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LAW OF THE PEOPLE'S REPUBLIC OF CHINA ON CONTROL OF THE ENTRY

2008-12-29T18:16:00.000-08:00

LAW OF THE PEOPLE'S REPUBLIC OF CHINA ON CONTROL OF THE ENTRY ANDEXIT OF ALIENS

(Adopted at the 13th Meeting of the Standing Committee of theSixth National People's Congress, promulgated by Order No. 31 of thePresident of the People's Republic of China on November 22, 1985, andeffective as of February 1, 1986)ContentsChapter I General ProvisionsChapter II Entry into the CountryChapter III ResidenceChapter IV TravelChapter V Exit from the CountryChapter VI Administrative OrgansChapter VII PenaltiesChapter VIII Supplementary ProvisionsChapter I General Provisions

Chapter I General

Article 1This Law is formulated with a view to safeguarding the sovereignty of the People's Republic of China, maintaining its security and public order and facilitating international exchange. This Law is applicable to aliens entering, leaving and transiting the territory of the People's Republic of China and to those residing and travelling in China

Article 2Aliens must obtain the permission of the competent authorities of theChinese Government in order to enter, transit or reside in China.

Article 3For entry, exit and transit, aliens must pass through ports open to aliens or other designated ports and must be subject to inspection by the frontier inspection offices. For entry, exit and transit, foreign-owned means of transport must pass through ports open to aliens or other designated ports and must be subject to inspection and supervision by the frontier inspection offices.

Article 4The Chinese Government shall protect the lawful rights and interests ofaliens on Chinese territory.Freedom of the person of aliens is inviolable. No alien may be arrested except with the approval or by decision of a people's procuratorate or by decision of a people's court, and arrest must be made by a public security organ or state security organ.

Article 5Aliens in China must abide by Chinese laws and may not endanger the state security of China, harm public interests or disrupt public order.

Chapter II Entry into the Country

Article 6For entry into China, aliens shall apply for visas from Chinese diplomatic missions, consular offices or other resident agencies abroad authorized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. In specific situations aliens may, in compliance with the provisions of the State Council, apply for visas to visa-granting offices at ports designated by the competent authorities of the Chinese Government. The entry of nationals from countries having visa agreements with the Chinese Government shall be handled in accordance with those agreements. In cases where another country has special provisions for Chinese citizens entering and transiting that country, the competent authorities of theChinese Government may adopt reciprocal measures contingent on thecircumstances. Visas are not required for aliens in immediate transit on connected international flights who hold passenger tickets and stay for no more than 24 hours in China entirely within airport boundaries. Anyone desiring to leave the airport temporarily must obtain permission from the frontier inspection office.

Article 7When applying for various kinds of visas, aliens shall present validpassports and, if necessary, provide pertinent evidence.

Article 8Aliens who have been invited or hired to work in China shall, whenapplying for visas, produce evidence of the invitation or employment.

Article 9Aliens desiring to reside permanently in China shall, when applying forvisas, present status-of-residence identification forms. Applicants mayobtain such forms from public security organs at the place where theyintend to reside

Article 10The competent authorities of the Chinese Government shall issueappropriate visas to aliens according to the purposes stated in theirentry applications

Article 11When an aircraft or a vessel navigating international routes arrives at a Chinese port, the captain or his agent must submit a passenger name list to the frontier inspection office; a foreign aircraft or vessel must also provide a name list of its crew members.

Article 12Aliens who are considered a possible threat to China's state security and public order shall not be permitted to enter China.

Chapter III Residence

Article 13For residence in China, aliens must possess identification papers orresidence certificates issued by the competent authorizes of the Chinese Government. The term of validity of identification papers or residence certificates shall be determined according to the purposes of entry. Aliens residing in China shall submit their certificates to the local public security organs for examination within the prescribed period of time.

Article 14Aliens who, in compliance with Chinese laws, find it necessary toestablish prolonged residence in China for the purpose of investing inChina or engaging in cooperative projects with Chinese enterprises orinstitutions in the economic, scientific, technological and culturalfields, or for other purposes, are eligible for prolonged or permanentresidence in China upon approval by the competent authorities of theChinese Government

Article 15Aliens who seek asylum for political reasons shall be permitted to reside in China upon approval by the competent authorities of the Chinese Government.

Article 16Aliens who fail to abide by Chinese laws may have their period of stay in China curtailed or their status of residence in China annulled by the competent authorities of the Chinese Government.

Article 17For a temporary overnight stay in China, aliens shall completeregistration procedures pursuant to the relevant provisions

Article 18Aliens holding residence certificates who wish to change their place ofresidence in China must complete removal formalities pursuant to therelevant provisions

Article 19Aliens who have not acquired residence certificates or who are on a study programme in China may not seek employment in China without permission of the competent authorities of the Chinese Government.

Chapter IV Travel

Article 20Aliens who hold valid visas or residence certificates may travel to places open to aliens as designated by the Chinese Government

Article 21Aliens desiring to travel to places closed to aliens must apply to local public security organs for travel permits

Chapter V Exit from the Country

Article 22For exit from China, aliens shall present their valid passports or other valid certificates.

Article 23Aliens belonging to any of the following categories shall not be allowed to leave China:(1) defendants in criminal cases or criminal suspects confirmed by apublic security organ, a people's procuratorate or a people's court;(2) persons who, as notified by a people's court, shall be denied exitowing to involvement in unresolved civil cases; and(3) persons who have committed other acts in violation of Chinese law who have not been dealt with and against whom the competent authoritiesconsider it necessary to institute prosecution.

Article 24Frontier inspection offices shall have the power to stop aliens belonging to any of the following categories from leaving the country and to deal with them according to law:(1) holders of invalid exit certificates;(2) holders of exit certificates other than their own; and(3) holders of forged or altered exit certificates.

Chapter VI Administrative Organs

Article 25China's diplomatic missions, consular offices and other resident agencies abroad authorized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs shall be the Chinese Government's agencies abroad to handle aliens' applications for entry and transit.The Ministry of Public Security, its authorized local public securityorgans, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and its authorized local foreign affairs departments shall be the Chinese Government's agencies in China to handle aliens' applications for entry, transit, residence and travel.

Article 26The authorities handling aliens' applications for entry, transit,residence and travel shall have the power to refuse to issue visas andcertificates or to cancel visas and certificates already issued or declare them invalid.The Ministry of Public Security and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs may,when necessary, alter decisions made by their respectively authorized agencies.

Article 27An alien who enters or resides in China illegally may be detained forexamination or be subjected to residential surveillance or deportation by a public security organ at or above the county level.

Article 28While performing their duties, foreign affairs police of the publicsecurity organs at or above the county level shall have the power toexamine the passports and other certificates of aliens. When conductingsuch examinations, the foreign affairs police shall produce their ownservice certificates, and relevant organizations or individuals shall have the duty to offer them assistance.

Chapter VII Penalties

Article 29If a person, in violation of the provisions of this Law, enters or leaves China illegally, establishes illegal residence or makes an illegal stopover in China, travels to places closed to aliens without a valid travel document, forges or alters an entry or exit certificate, uses another person's certificate as his own or transfers his certificate, he may be penalized by a public security organ at or above the county level with a warning, a fine or detention for not more than ten days. If the circumstances of the case are serious enough to constitute a crime,criminal responsibility shall be investigated in accordance with the law.If an alien subject to a fine or detention by a public security organrefuses to accept the penalty, he may, within 15 days of receivingnotification, appeal to the public security organ at the next higherlevel, which shall make the final decision; he may also directly file suit in the local people's court

Article 30In cases where a person commits any of the acts stated in Article 29 ofthis Law, if the circumstances are serious, the Ministry of PublicSecurity may impose a penalty by ordering him to leave the country within a certain time or may expel him from the country.

Chapter VIII Supplementary Provisions

Article 31For the purposes of this Law the term "alien" means any person not holding Chinese nationality according to the Nationality Law of the People'sRepublic of China.

Article 32Transistory entry into and exit from China by aliens who are nationals of a country adjacent to China and who reside in areas bordering on China shall be handled according to any relevant agreements between the two countries or, in the absence of such agreements, according to the relevant provisions of the Chinese Government.

Article 33The Ministry of Public Security and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs shall,pursuant to this Law, formulate rules for its implementation, which shall go into effect after being submitted to and approved by the State Council.

Article 34Affairs concerning members of foreign diplomatic missions and consularoffices in the People's Republic of China and other aliens who enjoydiplomatic privileges and immunities, after their entry into China, shall be administered in accordance with the relevant provisions of the State Council and its competent departments.

Article 35This Law shall go into effect on February 1, 1986

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working visa in china

2008-12-24T21:58:00.000-08:00

BEFORE LEAVING YOUR COUNTRY
Before leaving your country, you need to apply for and obtain a visa, which when added to your passport will allow you entrance into China.
To work legally in China, you need the following: *Z-visa (aka working visa) *Foreign Expert/Work Certificate *Residence permit
The other three types of visas are the tourist (L) visa, the business (F) visa, and the student (X) visa.

Z-VISA
The Z-visa allows you to come into China with the intention to work. It is a single-entry visa that is valid for 30 days after arriving in China.
In order to be approved for a Z-visa, you will need the following: * Letter of invitation from your employer *Work permit that your employer obtains on your behalf *Medical check (in some cases)
China only issues Z-visas to those they consider to be experts in a particular field. For example, being a native English speaker allows one to teach English in China. Having a Master's Degree, quantifiable work experience, or professional accreditation also qualifies you for a Z-visa.
To teach English in China, you must have the following to obtain a Z-visa: *A university degree *Professional work experience *A teaching English as a foreign language certificate (TEFL)

AFTER ARRIVAL
1. Register with the Public Security Bureau (PSB) After arriving in China, within 48 hours, you need to register with the Public Security Bureau (PSB).
2. Medical Examination Next, you need to pass a medical examination. It is non-invasive, and must be completed within a month of your arrival in China.
3. Foreign Expert/Work Certificate Approximately a week after receiving the medical report, the Foreign Expert/Work Certificate, or Red Book, can be issued.
4. Interview with PSB In some cities, you could also be called in for an interview with the PSB.
5. Residence permit Finally, your employer can obtain your residence permit for you. Obtaining this is imperative in order to work legally in China.

GENERAL INFORMATION
In China, the visa process is decentralized, which means that depending on where you live and what sort of license your employer has, your visa procedure may vary. There are city specific, district specific, and license specific regulations.
In most cases, to extend a Z-visa requires you to return to your original country. This means if you are currently in China on a different visa, you need to return and apply for a new visa in your original country before starting work in China. Some employers will provide airfare compensation.

WHY DO WE NEED TO KNOW THIS?
To work abroad in any country requires an official work visa in order to enter. China also requires a visa if foreigners plans to visit for tourism or leisure. Without the correct documentation, you will be denied entry. If you do not complete the full visa process or work without a working, or Z-visa, you and your employer will both be fined upwards of 50,000 RMB, and you will be deported. From the moment you enter the country, your identification information will be registered into a national database and tracked. Thus, it is highly recommended that you are familiar with all the visa requirements, although they are subject to change regularly without notice.

