The area generally called Yemen (Yaman) is situated in the southwestern part of the Arabian Peninsula. There now exist two countries: People's Republic of Southern Yemen and Yemen Arab Republic. The former became independent of the yoke of British colonial rule in 1967.
The latter acquired its independence rebelling against Imam's despotic rule in 1962. These newly born republics have a lot of old and unique features, having been unknown for quite a long time to the outside world since the decline of ancient kingdoms. We would like to introduce both the new and age-old faces of Yemen according to what we have seen and heard during our travels in 1970.
Firstly, we give a brief description of cities in Yemen in accordance with our itinerary. They are, in order, Aden, Lahej, Mukalla, Saiun, Tarim, and Shibam, in southern Yemen, and Taizz, Ibb and San'a in northern Yemen.
Secondly, we introduce a kind of grass named qat, which has some narcotic effects when chewed habitually. Qat has been chewed by Yemenies since 6th century and it is so closely related with the Yemeni's life that the description of qat may help to give more concrete information about their life.
Thirdly, we have come to the conclusion after travelling over this land that now in Yemen the time for expeditions has gone to be replaced by the time for academic surveys. Ruines of ancient cities along the spice-road are still buried under the sands and offer a great challenge to historians and archaeologists.
Fourthly, we take up the problem of education. Educational level in Yemen is so low thet they don't have enough school-houses, desks and chairs for the pupils of elementary schools, even to say nothing about the lack of qualified teachers in the country. Any educational aid will be very much appreciated by the authorities concerned.
Finally, we make mention of several fascinating places which we could not visit, because of the lack of time and transport facilities. They are Socotra Island and Mahara district in the remotest province in southern Yemen. As for northern Yemen, we could not visit Hujja and Sa'da liwa' (prefecture). Then we point out the stone-castles of the zaidi nobles on the inaccessible peaks, which had stirred our curiosity.

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