From Peking to Mandalay: A Journey from North China to Burma through Tibetan Ssuch'uan and Yunnan

"From Peking to Mandalay" by Sir Reginald Fleming Johnston is a travel account written in the early 20th century. The narrative chronicles Johnston's adventurous journey through China to Burma, with a focus on the lesser-known regions of Tibetan Ssuch'uan and Yunnan. His exploration is driven by a desire to understand diverse tribes and landscapes, seeking to reveal the beauty and cultural richness of the areas he traverses. The opening of the book sets the stage for Johnston's expedition. He discusses his motivations, emphasizing that this journey is not bound by governmental or scientific interests, but rather a personal quest for knowledge and experience. Johnston describes the allure of remote places, noting the untouched beauty of China's wilderness, and reveals his delight in nature. He provides a glimpse of his itinerary, mentioning significant stops along the way and the challenges he anticipates, promising a rich depiction of both the landscape and the people he encounters on his way to Mandalay.