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2008-12-23T17:49:00.000-08:00

What is the fundamental principles of Law on the Entry of Aliens of the peoples Republic of China?
Law on the Entry and Exit of Aliens of the People??s Republic of China (referred as the Aliens Law in the following) was adopted on the Thirteenth Meeting of the Sixth Session of the Standing Committee of National People??s Congress and took effect from February 1,1986.THE Basic principles of the Aliens Law are: To protect the opening policy of our country, facilitate the international exchange, promote the construction of socialism modernization and protect the legitimate rights and interests of aliens.

What are the regulations on the entry, pass and residence of aliens?
The Aliens Law stipulates that any entry into China, pass through China or residence in Chinese government. The term of the visa-exemption agreement apply to the citizens from those countries that have signed such agreement with Chinese movement. Aliens that stay in China for no more than 24 hours without exit from the airport may be exempted from visa.

How could the foreign experts apply for their entry visas?
The foreign experts may apply for visas to the Chinese diplomatic representative organization, consulate or other overseas organizations authorized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs

How many types of visas are offered in China?
After examining the application of aliens, the authority in charge of visa shall grant corresponding visas to those who meet the requirement according to the application causes. Chinese government issues four types of visas: visa of diplomacy, visa of courtesy, visa of official matters and ordinary visas. General aliens obtain ordinary visas when they co me to China.
In favor of the administration, ordinary visas are divided into seven types and each is marked with a capital letter.
(1) Visa D is issued to those who come to China for permanent residence.
(2) Visa Z is issued to those who come to China to work in China and their accompanying family members.
(3) Visa X is issued to those who come to China to China to study or practice as interns for more than six months.
(4) Visa F is issued to those who come to China to visit, teach, do business, or for cultural, scientific or technological exchanges for less than six months.
(5) Visa L is issued to those who come to China to travel, visit friends and relatives or to deal with some private matters.
(6) Visa G is issued to those who need a stopover in China.
(7) Visa C is issued to the crews of airplanes, trains and ships who are on regular visits to China. Their accompanying family members are issued with the same type of visa.
(8) Visa J-1 is delivered to foreign resident journalists in China, and Visa J-2 to foreign journalists who come to China to gather news.

According to the above regulations, foreign experts who come to China for long-term service should apply for Visa Z on their entry. Those who are invited to visit, teach or participate in the exchange of science, technology and culture and stay in China for a short term should apply for Visa F on entry.

How to apply for Visa Z for the foreign experts who enter China for work?
According to the regulations, foreign experts, who plan to work in China for more than 6 months, should present their invitation letters, valid passports and certificates, and Confirmation for Invitation of Foreign Experts (original file )to Chinese diplomatic representative organization, consulate or other overseas organizations entrusted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for application of Visa Z.

What certifications shall be provided when applying for visa ?
To present the valid passport or other certificate(s) that can be used in place of a passport, to fill in a visa application form, and hand in recent frontal hatless half-length photos; to present documents of certification pertaining to the purposes for entry or the invitation letter from the host institution or the certificate-issuing authority; those who come to China for residence of one year or more shall produce health certificates including AIDS serum examination report issued by health departments designated by health departments designated by the governments of the countries the applicants reside in, the health certificates shall remain valid within a period of six months as of the date of issue.

What is the employment term under which foreign expert working in china must present the health certificate?
Article 5of the Provisions for the Monitoring and Control of AIDS approved by the State Council on December 26, 1987,and promulgated jointly by the Ministry of Public Health, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Public Security, the Ministry of Education, the National Tourism Administration, the Civil Aviation Administration of china and the State administration of Foreign Expert Affairs stipulates that: when applying for entry visa, any foreigner who plans to settle down in china or stay (or study )in china for one year or longer is required to produce the AIDS Serological Examination Certificate issued by a public hospital or by a private hospital notarized by the notary office in the country of origin and the certificate must be authenticated by the Chinese Embassy or consulate in that country. The certificate shall remain valid for six months as of the date of issue.
Among the foreign experts and workers working in china, except those who work in journalism or publication areas with working term of 1 year, most of them in the colleges work for 1 school year, but they used to travel or stay for some time in china after the expiration of the contract. However, the visa term is usually 1year. Therefore, the invited foreign experts, the foreign workers and their family members shall present the health certificate including the AIDS Serological Examination.

How to handle the concrete procedures on the health certificate that the foreign experts are required to present?
The host institution may acquire the Health Examination Record of Aliens and Notice on the Sanitation and Quarantine for Entry uniformly printed by the Ministry of Public Health from the local sanitation and quarantine authority and send them to the foreign experts and foreign workers before they come to china. Alternatively, the institution may notify the invited persons to acquire them from Chinese overseas diplomatic missions or consular offices. Whatefer the way is, the host institution must remind the invited persons to perform the health examination as required. The hospital shall fill in the Health Examination Record of Aliens with two copies, one sent to the host institution, the other presented to Chinese overseas diplomatic missions or consular offices for notarization when handling the visa for entry and carried at the time of entry. After entry, the host institution shall present the Health Examination Record of Aliens of the invited persons to the local sanitation and quarantine authority for notarization. The sanitation and quarantine authority is responsible for the grant of Validation Certificate of Health Examination Record of Aliens and the public security organ issues the residence permit to alien according to the Validation Certificate.

What to do in case the foreign experts fail to undergo the AIDS Serological Examination for lack of necessary conditions before coming to china?
The Provisions for the Monitoring and Control of AIDS points out that: foreign nationals who fail to undergo AIDS serological examination in their home countries for lack of necessary conditions, must go to a designated professional health organ for the examination within 20 days after entry

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Introductions of Beautiful cities in China

2008-12-21T17:09:00.000-08:00

Modern Shanghai
Shanghai, Hu for short, is situated on the estuary of Yangtze River of China. It is the largest industrial city in China. Covering an area of 5,800 square kilometers (2,239 square miles), Shanghai has a population of 18.7 million, including 2 million floating population. Originally, Shanghai was a seaside fishing village and in time its gradual development led to it being granted County status on August 19th, 1291 during the Yuan Dynasty (1271-1368). Hence this day became the anniversary of the founding of Shanghai. Today's Shanghai is a multi-cultural metropolis with both modern and traditional Chinese features. Bubbling Shanghai shows off every aspect of her unique glamour.
Shanghai is China's biggest city, largest port and one of the world's vital financial centers. It was also one of the first ports opened to foreign trade. Rising from a fishing village, Shanghai is one of the four municipalities directly under the central government. Aside from Pudong New District, Shanghai has jurisdiction over 13 districts and six suburban counties. The total area of Shanghai is 6340 square kilometers. Shanghai sits in a sub-tropical monsoon climate, with moderate temperatures and humidity and adequate sunshine. Rainfall is abundant and the seasons are distinct. The average temperature of Shanghai is 15.4 degrees Celsius, with the high averaging 27.4 degrees in July-August and the low 3-5 degrees below zero in January. Shanghai is a city with a long history. In the long-term development, it has formed its own unique city scene and varied cultures and arts. Up to now, a lot of cultural relics beginning in the Tang (618-917) and Song (960-1279) Dynasties, many museums and contemporary memorial halls are well preserved. There are a lot of tourist centers in urban districts and suburbs of Shanghai, which form many tourist areas, tourist lines and special-interest tourist items.

Paradise Hangzhou
Hangzhou is one of the important tourism cities in China, famous for its natural beauty and historical and cultural heritages. Hangzhou is the capital of Zhejiang province. It is the political, economic and cultural center of the province as well. It is one of the 15 vice-provincial level cities in China. Hangzhou is located on the low reaches of Qiantang river in southeast China, with a distance of 180 kilometers to Shanghai. It is one of the key cities in the Yangzi Delta area. Hangzhou is of subtropical monsoon climate, with distinctive four seasons and mild atmosphere and favorable geographical positions and natural conditions. Hangzhou has 6 districts, 2 counties and 5 county-level municipalities under its jurisdiction. Hangzhou covers a total area of 16596 square kilometers, with a population of 6.08 million, including 683 square kilometers of city proper area and city population of 1.69 million people . Hangzhou is one of the cradles of Chinese civilization. The human being had lived and prospered in this land 4700 years ago, which is called "Liangzhu Culture". Hangzhou had once been the capitals of Wu and Yue kingdoms of Five Dynasties during the 10th Century and capital of Southern Song Dynasty during the 12-13th Century. It is one of the seven ancient Chinese capitals, famous for its historical and cultural heritages. The city has a history of more than 2200 years since it was established as a county by the First Emperor Qing.
The West Lake is undoubtedly the most renowned feature of Hangzhou, noted for the scenic beauty that blends naturally with many famous historical and cultural sites. In this scenic area, Solitary Hill, the Mausoleum of General Yue Fei, the Six Harmonies Pagoda and the Ling Yin Temple are probably the most frequently visited attractions. The "Ten West Lake Prospects" have been specially selected to give the visitor outstanding views of the lake, mountains and monuments.

Historic Xi’an
Xi'an, the historical city, was called Chang'an in ancient times, and is now the capital of Shaanxi province. Xi'an is situated in the center of Weihe Plain with the towering and verdant Mt. Qinling in the south, with the meandering and rolling Beishan mountain system in the north and eight rivers around it, all of which are at Guang Zhong Plain (the center of passes). Historically, it was famous for being called "a gold city stretching a thousand li" with its fertile soil, mild climate, adequate rainfall and rich products. Xi'an has a long history. Since the earliest societies, humanity lived and multiplied here. It served as a capital for twelve dynasties, including the Western Zhou, Qin, Western Han, Sui and Tang dynasties, spanning over 1120 years. It became the oriental cultural center of the Silk Road.
Xian is the most important city in northwest China, and so there are a lot of shopping outlets for locals and tourists alike. There are many big shopping centers, department stores and supermarkets in and around Xian city - the biggest and most comprehensive being Kai Yuan Shopping Mall and Century Ginwa Shopping Mall. The night life in Xian has a unique glamour. Traditional ways include enjoying the night scenery around the Bell Tower, taking part in a Tang Dynasty Dinner Show, strolling on the ancient Big Wild Goose Pagoda Square and watching the music fountain performance. More modern and fashionable ways include singing in the KTV, hanging out in a bar, or dancing in a Disco. All in all, any experience in this ancient city will bring you fun and possibly a little surprise! Xian is the capital of Shaanxi province, located in the southern part of the Guanzhong Plain. With the Qinling Mountains to the south and the Weihe River to the north, it is in a favorable geographical location surrounded by water and hills. It has a semi-moist monsoon climate and there is a clear distinction between the four seasons. Except the colder winter, any season is relatively suitable for traveling

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The Terra Cotta Warriors

2008-12-17T22:52:00.000-08:00

Emperor Qin Shihuang’s Mausoleum and the Terra-cotta Warriors and Horses Museum

Emperor Qin Shihuang (259-210B.C.) had Ying as his surname and Zheng as his given name. He name to the throne of the Qin at age 13, and took the helm of the state at age of 22. By 221 B.C., he had annexed the six rival principalities of Qi, Chu, Yan, Han, Zhao and Wei, and established the first feudal empire in China’s history.

