This visit aims to strengthen cultural and economic cooperation between China and the United States and enhance people-to-people connections.
Founded in 1911, the Hawaii Chinese Chamber of Commerce is one of the oldest business associations in the United States. Since 1949, the Chamber has hosted an annual “Chinese Cultural Festival” themed around the Narcissus flower, where they select a “Narcissus Queen and Princess.” The chosen representatives and their families are then given the opportunity to visit China, deepening their understanding of their ancestral homeland and promoting Chinese culture. This delegation marks the third visit to Yunnan by the Narcissus Queen’s representatives, fostering mutual understanding between the peoples of China and the U.S.
During this trip, the delegation will focus on exploring cities like Kunming, Dali, and Lijiang, as well as visiting natural wonders like the Erhai Lake, experiencing traditional Bai tie-dye techniques, and learning about the ancient Dongba culture. They aim to immerse themselves in the beautiful landscapes and rich cultural diversity of Yunnan.
He Changsong, the head of the Overseas Chinese Affairs Office of Yunnan Province, shared that Yunnan is China’s fifth-largest province for overseas Chinese, with more than 2 million expatriates and their descendants. He emphasized that Yunnan is becoming a key player in China’s new phase of opening up, transforming from a backwater to a frontier, and positioning itself as a hub connecting South and Southeast Asia. He expressed hope for ongoing exchanges between the Hawaii Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Yunnan, encouraging members to experience the unique lifestyle that Yunnan has to offer.
Li Shaqun, president of the Hawaii Chinese Chamber of Commerce, reflected on her experience in Yunnan: “Both Yunnan and Hawaii are often referred to as ‘paradises,’ blessed with pleasant climates and breathtaking scenery.” She noted the lush greenery and favorable climate of Yunnan, likening it to a natural oxygen bar, and was particularly impressed by the abundance of local products like Pu-erh tea and wild mushrooms.
Twenty-six-year-old Bai ethnic girl Ye Shuyao, the 74th Narcissus Queen of Hawaii, expressed her excitement about returning to her hometown of Kunming after five years. “Everything here feels both familiar and dear to me. I’m thrilled to show everyone around my hometown.”
Ye Shuyao pointed out the rich history of the Chinese community in Hawaii, which has gradually expanded while maintaining and spreading Chinese culture abroad. During festivals, community members share the origins of Chinese celebrations with their American friends, demonstrating traditional customs through dragon dancing, lion dancing, Chinese martial arts, and calligraphy to attract more people to learn about China. “I hope that through our time in Yunnan, many people will gain a deeper understanding of China’s diverse and vibrant culture,” she added.