One official time zone
China uses China Standard Time nationwide, even though the country stretches across several geographical time zones. Sunrise, sunset and everyday schedules can therefore feel much later in the far west.
Baijiu · 白酒
Baijiu is a family of strong grain spirits with many regional styles. Alcohol levels are often high, and ceremonial toasts can be part of group dining. It is acceptable to decline politely.
I cannot drink alcohol: 我不能喝酒 (wǒ bù néng hē jiǔ).
High-speed rail
China has the world's largest high-speed rail network. Some services operate at up to 350 km/h, making rail practical for many city pairs that would otherwise require a flight.
Lucky and unlucky numbers
Eight is widely associated with prosperity because of how it sounds in Chinese. Four can be avoided because its pronunciation resembles the word for death, so some buildings omit floor numbers containing 4.
Panda diplomacy
Most giant pandas living overseas today are hosted under conservation loan agreements with Chinese institutions. The animals and their offspring are closely connected to international breeding and research programmes.
The birthplace of tea
Tea cultivation and culture have deep roots in China, with major traditions built around green, white, oolong, black, yellow and dark teas. A local teahouse offers a slower view of daily life.
The Terracotta Army
The figures near Xi'an were discovered in 1974 by farmers digging a well. They were created for the vast mausoleum complex of Qin Shi Huang, China's first emperor.
The colour red
Red is strongly associated with celebration, good fortune and happiness. It appears prominently during Lunar New Year and traditional weddings, while white has different historical associations with mourning.