In the year 221 B.C., when he unified the whole country, Ying Zheng styled himself emperor. He named himself Shihuang Di, the first emperor in the hope that his later generations be the second, the third even the one hundredth and thousandth emperors in proper order to carry on the hereditary system. Since then, the supreme feudal rulers of China’s dynasties had continued to call themselves Huang Di, the emperor.

After he had annexed the other six states, Emperor Qin Shihuang abolished the enfeoffment system and adopted the prefecture and county system. He standardized legal codes, written language, track, currencies, weights and measures. To protect against harassment by the Hun aristocrats. Emperor Qin Shihuang ordered the Great Wall be built. All these measures played an active role in eliminating the cause of the state of separation and division and strengthening the unification of the whole country as well as promotion the development of economy and culture. They had a great and deep influence upon China’s 2,000 year old feudal society.

Emperor Qin Shihuang ordered the books of various schools burned except those of the Qin dynasty’s history and culture, divination and medicines in an attempt to push his feudal autocracy in the ideological field. As a result, China’s ancient classics had been devastated and destroy. Moreover, he once ordered 460 scholars be buried alive. Those events were later called in history“the burning of books and the burying of Confucian scholars.”

Emperor Qin Shihuang，for his own pleasure, conscribed several hundred thousand convicts and went in for large-scale construction and had over seven hundred palaces built in the Guanzhong Plain. These palaces stretched several hundred li and he sought pleasure from one palace to the other. Often nobody knew where he ranging treasures inside the tomb, were enclosed alive.

Emperor Qin Shihuang’s Mausoleum has not yet been excavated. What looks like inside could noly be known when it is opened. However, the three pits of the terra-cotta warriot excavated outside the east gate of the outer enclosure of the necropolis can make one imagine how magnificent and luxurious the structure of Emperor Qin Shihuang’s Mausoleum was

In December 1980, two teams of large painted bronze chariots and horses were unearthed 20 metres west of the mound of Emperor Qin Shihuang’s Mausoleum. These single shaft four-horse chariots each comprises 3,462 spare parts, and has a body with two compartments, one behind the other, and an elliptical umbrella like canopy. The four horses harnessed to the chariot are 65-67 centimeters tall. The restored bronze chariots and horses are exact imitations of true chariot, horse and driver in half life-size.

The chariots and horses are decorated with coloured drawings against white background. They have been fitted with more than 1,500 piecese of gold and silvers and decorations, looking luxurious, splendid and graceful. Probably they were meant for the use of Emperor Qin Shihuang’s soul to go on inspection. The bronze chariots and horses were made by lost wax casting, which shows a high level of technology. For instance, the tortoise-shell-like canopy is about 4mm thick, and the window is only 1mm thick on which are many small holes for ventilation. According to a preliminary study, the technology of manufacturing the bronze chariots and horses has involved casting, welding, reveting, inlaying embedding and chiseling. The excavation of the bronze chariots and horses provides extremely valuable material and data for the textual research of the metallurgical technique, the mechanism of the chariot and technological modeling of the Qin dynasty.

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Chinese people

2008-12-17T19:42:00.000-08:00

China is a unified nation consisting of many different ethnic groups. Fifty-six different ethnic groups make up the great Chinese national family. Because the Han people accounts for more than ninety percent of China's population, the remaining fifty-five groups are generally referred to as "ethnic minorities." Next to the majority Han, the Mongolian, Hui, Tibetan, and Uygur peoples comprise the largest ethnic groups. Although China's ethnic minorities do not account for a large portion of the population, they are distributed over a vast area, residing in every corner of China.

Particularly since the implementation of China's opening and reform policy, the central government has increased investment in minority areas and accelerated their opening to the outside world. This has resulted in an upsurge of economic development in these areas. Each of China's ethnic minority groups possesses a distinctive culture. The Chinese government respects minority customs, and works to preserve, study, and collate the cultural artifacts of China's ethnic minority groups. The government vigorously supports the development of minority culture and the training of minority cultural workers, and fosters the development of traditional minority medicine.

The relation among China's ethnic groups can be described as "overall integration, local concentration, mutual interaction." Concentrations of ethnic minorities reside within predominantly Han areas, and the Han people also reside in minority areas, indicating that there has been extensive exchanges among China's ethnic groups since ancient times. With the development of the market economy, interaction among ethnic groups has become even more active in the areas of government, economics, culture, daily life, and marriage. Linked by interdependence, mutual assistance, and joint development, their common goals and interests creating a deep sense of solidarity, China's ethnic groups resemble a great national family, together building Chinese civilization.

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Chinese media

2008-12-17T19:34:00.000-08:00

The Chinese Constitution guarantees citizens' freedom of speech and information. With economic development, the media tends to become more diversified. According to statistics, there are over 2,000 newspapers, over 8,000 magazines, 311 radio stations and 358 TV stations in China. By the end of 2001, there were 770 medium- and short-wave radio transmitting and relay stations, and 88.03 million households with access to cable television, covering 92.9 and 94.1 percent of the population, respectively. Radio and TV now extend their reach through multiple transmission, including satellites, and wireless and wired systems.

China has two news agencies -- Xinhua (New China) News Agency and China News Service. Xinhua is the nation's official news agency, with its head office in Beijing. Its major task is to collect and distribute important news and information concerning politics, economy and culture in both China and the rest of the world. Xinhua News Agency has become one of the major international news agencies in the world, with over 100 branch offices in the Asian-Pacific region, the Middle East, Latin America, Africa and other regions. It has signed contracts with over 80 foreign news agencies and political comment and news departments for exchanging news and news photos.

With its head office also in Beijing, China News Service mainly supplies news to overseas Chinese, foreign citizens of Chinese origin, and compatriots in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, the Macao Special Administrative Region, and Taiwan.

From 1950 to 2000, the number of newspapers increased by approximately 11 times, which enabled China to rank among the world's most advanced countries in this respect. Aiming at various groups of readers, the formats of newspapers are becoming more and more rich and colorful, including daily, evening, morning, noon and weekly newspapers. Farmers, workers, enterprises and professional people are all catered for. Of these newspapers, some focus on transmitting economic, scientific and technological information, and some aim at satisfying cultural and entertainment needs. Special newspapers offering various types of information and advertisements have appeared in great numbers, some of them being free of charge. This is a new phenomenon in recent years.

The Central People's Broadcasting Station (CPBS), the nation's official radio station, has seven channels, and broadcasts for a total of over 100 hours per day. Every province, autonomous region and municipality have local broadcasting stations, which relay some programs from the CPBS and programs with local characteristics. The programs of China Radio International (CRI) are now beamed to all parts of the world in 38 foreign languages, standard Chinese and four Chinese dialects. Besides news programs, there are over 400 special programs. Currently, CRI ranks third in overseas broadcasting time and languages in the world.

China's television industry entered a golden age, beginning in the 1980s. Thereafter, for approximately 10 years the television viewing population increased by 61 million every year. China Central Television (CCTV) is the largest and most powerful national television station. At present, CCTV has established business relations with more than 250 television organizations in over 130 countries and regions.

CCTV and more than 3,000 other television stations nationwide in various provinces, autonomous regions and municipalities and the cities, districts and counties under their jurisdictions, as well as the satellite and ground network systems constitute the largest television network in the world. Besides appraisal and giving awards, the annual Shanghai Television Festival also conducts academic television exchanges and the import and export of television programs, and holds international exhibitions and technology exchanges. Shanghai has become the largest television program trading market in Asia.

Since the mid-1990s, a "fourth medium" -- internet news medium industry -- has been in operation, which depends on traditional media while being different from them. Quite a number of famous websites have taken shape, which operate according to the process of regular news media and are able to create strong public opinion rapidly on the Internet with their news reports. Some large-scale traditional media are constantly reconstructing their websites to adjust themselves to the operation law of the "fourth medium." Over 700 traditional media countrywide have set up their websites with independent domain names. Experts predict that, in the 10 to 20 years to come, the influence of the "fourth medium" may become greater than that of periodicals, radio and TV. It is estimated that, by 2005, there will be as many as 40 million computers in China connected to the Internet, and 200 million users of data, multi-media and the Internet, with about 15 percent of the population having access to the internet.

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Chinese Education

2008-12-17T19:32:00.000-08:00

The Chinese Constitution requires that all Chinese children receive nine years of compulsory education, including six years of primary school and three years of junior middle school.

Higher education has developed substantially in the fifty years since the founding of the People's Republic of China. A three-tier degree system, offering bachelor's, masters, and doctorate degrees, was instituted in 1981. Following a series of reforms, a diverse, multi-level system of higher education has been initiated, encompassing a full range of subjects and suited to the needs of the national economy and social development. China's institutions of higher learning include comprehensive universities and specialized universities or institutes. Most specialized programs take three years, with a small number taking two years; comprehensive programs generally take four years, with a small number taking five or six years. China has a number of famous universities, including Peking University, Tsinghua University, Fudan University, Nankai University, Beijing University of Science and Technology, Jilin University, Wuhan University, and Nanjing University. After completing their studies, some college graduates enter the job market, while others may pursue a second bachelor's degree or enter a master's or doctoral program. People who have received a doctorate may choose to continue their studies abroad. Students face tests at every level of China's educational system, and only those who surmount these hurdles are granted the opportunity to pursue a higher level of education.

China's universities produced 829,100 graduates with bachelors degrees between 1979 and 1997, 2.58 times as many as during the previous thirty years. Universities and research institutes awarded a total of 20,514 doctorates and 285,943 masters degrees between 1981 and 1996. Statistics indicate that there were 1,071 universities in China in 1999, and that the number of university students rose from 6.43 million in 1998 to 12.14 million by 2001, an increase of 89%. During this period, the number of master's degree students rose from 150,000 to 290,000, an increase of 93%, and the number of doctoral students rose from 45,000 to 77,000, an increase of 71%. China's institutions of higher learning have produced a large amount of advanced scientific research and technical applications. As of the end of 2001, universities had won 250 State awards in the natural sciences, 50% of the national total; 1,002 State awards for technical inventions, 34% of the national total; and 2,100 State awards for advances in science and technology, 26% of the national total. Universities account for over 60% of all scientific and technical studies published domestically and abroad each year.

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Chinese Medicine

2008-11-28T20:08:00.000-08:00

Many Chinese people, especially the older generation, are accustomed to going to traditional Chinese doctors and using traditional Chinese remedies. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has a history stretching back thousands of years. TCM is an extremely rich discipline, built upon the combined experiences of famous practitioners of past dynasties, and the extensive body of medical writings they produced.

The theories of TCM are quite different from those of Western medicine. TCM considers Nature and Human to form a single whole, and emphasizes the philosophical concept known as "The Unity of Heaven and Human." Environmental factors such as the four seasons and changes in temperature and weather are believed to influence the human body, with the body and Nature forming an integrated system. For instance, when the weather is hot in the spring, humid in the summer, dry in the fall, or cold in the winter, TCM employs treatments known as "eliminating fire," "expelling dampness," "moistening the body," and "guarding against cold" respectively. All parts and systems of the body are considered to be closely connected and mutually interacting. "The outside of the body is Yang, the inside is Yin; the back is Yang, the abdomen is Yin." TCM utilizes Yin-Yang Theory and Five Elements Theory, which advocate "administering treatment according to pattern," rather than "treating the head when the head hurts; treating the foot when the foot hurts." According to the Five Elements Theory, the liver and gallbladder are Wood, the heart is Fire, the spleen and stomach are Earth, the lungs and intestines are Metal, and the kidneys and bladder are Water. When Yin and Yang are out of balance, disease and disorder result. Diagnosis relies on inspecting the complexion, smelling the breath, inquiring about symptoms, and feeling the pulse in order to determine the overall condition of the body.

