20 Interesting Facts About China You May Not Know

China is a land of wonders, steeped in a rich tapestry of history, culture, and unique traditions. This vast country, with its 1.4 billion inhabitants, offers an incredible variety of experiences and facts that can both surprise and fascinate. Here are 20 intriguing facts about China that you may not have known.

China: A country of records and diversity

1. China, officially known as the People's Republic of China, holds numerous records. It is the most populous country in the world, currently home to over 1.4 billion people. Additionally, it shares borders with 14 different nations, including Russia, India, and Vietnam, making it the country with the most bordering nations.

Myths and misconceptions

2. One popular myth is that the Great Wall of China is the only man-made structure visible from space. This is far from the truth. While it spans nearly 9,000 km, its width is only about 6 meters at its widest point. Built to protect China from Mongolian invasions, it's a marvel, but not visible from the cosmos. Interestingly, the extensive greenhouse fields in Almería, Spain, are actually visible from space!

Dining etiquette and cultural practices

3. Eating with chopsticks is a norm in China, and once you get the hang of it, you'll find it quite enjoyable. However, beware: sticking chopsticks upright in a bowl of rice is considered a bad omen as it resembles the incense sticks burned at funerals, which is deeply frowned upon.

Innovations that changed the world

4. Despite the reputation for imitations, the Chinese are remarkable inventors. They are credited with the creation of pivotal inventions such as the compass, gunpowder, paper, silk, and printmaking. These innovations have shaped not just their culture but the entire world.

Public restroom culture

5. Public toilets in China can be quite an experience. During my first visit, I was shocked to find no doors on stalls! While modernization has improved facilities, traditional toilets still exist, especially in rural areas. It's a reminder of how cultural practices can differ dramatically.

The origins of pasta

6. Many believe that Italy is the birthplace of spaghetti, but there’s a theory suggesting that Marco Polo brought noodles from China to Italy during his travels along the Silk Road. Although other theories argue for Sicilian origins, the debate continues.

Roman mystery in China

7. Another fascinating connection between China and Italy is found in Liqian, a village in western China. Some historians argue it was founded by Roman soldiers. The locals exhibit distinct physical features, such as aquiline noses and wavy hair, adding to the intrigue.

Symbols of luck and beliefs

8. In Chinese culture, red symbolizes good fortune, while the number 8 is considered lucky because it sounds like the word for "prosperity." Other auspicious symbols include the turtle (longevity), red envelopes (money gifts at weddings), and Fu lions (guardians of buildings).

Superstitions and practices

9. Conversely, the number 4 is seen as unlucky as it sounds like the word for "death." This superstition is so prevalent that many buildings skip the fourth floor. Interestingly, Chinese people also have a different way of counting on their fingers. While the first five are similar, the method changes significantly beyond that!

The Terracotta Army: A glimpse into history

10. A must-visit site is the Terracotta Army, located just outside Xi'an. This remarkable archaeological site houses around 7,000 life-sized statues buried with Emperor Qin Shi Huang, meant to protect him in the afterlife. Each sculpture is unique, creating a stunning visual representation of ancient military might.

Pandas: China's national treasure

11. The giant panda, a symbol of conservation efforts, is native to China and increasingly endangered. They spend up to half a day consuming bamboo, making their diet both fascinating and essential to their survival.

Natural wonders that inspire

12. The stunning landscapes of China inspired the floating mountains in the movie Avatar. The real-life counterparts can be found in the Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, where the dramatic sandstone pillars can be seen soaring into the sky.

Funeral customs and burial practices

13. In response to the common question, "If there are so many Chinese in Spain, why don't we see their graves?" the answer is straightforward. Although there are Chinese buried in Spanish cemeteries, many opt for cremation, with ashes sent back to China. Furthermore, older generations often return to China to live out their retirement.

Time zone uniqueness

14. Despite its vast size, China operates under a single time zone. Prior to 1949, there were five time zones, but the Communist Party unified it for administrative purposes. This can lead to interesting scheduling challenges across the country!

The complexity of language

15. It's essential to note that Chinese is not just one language: there are numerous dialects and languages spoken across the country. Mandarin is the most widely spoken, followed by Cantonese, illustrating the linguistic diversity within China.

Architectural marvels: The moon-gate

16. One intriguing architectural feature is the moon-gate, a circular entrance that symbolizes the full moon and was traditionally used to lead into the gardens of affluent homes. These gates add a touch of elegance and harmony to the landscape.

The internet landscape in China

17. Social media giants like Google, Twitter, and Facebook are largely inaccessible in China due to strict internet censorship. However, clever users often employ VPNs to navigate these restrictions and maintain some level of connectivity.

Unique matchmaking practices

18. While Tinder may not be popular in China, parents take matchmaking into their own hands. They organize meetups where they post descriptions of their single children on posters in public spaces, hoping to connect with other parents interested in arranging dates.

Parenting practices that astonish

19. One of the most surprising practices in China is the absence of diapers for toddlers. Instead, many children wear pants with a split in the back, allowing them to relieve themselves wherever they are. This unique approach to potty training reflects cultural differences in child-rearing practices.

Public behavior norms

20. Finally, if you happen to walk down a street in China and someone spits near you, don't take it personally. Spitting, burping, and slurping when eating are not deemed rude but rather common practices in everyday life.

These are just a few of the many curiosities about China. From its vast railway network—equivalent to two laps around the globe—to the fact that the Lunar New Year does not fall on January 1st, there is an abundance of fascinating information to discover about this incredible nation.

Backpacking in China: A Complete Travel Guide

30 Interesting Facts About South Korea and Koreans

Cultural Clashes: Understanding the Chinese Bathroom