On May 1, 1999, 68 countries took part in the World Horticultural Exposition in Kunming (Expo'99).

The World Horti-Expo Garden runs 2.5 km from east to west, and 1.1 km from north to south, covering an area of 218 ha. Today, the national flags of these 68 countries still flutter at the entrance, the main avenue resplendent with sunshine and flowers, the big flower ship and the towering sign "Blossoming in the New Century," all remain as dazzling as ever.

"Man and Nature - Marching into the 21 st Century" was the theme of Expo'99, and also a declaration for mankind. Man and nature must live in peace and harmony - losing this balance would be disastrous for both man and Earth. At the entrance of the Man-and-Nature Hall are some words about the earth by Chief Seattle of the Suquamish and other American Indian tribes: "You must remember that it is sacred, you must teach your children that it is sacred This we know: the earth does not belong to man; man belongs to the earth. This we all know. All things are connected, like the blood which unites one family. All things are connected."

The World Horti-Expo Garden comprises the China Hall, International Hall, Man-and-Nature Hall, Science and Technology Hall, Grand Greenhouse, Tea Garden, Bonsai Garden, Medicinal Herb Garden, Fruit and Vegetable Garden, Bamboo Garden, Tree Garden, International Exposition Area... The buildings, which reflect the unique styles of each country or province, the rare plants and flowers from all over the world, are all well protected and remain as beautiful as before - perhaps even more vigorous. The garden will take you three days to fully savor.

The World Horticultural Exposition brought forward Kunming's infrastructure building and city development by 10 years. The city also opened four green squares - Jinbi, Wuhuashan, Wuhua and Shengli.