Traditional Chinese remedies consist of natural preparations. Several thousand years of experimentation have determined the specific medicinal properties of numerous herbs, and the specific prescriptions and treatments that should be used for a wide range of conditions. The famous Compendium of Materia Medica , written by Li Shizhen during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), contains comprehensive descriptions of thousands of Chinese herbal remedies. Traditional Chinese remedies may either be taken internally or applied externally to promote the recovery of normal functioning, in accordance with the theory of "administering treatment according to pattern." Thus the saying, "Western medicine treats the symptom, Chinese medicine treats the root." As more people have become interested in alternative lifestyles in recent years, there has been a corresponding upsurge of interest in herbal medicine and non-pharmaceutical treatments. Traditional Chinese medicine and remedies have become increasingly popular around the world, and the number of Sino-foreign exchanges concerning traditional Chinese medicine and remedies has steadily increased. Japan, the United States, and Germany have established a number of cooperative projects with China, and the World Health Organization has opened seven traditional Chinese medicine centers in China.

Studies concerning acupuncture, moxibustion, and the use of acupuncture for anesthesia and pain relief have been published in 120 countries and regions around world. In 1987, the World Acupuncture Association, consisting of over 50,000 members from almost 100 countries and regions, was established in Beijing. In 1991, the International Association of Traditional Chinese Medicine was established in China, with representatives from several dozen countries jointly drafting the "Beijing Proclamation." To date, China has established medical, research, and educational exchanges in the field of TCM with more than 100 countries and regions.

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China becomes major education, employment destination

2008-11-28T18:49:00.001-08:00

Figures released by the Chinese government departments have shown China is becoming one of the world's most popular education and employment destinations.

Statistics released by the Ministry of Education showed that in 2005, 141,000 overseas students came to China to study, up 27.28 percent from the previous year, with 86,679 studying Mandarin (Putonghua).

"The year 2005 saw China attracting the largest number of overseas students since the People's Republic of China was founded in 1949, thanks to the country's stable political environment, rapid economic growth and growing international influence," said Zhang Xiuqin, secretary-general of the China Scholarship Council.

Hong Changwoo, a student of Beijing Language and Culture University from the Republic of Korea (ROK), told Xinhua that a large number of young people in the ROK are keen on studying Mandarin, as more and more companies in the ROK require their employees to speak Chinese.

Zhang said the residential environment, education quality and medical and social insurance provided by Chinese higher learning institutes for overseas students all reached international standards. Meanwhile, China's tuition fees for overseas students are much lower than those in most other countries.

Statistics from the Ministry of Education showed that from 1950 to 2005, China received a total of 884,315 overseas students.

But Zhang acknowledged that problems still exist. The Chinese government has approved in principle overseas students applying for part-time jobs in China but there are no regulations on how many hours an overseas student can work a day and what kinds of vocations or industries are open for overseas students to work in.

Meanwhile, statistics from the Ministry of Labor and Social Security showed that by the end of 2005, more than 150,000 overseas employees had registered to work in China. 70 percent of them worked in foreign-invested companies and they are mostly from Japan, Republic of Korea, Singapore, the United States and European countries.

"The Chinese government encourages foreigners with special technological, managerial skills that China is currently short of to work in China," said Wang Yadong, deputy director of the Employment Training Department of the Ministry of Labor and Social Security.

According to the ministry, a majority of the foreigners work in hi-tech, communication, and financing industries. There are more than 500 multinational companies in Shanghai, with more than 40,000 foreign talents.

Kritian Kender, a business partner of a media research company in China who has been working here for more than ten years said there were no interesting jobs back in the United States when he graduated.

"It's not very difficult for foreigners to find jobs in China," he said, noting that to have an interesting job is more difficult and even more difficult to start business because the procedure is quite time consuming and complicated. China issued a "green card" policy in 2004 for foreigner to have long-term residence and work. By the end of September last year, 649 foreigners from 33 countries including the United States, Canada, Singapore, Japan and Australia had been granted permanent residence in China.

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chinese thanks giving propose the interpersonal harmony

2008-11-27T00:07:00.000-08:00

A member of China's top advisory body has proposed a Chinese Thanksgiving Day, a public day to boost harmony among the people.

"I think such a holiday will remind the children of their parents' attention and love and teach them how to be thankful and considerate to their elders," said Chen Wanzhi, a member of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), during a panel discussion on Tuesday. "It willalso remind the adults to be more caring and tolerant of others."

"I think such a holiday will remind the children of their parents' attention and love and teach them how to be thankful and considerate to their elders," said Chen Wanzhi, a member of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), during a panel discussion on Tuesday. "It willalso remind the adults to be more caring and tolerant of others."

The advisor from the southwestern Chongqing municipality proposed the Chinese celebrate their own Thanksgiving on the Western Father's Day. "We can encourage the children to help theirparents with housework on that day so that they can understand their parents better and learn to care more for others."

It constitutes part of the Chinese national character since ancient times to stay thankful and ready to repay others' kindness,acknowledge Chen. "We need to preserve the good quality in the present-day society."

China's one-child generation, as the center of their family life, are increasingly taking their parents' love for granted, said Chen.

"Heavy school assignment load and intense competitions for higher learning also caused some youngsters to be aparthetic and indifferent to others' feelings," he added, "and the same is true in the adult world."

The proposal has been commended by many citizens in Beijing. "For the children, to be grateful is the first step towards filial piety," said a Beijing-based engineer who gave only her surname asLei. "I think it's a very good idea, as the holiday will be another ideal opportunity for family union with their parents," said Mr. Liu, whose parents are not living in the same city.

But some people have questioned to what extent a holiday can really boost harmony. "Not all social issues can be solved with a holiday," said Prof. Zhou Xiaozheng of the Beijing-based People's University of China. "We have to carry out research and analysis before making a proposal."

A Beijing school teacher said it is equally important to boost the young people's respect for the traditional culture, instead ofblindly following Western concepts. "Even if we have a so-called 'Thanksgiving Day', we should underline its Chinese characteristics," said Li Deqiang, an English teacher with Beijing No. 5 Middle School.

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Various types of Chinese Cuisine

2008-11-26T22:21:00.000-08:00

China covers a large territory and has many nationalities, hence a variety of Chinese food with different but fantastic and mouthwatering flavor. Since China's local dishes have their own typical characteristics, generally, Chinese food can be roughly divided into eight regional cuisines, which has been widely accepted around. Certainly, there are many other local cuisines that are famous, such as Beijing Cuisine and Shanghai Cuisine.

Shandong Cuisine

Consisting of Jinan cuisine and Jiaodong cuisine, Shandong cuisine, clear, pure and not greasy, is characterized by its emphasis on aroma, freshness, crispness and tenderness. Shallot and garlic are usually used as seasonings so Shangdong dishes tastes pungent usually. Soups are given much emphasis in Shangdong dishes. Thin soup features clear and fresh while creamy soup looks thick and tastes strong. Jinan cuisine is adept at deep-frying, grilling, frying and stir-frying while Jiaodong division is famous for cooking seafood with fresh and light taste.

Shandong is the birthplace of many famous ancient scholars such as Confucious and Mencius. And much of Shandong cuisine's history is as old as Confucious himself, making it the oldest existing major cuisine in China. But don't expect to gain more wisdom from a fortune cookie at a Shandong restaurant in the West since fortune cookies aren't even indigenous to China.

Shandong is a large peninsula surrounded by the sea to the East and the Yellow River meandering through the center. As a result, seafood is a major component of Shandong cuisine. Shandong's most famous dish is the Sweat and Sour Carp. A truly authentic Sweet and Sour Carp must come from the Yellow River. But with the current amount of pollution in the Yellow River, you would be better off if the carp was from elsewhere. Shandong dishes are mainly quick-fried, roasted, stir-fried or deep-fried. The dishes are mainly clear, fresh and fatty, perfect with Shandong's own famous beer, Qingdao Beer

Sichuan Cuisine

Sichuan Cuisine, known often in the West as Szechuan Cuisine, is one of the most famous Chinese cuisines in the world. Characterized by its spicy and pungent flavor, Sichuan cuisine, prolific of tastes, emphasizes on the use of chili. Pepper and prickly ash also never fail to accompany, producing typical exciting tastes. Besides, garlic, ginger and fermented soybean are also used in the cooking process. Wild vegetables and animals are usually chosen as ingredients, while frying, frying without oil, pickling and braising are applied as basic cooking techniques. It cannot be said that one who does not experience Sichuan food ever reaches China.

If you eat Sichuan cuisine and find it too bland, then you are probably not eating authentic Sichuan cuisine. Chili peppers and prickly ash are used in many dishes, giving it a distinctively spicy taste, called ma in Chinese. It often leaves a slight numb sensation in the mouth. However, most peppers were brought to China from the Americas in the 18th century so you can thank global trade for much of Sichuan cuisine's excellence. Sichuan hot pots are perhaps the most famous hotpots in the world, most notably the Yuan Yang (mandarin duck) Hotpot half spicy and half clear.

Guangdong Cuisine

Cantonese food originates from Guangdong, the southernmost province in China. The majority of overseas Chinese people are from Guangdong (Canton) so Cantonese is perhaps the most widely available Chinese regional cuisine outside of China.

Cantonese are known to have an adventurous palate, able to eat many different kinds of meats and vegetables. In fact, people in Northern China often say that Cantonese people will eat anything that flies except airplanes, anything that moves on the ground except trains, and anything that moves in the water except boats. This statement is far from the truth, but Cantonese food is easily one of the most diverse and richest cuisines in China. Many vegetables originate from other parts of the world. It doesn't use much spice, bringing out the natural flavor of the vegetables and meats. Tasting clear, light, crisp and fresh, Guangdong cuisine, familiar to Westerners, usually chooses raptors and beasts to produce originative dishes. Its basic cooking techniques include roasting, stir-frying, sauteing, deep-frying, braising, stewing and steaming. Among them steaming and stir-frying are more commonly applied to preserve the natural flavor. Guangdong chefs also pay much attention to the artistic presentation of dishes.

Fujian Cuisine

Consisting of Fuzhou Cuisine, Quanzhou Cuisine and Xiamen Cuisine, Fujian Cuisine is distinguished for its choice seafood, beautiful color and magic taste of sweet, sour, salty and savory. The most distinct features are their "pickled taste".

Jiangsu Cuisine

Jiangsu Cuisine, also called Huaiyang Cuisine, is popular in the lower reach of the Yangtze River. Aquatics as the main ingredients, it stresses the freshness of materials. Its carving techniques are delicate, of which the melon carving technique is especially well known. Cooking techniques consist of stewing, braising, roasting, simmering, etc. The flavor of Huaiyang Cuisine is light, fresh and sweet and with delicate elegance. Jiangsu cuisine is well known for its careful selection of ingredients, its meticulous preparation methodology, and its not-too-spicy, not-too-bland taste. Since the seasons vary in climate considerably in Jiangsu, the cuisine also varies throughout the year. If the flavor is strong, it isn't too heavy; if light, not too bland.

