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Inside the Kingdom of the Little People, Kunming, Yunnan.

The Empire of Dwarfs, also known as the Kingdom of the Little People, was an unconventional and controversial theme park located near Kunming, in Yunnan Province, China. Established as a tourism venture, the park capitalized on its unique premise: employing people with dwarfism as performers and staff. It quickly garnered attention for its peculiar approach, sparking debates on ethical grounds and cultural perceptions of disability.

During our second visit, the overt references to Snow White—a narrative initially tied to the park’s branding—had vanished. Nevertheless, the central focus on dwarfs remained unchanged, with their performances being the primary draw for visitors.

The park featured an eclectic mix of attractions, including a deformed calf, a talented acrobat from Xinjiang, and, most notably, a community of performers with dwarfism. These performers engaged in choreographed routines, singing, and dancing twice daily for audiences consisting largely of families and school groups. The spectacle was designed to entertain but also invited scrutiny due to its portrayal of the performers.

For the individuals involved, many of whom came from rural or economically disadvantaged backgrounds across China, the park represented an unusual opportunity. While the concept of a theme park centered on dwarfs may seem exploitative at first glance, it provided an alternative to a life that might otherwise involve marginalization or begging in urban areas. Performers received housing and a degree of financial independence, albeit within a framework that commodified their physical traits.

The Kingdom of the Little People raised significant ethical questions about the intersection of entertainment, employment, and the dignity of individuals with disabilities. Critics accused the park of perpetuating stereotypes and exploiting its employees, while supporters argued that it offered a rare source of income and community for individuals who might otherwise face societal exclusion.

Over time, the park’s novelty waned, and discussions about its place in modern society highlighted broader issues of representation and human rights. Whether seen as a controversial attempt at inclusion or an insensitive commercialization of disability, the Empire of Dwarfs remains a striking example of the complexities inherent in cultural tourism and ethical entertainment.

If you want to know more, read here or here.

UPDATE: A friend told us the Empire has been shut down recently (2015).

The kingdom of the Chinese dwarfs

Pictures & video by Matteo Damiani

The article was originally published on Aug 8, 2011, Latest update Jul 18, 2019

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