Representation of Linguistic Groups Through Restaurant Signage in Kunming

Abstract

This paper looks at how the linguistic landscape of restaurant signage in Kunming reflects the presence and traits of the language groups residing or interacting with various urban areas. A total of 2,104 signs were collected from nine streets known for their cultural, commercial, and demographic diversity. Categorized as monolingual, bilingual, or multilingual, these signs were examined for language combinations and distribution trends. The results indicated that although Simplified Chinese predominates the signage, suggesting the prevalence of Mandarin-speaking locals, the inclusion of English, Traditional Chinese, Thai, Japanese, Korean, and minority languages suggests the presence of tourists, regional visitors, ethnic minorities, and international communities. Language selections differ by neighborhood; locations like Wenhua Lane and Nanqiang Street show more linguistic variety in line with their more international or cosmopolitan nature. The linguistic landscape therefore operates as a visual mirror of those who inhabit and engage in these areas. Offering insight into the multilingual fabric and sociological complexity of Kunming, it shows how public signage reacts to, accommodates, and reflects many socioeconomic groups in an urban setting.