China
China, officially known as the People’s Republic of China, is a vast and diverse country in East Asia. With a history spanning thousands of years, it is one of the world’s oldest civilizations and a global powerhouse in culture, economy, and innovation.
China’s landscapes range from towering mountains like the Himalayas to vast plains, deserts, and stunning rivers like the Yangtze. Its cultural heritage includes iconic landmarks such as the Great Wall, Forbidden City, and Terracotta Army, making it a fascinating destination for travelers.
Key Facts:
Travel Info
Climate: Varies widely; northern regions experience cold winters, while southern areas are subtropical. Coastal cities have milder climates compared to the arid deserts of the west.
Capital City: Beijing
Main Airport: Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK)
Top Airline: Air China
Major Attraction: The Great Wall of China, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most famous landmarks in the world.
Cultural Info
Local Greeting: “Nǐ hǎo” (Hello in Mandarin)
Language: Mandarin Chinese (official), with many regional languages and dialects
Soccer Team: China National Football Team
Nicknames: “The Middle Kingdom”
Popular Athlete: Yao Ming (basketball) and Sun Yang (swimming)
Personality: Jackie Chan (actor and martial artist) and Zhang Ziyi (actress)
Economic Info
GDP/Per Capita: Approx. $12,700 (USD, 2023 estimate)
Top Export: Electronics, machinery, and textiles
Population/Rank: Approx. 1.4 billion; ranked 1st globally by population
Currency: Renminbi (RMB or Yuan, CNY)
Iconic Grub:
Top Grub: Peking Duck (a traditional dish featuring crispy duck served with thin pancakes, hoisin sauce, and scallions)
Recipe: https://www.thespruceeats.com/peking-duck-recipe-694513
Try this Grub! Dumplings (savory parcels filled with meat or vegetables, enjoyed boiled, steamed, or fried)
Recipe: https://www.chinasichuanfood.com/chinese-dumplings/
Popular Beverage: Tea (an essential part of Chinese culture, with varieties like green, black, and oolong tea)
Where to Grub: https://www.quanjude.com.cn/ (Quanjude, famous for Peking Duck in Beijing)