Zhejiang Cuisine

Comprising local cuisines of Hangzhou, Ningbo and Shaoxing, Zhejiang Cuisine, not greasy, wins its reputation for freshness, tenderness, softness, smoothness of its dishes with mellow fragrance. Hangzhou Cuisine is the most famous one among the three.

Hunan cuisine

Hunan cuisine consists of local Cuisines of Xiangjiang Region, Dongting Lake and Xiangxi coteau. It characterizes itself by thick and pungent flavor. Chili, pepper and shallot are usually necessaries in this division.

Anhui Cuisine

Anhui Cuisine chefs focus much more attention on the temperature in cooking and are good at braising and stewing. Often hams will be added to improve taste and sugar candy added to gain.

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Foreign teachers'valuation

2008-11-25T18:37:00.000-08:00

Toure：

The school I'm at has 12 openings 2 we need to fill asap and 10 for Jan09 the pays $1000 US a month and it cost $7 a day to live if you want ot know more just ask.

Tiffany：

Hey guys! I recently heard back from a job I applied as an Esl teacher in China. First I am going through training at a summer camp that starts July 1st and after the camp is over I will start teaching I believe its going to be a rewarding experince and I look forward to seeing how God is going to use me. I want take this opportunity to let you know my need, I have to have 550 dollars to them before April27th I know thats soon, this is actually atleast a hundered dollars less than what I will have to pay,if I wait,so if you are not able to give that soon,you can still give I have to get it to them when it comes in.I know is short notice,I just recently found out myself ,but I believe its worth it,so if you have a heart for kids at all ,or China,if just 22 people gave just 5 dollars,the fee would be covered and if 11 people gave 50,I could be on my way,so definitely write if you have any questions concerning the ministry opportunity,and keep me in your prayers.

So I a know most of you guys are wondering whats China like,and hear are somethings I have found out,everyone is not short,its not that hard to use their toilets,and chinese food in china is definitely healthier tho not nessarily tastier I would say theres more variety ,but its good either place. I work in xuzhou in the jiangsu province,its Ilets traning center,Its geared to help people all ages learn English and pass a test that will help them to be able go abroad and also become more successful. English is definitley valued.

I live in one fo the up and coming cities which is smaller than Shanghi and Beijing,this is not a place is not very diverse just yet but,it defintiely has alot of people. My chinese is improving slowly but surely. I am adjusting to alot,but the adjusting part is definitley happening. I enjoy the friends I have made so far and God has really blessed me with a Great roomate,we've really helped each other out alot and its neat how thats been. Well until next time,please be praying for my job,my chinese,wisdom and that I continue to draw near to and focus on God love you all.

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The valuation of some foreign teachers in china

2008-11-23T19:36:00.001-08:00

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spring festival

2008-11-20T19:51:00.001-08:00

Chinese New Year (Chinese: 春節, 春节, Chūnjíe; 農曆新年, 农历新年, Nónglì Xīnnián; or 過年, 过年, Guònián), also known as the Lunar New Year or the Spring Festival is the most important of the traditional Chinese holidays. It consists of a period of celebrations, starting on New Year's Day, celebrated on the first day of the first month of the Chinese calendar, i.e. the day of the second new moon after the day on which the winter solstice occurs, unless there is an intercalary eleventh or twelfth month in the lead-up to the New Year—in such a case, the New Year falls on the day of the third new moon after the solstice. (The next time this occurs is in 2033.) The Chinese New Year period ends with the Lantern Festival, the fifteenth day of the month.

Origin

The origin of the Lunar New Year Festival can be traced back thousands of years, involving a series of colorful legends and traditions. One of the most famous legends is Nian, an extremely cruel and ferocious beast that the ancients believed would devour people on New Year's Eve. To keep Nian away, red-paper couplets are pasted on doors, torches are lit, and firecrackers are set off throughout the night, because Nian is said to fear the color red, the light of fire, and loud noises. Early the next morning, as feelings of triumph and renewal fill the air at successfully keeping Nian away for another year, the most popular greeting heard is "gong xi fa cai", or "congratulations."

To ensure good luck in the coming year, the Taiwanese always give every dish a special name. This dish is called the "Five Blessings for the New Year" and represents longevity, wealth, peace, wisdom, and righteousness. (Photo by Su-ching Chang) Even though Lunar New Year celebrations generally last for only several days, starting on New Year's Eve, the festival itself is actually about three weeks long. It begins on the twenty-fourth day of the twelfth lunar month, the day, it is believed, when various gods ascend to heaven to pay their respects and report on household affairs to the Jade Emperor, the supreme Taoist deity. According to tradition, households busily honor these gods by burning ritualistic paper money to provide for their traveling expenses. Another ritual is to smear malt sugar on the lips of the Kitchen God, one of the traveling deities, to ensure that he either submits a favorable report to the Jade Emperor or keeps silent.

Celebration

The Chinese New Year starts with the New Moon on the first day of the new year and ends on the full moon 15 days later. The 15th day of the new year is called the Lantern Festival, which is celebrated at night with lantern displays and children carrying lanterns in a parade.

10 Days before the New Year Day - Sweeping of the Grounds

Preparations for the Chinese New Year in old China started well in advance of the New Year's Day. The 20th of the Twelfth Moon was set aside for the annual housecleaning, or the "sweeping of the grounds". Every corner of the house must be swept and cleaned in preparation for the new year. SpringCouplets, written in black ink on large vertical scrolls of red paper, were put on the walls or on the sides of the gate-ways. These couplets, short poems written in Classical Chinese, were expressions of good wishes for the family in the coming year. In addition, symbolic flowers and fruits were used to decorate the house, and colorful new year pictures (NIAN HUA) were placed on the walls (for more descriptions of the symbolism of the flowers and fruits.

New Year Paintings

During the Spring Festival (Chinese New Year), it is traditional to decorate the homes with new year paintings. The most popular paintings are Door Gods pasted on the front doors to keep ghosts and monsters away.

Spring Couplets

Spring couplets are traditionally written with black ink on red paper. They are hung in storefronts in the month before the New Year’s Day, and often stay up for two months. They express best wishes and fortune for the coming year. There is a great variety in the writing of these poetic couplets to fit the situation. A store would generally use couplets hat make references to their line of trade. Couplets that say "Happy New Year" and " Continuing Advancement in Education" are apprpriate for a school.

The New Year's Eve - Reunion Dinner

A reunion dinner is held on New Year's Eve where members of the family, near and far, get together for celebration. The New Year's Eve dinner is very large and traditionally includes chicken. Fish is included, but not eaten up completely (and the remaining stored overnight), as the Chinese phrase "nian nian you yu", or "every year there is fish/leftover", is a homophone for phrases which could mean "be blessed every year" or "have profit every year", since "yu" is also the pronunciation for "profit".

The New Year's Eve celebration was traditionally highlighted with a religious ceremony given in honor of Heaven and Earth, the gods of the household and the family ancestors.

First Day of the New Year

New Year's day is also celebrated within the family. Usually family members gather on the morning of New Year's Day. It is at this gathering that red packets are given to unmarried members of the family. The age of the recipient is not material to receiving the packets. Married couples usually give out two red packets on the first new year after being married. This is because the wife presents one and the husband presents one. In subsequent years they may give one as a couple.

Red packets traditionally consisted of amounts which were considered multiples. Amounts like $2 (two piece of $1), or $20 were acceptable. Similarly "multiples" such as $1.10 and $2.20 were also acceptable. However, this is not strictly adhered to. The gift was originally a token amount but these days it is not uncommon to receive large sums in affluent families. In some families this tradition has evolved into the practice to substituting money-like instruments (stocks, bonds, unit trust) in place of large sums of cash.

Red packets are also given to unmarried visitors but the sums are often smaller than the packets given to family members or close friends.

Second Day of the New Year

The second day of the new year is usually for visiting the family of the wife if a couple is married. A large feast is also typically held on the second day of the new year.

Seventh Day of the New Year

The seventh day traditionally is known as the common man's birthday, the day when everyone grows one year older. It is also the day when tossed fish salad, yusheng, is eaten. People get together to toss the colourful salad and make wishes for continued wealth and prosperity. This is only celebrated amongst the Chinese in Southeast Asia, such as Malaysia and Singapore.

15th Day of the New Year - Lantern Festival

The New Year celebrations ended on the 15th of the First Moon with the Lantern Festival. On the evening of that day, people carried lanterns into the streets to take part in a great parade. Young men would highlight the parade with a dragon dance. The dragon was made of bamboo, silk, and paper, and might stretch for more than hundred feet in length. The bobbing and weaving of the dragon was an impressive sight, and formed a fitting finish to the New Year festival.

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The food in spring festival

2008-11-20T19:42:00.000-08:00

There are many foods in Chinese culture associated with the Chinese New Year. Although preferences vary from region to region, some examples include the following:

Niangao (粘糕) The Chinese word 粘, meaning "sticky", is identical in sound to 年, meaning "year", and the word 糕, meaning "cake" is identical in sound to 高, meaning "high". As such, eating niangao has the symbolism of raising oneself higher in each coming year (年年高升 niánnián gāoshēng). Chinese families who practice Chinese traditional religion also offer niangao to the kitchen god, Zao Jun. It is believed that all the household gods go off to heaven to report on a family during the new year. Serving niangao to the kitchen god is believed to help him provide a sweet report on the family because he will be satisfied and not inclined to deliver criticism — or that his lips are so sticky from the cakes that he is unable to make too much of a report.

Fagao Literally translated as "Prosperity Cake", fagao is made with wheat flour, water, sugar and leavened with either yeast or baking powder. Fagao batter is steamed until it rises and splits open at the top. The sound "fa" means either "to raise/generate" or "be prosperous", hence its well intending secondary meaning.

Jiaozi Dumplings, are small or large mounds of dough that are usually dropped into a liquid mixture (such as soup or stew) and cooked until done, some are stuffed with meat and/or vegetables.

Yusheng, a salad of raw fish and shredded crunchy vegetables (such as carrots, jicama, pickled ginger and pomelo) in a plum sauce dressing. Although commonly served in China throughout the year, it was popularised as a Chinese New Year dish in Singapore and Malaysia, a practise which has since spread to other Chinese communities. Originally served only on the seventh day of the new year, it is now eaten on any day, sometimes as early as two weeks prior to the commencement of the new year.

Mandarin oranges (a symbol of wealth and good fortune). The Cantonese word for these oranges is a homonym for gold.

Red Jujubes symbolizes the gaining of prosperity.

Whole steamed fish (a symbol of long life and good fortune). This can be seen in wall decorations of fish themes. The word 魚 (yú), meaning "fish", shares the same pronunciation with the word 餘, meaning "surplus" (e.g. having money left over from covering expenses).

The common greeting for the new year "niannian you yu" can mean to enjoy a surplus, i.e. financial security, year after year.

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Chinese New Year

2008-11-18T23:40:00.000-08:00

Chinese New Year never starts on the same day. Below is a chart that shows the beginning day of Chinese New Year and the animal sign for that year.

