Random Facts About China

China’s flag was first flown in Tianamen Square on October 1, 1949, the day of the founding of the People’s Republic of China. The color “red” symbolizes the revolution. The 5 golden-yellow stars represent the Communist Party (largest star) and the people of China (smaller stars).

China was named by Europeans for the ancient Ch’in Dynasty. China has an area of 9,600,000 sq. km., which means that is has the same landmass as the continental United States. The Capital of China is Beijing.

China is bordered by Afghanistan, Bhutan, Burma, India, Kazakhstan, North Korea, Kyrgyzstan, Laos, Mongolia, nepal, Pakistan, Russia, Tajikistan, and Vietnam.

There are 22 provinces, 5 autonomous regions and 4 municipalities in China.

The Yangze River, also known as the Long River, is the longest river in China, and the 3rd longest river in the world.

The climate of China is extremely diverse. It ranges from a tropical climate in the south to sub arctic temperatures in the north.

The population of China is approximately 1.3 billion people (as of July 2005) and includes 56 ethnic groups.

The most popular religion is Buddhism.

Mandarin is the official national standard spoken language.

There are 4 major holidays (New Year (January 1st), Spring Festival (New Year by the lunar calendar), International Labor Day (in May) and National Day (in October). The major festivals include Spring Festival, Lantern Festival, Tomb-sweeping Day, Dragon Boat Festival and Mid-Autumn Festival.

There are eight major Chinese cuisines:
Shangong (Northern China - sweet and juicy)
Sichuan (Southwest China - spicy hot)
Guangdong (Guangzhou region - typically steamed and boiled, includes a lot of seafood and sweet tasting dishes)
Fujian (Southeast China on the coast - slow cooked colorless soups and fish)
Jiangsu (Northeastern China - famous for duck dishes)
Zhejiang (characterized by elaborate preparation and usually served in thick gravy)
Hunan (strong flavors and hotter than Sichuan foods)Anhui (just West of Shangai - usually braised and stewed)