Three Years in Western China A Narrative of Three Journeys in Ssu-ch'uan, Kuei-chow, and Yün-nan

"Three Years in Western China" by Alexander Hosie is a captivating true account of the author's adventures through the rugged landscapes and vibrant cultures of Ssu-ch'uan, Kuei-chow, and Yün-nan in Western China back in the 1800s. The story kicks off with a challenging river journey up the Yang-tsze to reach Ch'ung-k'ing, the heart of Western China's trade. Hosie shares his experiences meeting the locals, dealing with tricky river conditions, and working with his Chinese crew. A major part of the story is about how important trade routes were and how relationships with other countries affected the area's economy. The narrative paints a picture of both the beautiful scenery and the unique customs of the people he encountered during his three-year exploration.