Year:2000
Chinese New Year Begins:February 5
Animal Sign:Dragon

Year:2001
Chinese New Year Begins:January 24
Animal Sign:Snake

Year:2002
Chinese New Year Begins:February 12
Animal Sign:Horse

Year:2003
Chinese New Year Begins:February 1
Animal Sign:Sheep

Year:2004
Chinese New Year Begins:January 22
Animal Sign:Monkey

Year:2005
Chinese New Year Begins:February 9
Animal Sign:Rooster

Year:2006
Chinese New Year Begins:January 29
Animal Sign:Dog

Year:2007
Chinese New Year Begins:February 18
Animal Sign:Pig

Year:2008
Chinese New Year Begins:February 7
Animal Sign:Rat

Year:2009
Chinese New Year Begins:January 26
Animal Sign:Ox

Year:2010
Chinese New Year Begins:February 14
Animal Sign:Tiger

Year:2011
Chinese New Year Begins:February 3
Animal Sign:Rabbit

Year:2012
Chinese New Year Begins:January 23
Animal Sign:Dragon

Year:2013
Chinese New Year Begins:February 10
Animal Sign:Snake

Year:2014
Chinese New Year Begins:January 31
Animal Sign:Horse

Year:2015
Chinese New Year Begins:February 19
Animal Sign:Sheep

Year:2016
Chinese New Year Begins:February 8
Animal Sign:Monkey

Year:2017
Chinese New Year Begins:January 28
Animal Sign:Rooster

Year:2018
Chinese New Year Begins:February 16
Animal Sign:Dog

Year:2019
Chinese New Year Begins:February 5
Animal Sign:Pig

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The Terra Cotta Warriors

2008-11-17T19:24:00.000-08:00

Emperor Qin Shihuang’s Mausoleum and the Terra-cotta Warriors and Horses Museum.

Emperor Qin Shihuang (259-210B.C.) had Ying as his surname and Zheng as his given name. He name to the throne of the Qin at age 13, and took the helm of the state at age of 22. By 221 B.C., he had annexed the six rival principalities of Qi, Chu, Yan, Han, Zhao and Wei, and established the first feudal empire in China’s history.

In the year 221 B.C., when he unified the whole country, Ying Zheng styled himself emperor. He named himself Shihuang Di, the first emperor in the hope that his later generations be the second, the third even the one hundredth and thousandth emperors in proper order to carry on the hereditary system. Since then, the supreme feudal rulers of China’s dynasties had continued to call themselves Huang Di, the emperor.

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Chinese Papercut

2008-11-14T17:49:00.000-08:00

Paper cutting is a traditional art in China which has been making its way along the route of the long history of paper. The kind of art went after the invention of paper in Han Dynasty, once became one of the main form of arts, and was popular to the people of the time; even in royal families ladies were also judged by the ability at papercut.

Most of the papercut artists are women. The themes of their works usually include everything in people's daily life from dumb things to the surroundings. Familiarity makes them understand the real spirit of the art.

The main tool for papercut is scissors. Once they are owned by a master of papercut, they will become so supernatural that the papercuts beyond imagination flow out of his/her hands in the chattering of a common pair of scissors. Another tool for paper cutting is engraving knives which are necessary to enhance a sharpened effect or to make a delicate job.

No doubt that arts come from life and serve life. Papercuts are very popular in the countryside. The bright colors of red, green or light blue papercuts provide a strong foil to set off a merry atmosphere. So they are often found in wedding ceremonies or festivals in China. And people like to decorate their windows and doors using colorful papercuts.

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Guide Picks - Top 10 Lucky Symbols

2008-11-12T18:22:00.000-08:00

Chinese characters usually have one or more meanings and some of them are particularly loved by Chinese people. Here is the top ten list of the lucky ones. Please note Pinyin is also used here, which is the Chinese spelling system for the characters. For example, fu is the pinyin for good luck in Chinese. But fu is only the phonic part of the character and it also represents other Chinese characters that sound the same.
1.) Fu - Blessing, Good Fortune, Good Luck

Fu is one of the most popular Chinese characters used in Chinese New Year. It is often posted upside down on the front door of a house or an apartment. The upside down fu means good luck came since the character for upsite down in Chinese sounds the same as the character for came.

2.) Lu - Prosperity

It used to mean official's salary in feudal China. Fengshui is believed to be the Chinese way to health, wealth and happiness. If you are interested in Fengshui, you may check out the book 'The Feng Shui Kit.'

3.) Shou - Longevity

Shou also means life, age or birthday.

4.) Xi - Happiness

Double happiness is usually posted everywhere on Chinese weddings.

5.) Cai - wealth, money

Chinese often say money can make a ghost turn a millstone. It is to say money really can do a lot of things.

6.) He - harmonious

'People harmony' is an important part of Chinese culture. When you have harmonious relations with others, things will be a lot easier for you.

7.) Ai - love, affection

Don't need to say any more about this one. Just want to point out ai is often used with 'mianzi' together. Aimianzi means 'be concerned about one's face-saving.'

8.) Mei - beautiful, pretty

The United States of American is called Mei Guo in the short form. Guo means country so Meiguo is a good name.

9.) Ji - lucky, auspicious, propitious

Hope all is well.

10.) De - virtue, moral

De means virtue, moral, heart, mind, and kindness, etc. It is also used in the name for Germany, i.e., De Guo.

Chinese Festivals-The Mid-Autumn Day

2008-11-12T00:36:00.001-08:00

August 15th in ChineSe Lunar Calendar is the Mid-Autumn Day. It is one of the most important traditional festivals in China.

On that day people usually go back home to have family reunion. Each family will have the members get together to have a big dinner. The most popular food is moon cakes. They are round and look like the moon.

The moon is the brightest this night. People ate the delicious food while they were enjoying a beautiful full moon in their yard. At this time, some old people would like to tell many past events and tell the children a story about thO rabbit. The children really believed that there was a rabbit on the moon. They wanted to go to the moon and have a look one day.

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Chinese Festivals-Double-Seventh Festival

2008-11-12T00:25:00.000-08:00

The Double Seventh Festival, on the 7th day of the 7th lunar month, is a traditional festival full of romance. It often goes into August in the Gregorian calendar.

This festival is in mid-summer when the weather is warm and the grass and trees reveal their luxurious greens. At night when the sky is dotted with stars, and people can see the Milky Way spanning from the north to the south. On each bank of it is a bright star, which see each other from afar. They are the Cowherd and Weaver Maid, and about them there is a beautiful love story passed down from generation to generation.

Long, long ago, there was an honest and kind-hearted fellow named Niu Lang (Cowhand). His parents died when he was a child. Later he was driven out of his home by his sister-in-law. So he lived by himself herding cattle and farming. One day, a fairy from heaven Zhi Nu (Weaver Maid) fell in love with him and came down secretly to earth and married him. The cowhand farmed in the field and the Weaver Maid wove at home. They lived a happy life and gave birth to a boy and a girl. Unfortunately, the God of Heaven soon found out the fact and ordered the Queen Mother of the Western Heavens to bring the Weaver Maid back.

With the help of celestial cattle, the Cowhand flew to heaven with his son and daughter. At the time when he was about to catch up with his wife, the Queen Mother took off one of her gold hairpins and made a stroke. One billowy river appeared in front of the Cowhand. The Cowhand and Weaver Maid were separated on the two banks forever and could only feel their tears. Their loyalty to love touched magpies, so tens of thousands of magpies came to build a bridge for the Cowhand and Weaver Maid to meet each other. The Queen Mother was eventually moved and allowed them to meet each year on the 7th of the 7th lunar month. Hence their meeting date has been called "Qi Xi" (Double Seventh).

Scholars have shown the Double Seventh Festival originated from the Han Dynasty (206 BC-AD220). Historical documents from the Eastern Jin Dynasty (AD371-420) mention the festival, while records from the Tang Dynasty (618-907) depict the grand evening banquet of Emperor Taizong and his concubines. By the Song (960-1279) and Yuan (1279-1368) dynasties, special articles for the "Qi Xi" were seen being sold on markets in the capital. The bustling markets demonstrated the significance of the festival.

Today some traditional customs are still observed in rural areas of China, but have been weakened or diluted in urban cities. However, the legend of the Cowhand and Weaver Maid has taken root in the hearts of the people. In recent years, in particular, urban youths have celebrated it as Valentine's Day in China. As a result, owners of flower shops, bars and stores are full of joy as they sell more commodities for love.

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Chinese Festivals-Qingming Festival

2008-11-11T21:01:00.000-08:00

The Qingming (Pure Brightness) Festival is one of the 24 seasonal division points in China, falling on April 4-6 each year. After the festival, the temperature will rise up and rainfall increases. It is the high time for spring plowing and sowing. But the Qingming Festival is not only a seasonal point to guide farm work, it is more a festival of commemoration.

The Qingming Festival sees a combination of sadness and happiness.

This is the most important day of sacrifice. Both the Han and minority ethnic groups at this time offer sacrifices to their ancestors and sweep the tombs of the diseased. Also, they will not cook on this day and only cold food is served.

The Hanshi (Cold Food) Festival was usually one day before the Qingming Festival. As our ancestors often extended the day to the Qingming, they were later combined.

On each Qingming Festival, all cemeteries are crowded with people who came to sweep tombs and offer sacrifices. Traffic on the way to the cemeteries becomes extremely jammed. The customs have been greatly simplified today. After slightly sweeping the tombs, people offer food, flowers and favorites of the dead, then burn incense and paper money and bow before the memorial tablet.

In contrast to the sadness of the tomb sweepers, people also enjoy hope of Spring on this day. The Qingming Festival is a time when the sun shines brightly, the trees and grass become green and nature is again lively. Since ancient times, people have followed the custom of Spring outings. At this time tourists are everywhere.

People love to fly kites during the Qingming Festival. Kite flying is actually not limited to the Qingming Festival. Its uniqueness lies in that people fly kites not during the day, but also at night. A string of little lanterns tied onto the kite or the thread look like shining stars, and therefore, are called "god's lanterns."

The Qingming Festival is also a time to plant trees, for the survival rate of saplings is high and trees grow fast later. In the past, the Qingming Festival was called "Arbor Day". But since 1979, "Arbor Day" was settled as March 12 according to the Gregorian calendar.

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Chinese Festivals-Dragon Boat Festival

2008-11-11T20:53:00.000-08:00

The Dragon Boat Festival ,also called the Duanwu Festival ,is celebrated on the fifth day of the fifth month according to the Chinese calendar.People always eat rice dumplings and watch dragon boat races to celebrate it.

The festival is best known for its dragon-boat races,especially in the southern places where there are many rivers and lakes. Ití»s very popular.

The rice dumpling is made of glutinous rice,meat and so on. You can eat different kinds of rice dumplings.They are very delicious.

And Dragon Boat Festival is for Qu Yuan. He is an honest minister who is said to have committed suicide by drowning himself in a river.

Overall, the Dragon Boat Festival is very interesting!

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Chinese Festivals-Lantern Festival

2008-11-11T20:50:00.000-08:00

Lantern Festival is a China’s traditional festival. It is celebrated on the fifteenth day of the first month of the lunar year.

I,antern Festival is one of the biggest holidays in China. Several days before Lantern Festival, people begin to make lanterns. Lanterns are made in the shape of different animals, vegetables, fruits and many, other things. While making lanterns people usually write riddles on lanterns. On the eve of Lantern Festival, all the lanterns are hung up.

On Lantern Festival people go outside to have a look at the lanterns and guess the riddles on the lanterns. Perhaps you call see some wonderful folk performances,Dragon Dance and Yangko. Everything is very interesting and everyone is very happy. Our life is rich and varied.

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Chinese Festivals-Chinese New Year

2008-11-11T20:40:00.000-08:00

The Chinese New Year is now popularly known as the Spring Festival because it starts from the Begining of Spring (the first of the twenty-four terms in coodination with the changes of Nature). Its origin is too old to be traced. Several explanations are hanging around. All agree, however, that the word Nian, which in modern Chinese solely means year, was originally the name of a monster beast that started to prey on people the night before the beginning of a new year.

One legend goes that the beast Nian had a very big mouth that would swallow a great many people with one bite. People were very scared. One day, an old man came to their rescue, offering to subdue Nian. To Nian he said, I hear say that you are very capable, but can you swallow the other beasts of prey on earth instead of people who are by no means of your worthy opponents? So, it did swallow many of the beasts of prey on earth that also harrassed people and their domestic animals from time to time.

After that, the old man disappeared riding the beast Nian. He turned out to be an immortal god. Now that Nian is gone and other beasts of prey are also scared into forests, people begin to enjoy their peaceful life. Before the old man left, he had told people to put up red paper decorations on their windows and doors at each year's end to scare away Nian in case it sneaked back again, because red is the color the beast feared the most.

From then on, the tradition of observing the conquest of Nian is carried on from generation to generation. The term Guo Nian, which may mean Survive the Nian becomes today Celebrate the (New) Year as the word guo in Chinese having both the meaning of pass-over and observe. The custom of putting up red paper and firing fire-crackers to scare away Nian should it have a chance to run loose is still around. However, people today have long forgotten why they are doing all this, except that they feel the color and the sound add to the excitement of the celebration.

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China Reveral

2008-11-10T23:15:00.000-08:00

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Olympic Delicacy

2008-11-10T22:38:00.000-08:00

Lantern Festival-The 15th day of the 1st lunar month

2008-11-10T20:52:00.000-08:00

The 15th day of the 1st lunar month is the Chinese Lantern Festival because the first lunar month is called yuan-month and in the ancient times people called night Xiao. The 15th day is the first night to see a full moon. So the day is also called Yuan Xiao Festival in China.

According to the Chinese tradition, at the very beginning of a new year, when there is a bright full moon hanging in the sky, there should be thousands of colorful lanterns hung out for people to appreciate. At this time, people will try to solve the puzzles on the lanterns and eat yuanxiao (glutinous rice ball) and get all their families united in the joyful atmosphere.

History

Until the Sui Dynasty in the sixth century, Emperor Yangdi invited envoys from other countries to China to see the colorful lighted lanterns and enjoy the gala（节日的，庆祝的）performances.

By the beginning of the Tang Dynasty in the seventh century, the lantern displays would last three days. The emperor also lifted the curfew（宵禁令）, allowing the people to enjoy the festive lanterns day and night. It is not difficult to find Chinese poems which describe this happy scene.

In the Song Dynasty, the festival was celebrated for five days and the activities began to spread to many of the big cities in China. Colorful glass and even jade were used to make lanterns, with figures from folk tales painted on the lanterns.

However, the largest Lantern Festival celebration took place in the early part of the 15th century. The festivities continued for ten days. Emperor Chengzu had the downtown area set aside as a center for displaying the lanterns. Even today, there is a place in Beijing called Dengshikou. In Chinese, Deng means lantern and Shi is market. The area became a market where lanterns were sold during the day. In the evening, the local people would go there to see the beautiful lighted lanterns on display.

Today, the displaying of lanterns is still a big event on the 15th day of the first lunar month throughout China. People enjoy the brightly lit night. Chengdu in Southwest China's Sichuan Province, for example, holds a lantern fair each year in the Cultural Park. During the Lantern Festival, the park is literally an ocean of lanterns! Many new designs attract countless visitors. The most eye-catching lantern is the Dragon Pole. This is a lantern in the shape of a golden dragon, spiraling up a 27-meter -high pole, spewing fireworks from its mouth. It is quite an impressive sight!

Origin

There are many different beliefs about the origin of the Lantern Festival. But one thing for sure is that it had something to do with religious worship.

One legend tells us that it was a time to worship Taiyi, the God of Heaven in ancient times. The belief was that the God of Heaven controlled the destiny of the human world. He had sixteen dragons at his beck and call and he decided when to inflict drought, storms, famine or pestilence（瘟疫）upon human beings. Beginning with Qinshihuang, the first emperor to unite the country, all subsequent emperors ordered splendid ceremonies each year. The emperor would ask Taiyi to bring favorable weather and good health to him and his people. Emperor Wudi of the Han Dynasty directed special attention to this event. In 104 BC, he proclaimed it one of the most important celebrations and the ceremony would last throughout the night.

Another legend associates the Lantern Festival with Taoism. Tianguan is the Taoist god responsible for good fortune. His birthday falls on the 15th day of the first lunar month. It is said that Tianguan likes all types of entertainment. So followers prepare various kinds of activities during which they pray for good fortune.

The third story about the origin of the festival is like this. Buddhism first entered China during the reign of Emperor Mingdi of the Eastern Han Dynasty. That was in the first century. However, it did not exert any great influence among the Chinese people. one day, Emperor Mingdi had a dream about a gold man in his palace. At the very moment when he was about to ask the mysterious figure who he was, the gold man suddenly rose to the sky and disappeared in the west. The next day, Emperor Mingdi sent a scholar to India on a pilgrimage（朝圣）to locate Buddhist scriptures. After journeying thousands of miles, the scholar finally returned with the scriptures. Emperor Mingdi ordered that a temple be built to house a statue of Buddha and serve as a repository for the scriptures. Followers believe that the power of Buddha can dispel darkness. So Emperor Mingdi ordered his subjects to display lighted lanterns during what was to become the Lantern Festival.

Yuanxiao

Besides entertainment and beautiful lanterns, another important part of the Lantern Festival,or Yuanxiao Festival is eating small dumpling balls made of glutinous rice flour. We call these balls Yuanxiao or Tangyuan. Obviously, they get the name from the festival itself. It is said that the custom of eating Yuanxiao originated during the Eastern Jin Dynasty in the fourth centuty, then became popular during the Tang and Song periods.

The fillings inside the dumplings or Yuansiao are either sweet or salty. Sweet fillings are made of sugar, Walnuts（胡桃）, sesame, osmanthus flowers（桂花）, rose petals, sweetened tangerine peel, bean paste, or jujube paste（枣泥）. A single ingredient or any combination can be used as the filling . The salty variety is filled with minced meat, vegetables or a mixture.

The way to make Yuanxiao also varies between northern and southern China. The usual method followed in southern provinces is to shape the dough of rice flour into balls, make a hole, insert the filling, then close the hole and smooth out the dumpling by rolling it between your hands. In North China, sweet or nonmeat stuffing is the usual ingredient. The fillings are pressed into hardened cores, dipped lightly in water and rolled in a flat basket containing dry glutinous rice flour. A layer of the flour sticks to the filling, which is then again dipped in water and rolled a second time in the rice flour. And so it goes, like rolling a snowball, until the dumpling is the desired size.

The custom of eating Yuanxiao dumplings remains. This tradition encourages both old and new stores to promote their Yuanxiao products. They all try their best to improve the taste and quality of the dumplings to attract more customers.

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Introductions of Beautiful cities in China

2008-11-09T21:58:00.000-08:00

Capital Beijing

Beijing thrives today as the political and cultural capital of China as well as a center of international activity and an important socialist base.

Great changes have taken place since the founding of the People's Republic of China in 1949. The city walls were demolished to facilitate transportation and allow for general expansion. By 2001, the population exceeded 12.5 million, and the total municipal area was increased to over 17,800 square kilometers. The city is presently divided into 16 districts: Dongcheng, Xicheng, Chongwen, Xuanwu, Chaoyang, Haidian, Shijingshan, Fengtai, Shunyi, Changping, Mentougou, Tongzhou, Fangshan, Daxing, Huairou and Pinggu. In addition to these urban districts, the municipality is comprised of two counties: Miyun and Yanqing.

Plans for future development retain the symmetrical layout of the old city on its north-south axis, extending out into the suburban districts.

From Dingfuzhuang in the east to Shijingshan in the west and from Qinghe in the north to Nanyuan in the south, the overall plan covers an area of 1,000 square kilometers. A traffic network of four concentric beltways, 28 radial roads, and underground and suburban railways are being further developed to link the city center with outlying areas and surrounding towns.

With Tian'anmen at the center, offices along 38-kilometer-long Chang'an Boulevard will concentrate on state, political and economic affairs. The areas around the Palace Museum (Imperial Palace or Forbidden City) and city gates as well as the lakes -- Zhongnanhai, Beihai and Housanhai -- have been designated landmark districts. And with a look to the future, an increasing number of historical, cultural and revolutionary sites are being renovated and opened to the public.

Modern Shanghai

Shanghai, Hu for short, is situated on the estuary of Yangtze River of China. It is the largest industrial city in China. Covering an area of 5,800 square kilometers (2,239 square miles), Shanghai has a population of 18.7 million, including 2 million floating population.

Originally, Shanghai was a seaside fishing village and in time its gradual development led to it being granted County status on August 19th, 1291 during the Yuan Dynasty (1271-1368). Hence this day became the anniversary of the founding of Shanghai. Today's Shanghai is a multi-cultural metropolis with both modern and traditional Chinese features. Bubbling Shanghai shows off every aspect of her unique glamour.

Shanghai is China's biggest city, largest port and one of the world's vital financial centers. It was also one of the first ports opened to foreign trade.

Rising from a fishing village, Shanghai is one of the four municipalities directly under the central government. Aside from Pudong New District, Shanghai has jurisdiction over 13 districts and six suburban counties. The total area of Shanghai is 6340 square kilometers.

Shanghai sits in a sub-tropical monsoon climate, with moderate temperatures and humidity and adequate sunshine. Rainfall is abundant and the seasons are distinct. The average temperature of Shanghai is 15.4 degrees Celsius, with the high averaging 27.4 degrees in July-August and the low 3-5 degrees below zero in January.

Shanghai is a city with a long history. In the long-term development, it has formed its own unique city scene and varied cultures and arts. Up to now, a lot of cultural relics beginning in the Tang (618-917) and Song (960-1279) Dynasties, many museums and contemporary memorial halls are well preserved. There are a lot of tourist centers in urban districts and suburbs of Shanghai, which form many tourist areas, tourist lines and special-interest tourist items.

Paradise Hangzhou

Hangzhou is one of the important tourism cities in China, famous for its natural beauty and historical and cultural heritages. Hangzhou is the capital of Zhejiang province. It is the political, economic and cultural center of the province as well. It is one of the 15 vice-provincial level cities in China.

Hangzhou is located on the low reaches of Qiantang river in southeast China, with a distance of 180 kilometers to Shanghai. It is one of the key cities in the Yangzi Delta area.

Hangzhou is of subtropical monsoon climate, with distinctive four seasons and mild atmosphere and favorable geographical positions and natural conditions. Hangzhou has 6 districts, 2 counties and 5 county-level municipalities under its jurisdiction. Hangzhou covers a total area of 16596 square kilometers, with a population of 6.08 million, including 683 square kilometers of city proper area and city population of 1.69 million people .

Hangzhou is one of the cradles of Chinese civilization. The human being had lived and prospered in this land 4700 years ago, which is called "Liangzhu Culture". Hangzhou had once been the capitals of Wu and Yue kingdoms of Five Dynasties during the 10th Century and capital of Southern Song Dynasty during the 12-13th Century. It is one of the seven ancient Chinese capitals, famous for its historical and cultural heritages. The city has a history of more than 2200 years since it was established as a county by the First Emperor Qing.

The West Lake is undoubtedly the most renowned feature of Hangzhou, noted for the scenic beauty that blends naturally with many famous historical and cultural sites. In this scenic area, Solitary Hill, the Mausoleum of General Yue Fei, the Six Harmonies Pagoda and the Ling Yin Temple are probably the most frequently visited attractions. The "Ten West Lake Prospects" have been specially selected to give the visitor outstanding views of the lake, mountains and monuments.

Historic Xi’an

Xi'an, the historical city, was called Chang'an in ancient times, and is now the capital of Shaanxi province. Xi'an is situated in the center of Weihe Plain with the towering and verdant Mt. Qinling in the south, with the meandering and rolling Beishan mountain system in the north and eight rivers around it, all of which are at Guang Zhong Plain (the center of passes). Historically, it was famous for being called "a gold city stretching a thousand li" with its fertile soil, mild climate, adequate rainfall and rich products.

Xi'an has a long history. Since the earliest societies, humanity lived and multiplied here. It served as a capital for twelve dynasties, including the Western Zhou, Qin, Western Han, Sui and Tang dynasties, spanning over 1120 years. It became the oriental cultural center of the Silk Road.

Xian is the most important city in northwest China, and so there are a lot of shopping outlets for locals and tourists alike. There are many big shopping centers, department stores and supermarkets in and around Xian city - the biggest and most comprehensive being Kai Yuan Shopping Mall and Century Ginwa Shopping Mall.

The night life in Xian has a unique glamour. Traditional ways include enjoying the night scenery around the Bell Tower, taking part in a Tang Dynasty Dinner Show, strolling on the ancient Big Wild Goose Pagoda Square and watching the music fountain performance. More modern and fashionable ways include singing in the KTV, hanging out in a bar, or dancing in a Disco. All in all, any experience in this ancient city will bring you fun and possibly a little surprise!

Xian is the capital of Shaanxi province, located in the southern part of the Guanzhong Plain. With the Qinling Mountains to the south and the Weihe River to the north, it is in a favorable geographical location surrounded by water and hills. It has a semi-moist monsoon climate and there is a clear distinction between the four seasons. Except the colder winter, any season is relatively suitable for traveling

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Dragon Boat Festival-5th day of the 5th lunar month

2008-11-09T04:54:00.000-08:00

The Dragon Boat Festival, also called the Duanwu Festival, is celebrated on the fifth day of the fifth month according to the Chinese calendar. For thousands of years, the festival has been marked by eating zong zi (glutinous rice（糯米）wrapped to form a pyramid using bamboo or reed leaves) and racing dragon boats.

The festival is best known for its dragon-boat races, especially in the southern provinces where there are many rivers and lakes. This regatta（赛舟会）commemorates the death of Qu Yuan , an honest minister who is said to have committed suicide by drowning himself in a river.

Qu was a minister of the State of Chu situated in present-day Hunan and Hubei provinces, during the Warring States Period (475-221BC)（战国时期）. He was upright, loyal and highly esteemed for his wise counsel that brought peace and prosperity to the state. However, when a dishonest and corrupt prince vilified Qu, he was disgraced and dismissed from office. Realizing that the country was now in the hands of evil and corrupt officials, Qu grabbed a large stone and leapt into the Miluo River on the fifth day of the fifth month. Nearby fishermen rushed over to try and save him but were unable to even recover his body. Thereafter, the state declined and was eventually conquered by the State of Qin.

The people of Chu who mourned the death of Qu threw rice into the river to feed his ghost every year on the fifth day of the fifth month. But one year, the spirit of Qu appeared and told the mourners that a huge reptile（爬行动物）in the river had stolen the rice. The spirit then advised them to wrap the rice in silk and bind it with five different-colored threads before tossing it into the river.

During the Duanwu Festival, a glutinous rice pudding called zong zi is eaten to symbolize the rice offerings to Qu. Ingredients such as beans, lotus seeds（莲子）, chestnuts（栗子）, pork fat and the golden yolk of a salted duck egg are often added to the glutinous rice. The pudding is then wrapped with bamboo leaves, bound with a kind of raffia and boiled in salt water for hours.

The dragon-boat races symbolize the many attempts to rescue and recover Qu's body. A typical dragon boat ranges from 50-100 feet in length, with a beam of about 5.5 feet, accommodating two paddlers seated side by side.

A wooden dragon head is attached at the bow, and a dragon tail at the stern（船尾）. A banner hoisted on a pole is also fastened at the stern and the hull is decorated with red, green and blue scales edged in gold. In the center of the boat is a canopied shrine behind which the drummers, gong（铜锣）beaters and cymbal（铙钹）players are seated to set the pace for the paddlers. There are also men positioned at the bow to set off firecrackers, toss rice into the water and pretend to be looking for Qu. All of the noise and pageantry creates an atmosphere of gaiety and excitement for the participants and spectators alike. The races are held among different clans, villages and organizations, and the winners are awarded medals, banners, jugs of wine and festive meals.

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Chinese Valentine's Day-The seventh day of the seventh lunar month

2008-11-08T00:56:00.000-08:00

Raise your head on August 4 and gaze at the stars, you will find something romantic going on in the sky.

VALENTINE'S Day in China, the seventh day of the seventh lunar month, falls on August 4 this year.

That is, on Monday evening, Niu Lang and Zhi Nu will meet on a bridge of magpies（鹊桥） across the Milky Way（银河）. Chinese grannies will remind children that they would not be able to see any magpies on that evening because all the magpies have left to form a bridge in the heavens with their wings.

Romantic legend

The legend has been handed down for nearly 2 millennia. The story has been recorded as far back as the Jin Dynasty (256-420 AD). Poets composed hundreds of verses on the love story and many types of Chinese opera tell the story.

The Chinese people believe that the star Vega（织女星）, east of the Milky Way, is Zhi Nu and, at the constellation of Aquila（天鹰座）, on the western side of the Milky Way, Niu Lang waits for his wife.

Zhi Nu was said to be the youngest of seven daughters of the Queen of Heaven. With her sisters, she worked hard to weave beautiful clouds in the sky, while Niu Lang was a poor orphan cowherd, driven out of his home by his elder brother and his cruel wife.

Niu Lang lamented over his lonely and poor life with an old cow, his only friend and companion. The magical cow kindly told him of a way to find a beautiful and nice woman as his life companion.

Under the direction of the cow, Niu Lang went to the riverside on an evening, where the seven fairies slipped out of their heavenly palace to bathe.

He took one of the beautiful silk dresses the fairies had left on the bank. When the fairies left the water, the youngest couldn't find her clothes and had to see her sisters fly back to heaven without her.

Then Niu Lang came out with the dress and asked the youngest fairy, Zhi Nu, to stay with him.

Several years passed on Earth, which were only a few days in heaven. Niu Lang and Zhi Nu lived happily together and had two children before the Queen of Heaven discovered Zhi Nu's absence.

She was so annoyed she had Zhi Nu brought back to heaven. Seeing his beloved wife flying in the sky, Niu Lang was terrified. He caught sight of the cowhide hanging on a wall. The magical cow had told him before dying of old age: "Keep the cowhide（牛皮） for emergency use."

Putting the cowhide on, he went after his wife with his two children.

With the help of the cowhide, Niu Lang was able to follow Zhi Nu into heaven. He was about to reach his wife when the Queen showed up and pulled off her hairpin to draw a line between the two. The line became the Silver River in heaven, or the Milky Way.

Zhi Nu went back to the heavenly workshop, going on weaving the clouds. But she was so sad, and missed her husband across the Silver River so much that the clouds she weaved seemed sad. Finally, the Queen showed a little mercy, allowing the couple to meet once every year on the Silver River.

Well-known poem

One of the most famous poems about the legend was written by Qin Guan of in the Song Dynasty (960-1279).

Fairy Of The Magpie Bridge

Among the beautiful clouds,
Over the heavenly river,
Crosses the weaving maiden.

A night of rendezvous,
Across the autumn sky.

Surpasses joy on earth.
Moments of tender love and dream,
So sad to leave the magpie bridge.

Eternal love between us two,
Shall withstand the time apart.
(Translated by Kylie Hsu)

Compared with love stories in Western legends, the story of Niu Lang and Zhi Nu seems not as intense or passionate. Love doesn't kill or break up the barrier between them. They just wait patiently on the riverbank, believing that their love can withstand their time apart.

It is faith and emotional liaison instead of physical attraction and desire that is emphasized in the story as well as in many other Chinese folktales（民间故事） about love.

In only a few Chinese folk love stories can be found a description of the physical appearances of the hero and heroine.

In the "Butterfly Lovers", the heroine, dressed as a boy to attend school, falls in love with a classmate. After they have lived together as classmates for years, the hero did not have the slightest clue that his best friend is actually a girl!

Chinese ceremonies

The seventh day of the seventh lunar month is the only Chinese festival devoted to love in the Lunar calendar.

Unlike St. Valentine's Day in Western countries there is not so much emphasis on giving chocolates, flowers and kisses. Instead, Chinese girls prepare fruits, melons and incense（熏香） as offerings to Zhi Nu, the weaving maiden, praying to acquire high skills in needlecraft（裁缝）, as well as hoping to find satisfactory husbands.

In the evening, people sit outdoors to observe the stars. Chinese grannies would say that, if you stand under a grapevine, you can probably overhear what Zhi Nu and Niu Lang are talking about.

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Perking Duck

2008-11-06T19:27:00.000-08:00

Beijing Roast Duck

Beijing Roast duck is thought to be one of the most delicious dishes all over the world; most visitors coming to Beijing will never forget to have a try. Eating Peking duck is seen to be one of the two things you are absolutely supposed to do while in Beijing.

How roast duck was made?

You might want to know more about how Peking Roasted Duck is made. The ducks are raised for the sole purpose of making the food. Force-fed, they are kept in cages which restrain them from moving about, so as to fatten them up and make the meat comparably tender.

Special farms supply plump Beijing ducks weighing an average of 2.5 kilograms each. The two famous Beijing condiment shops, Liubiju and Tianyuan, supply the dark tangy bean sauce spread on the pancakes. The fragrant sesame oil and refined sugar are also specially selected. Finally, only the wood of fruit trees such as date, peach and pear are used in the roasting process to give the meat its unique fragrance.

Select a duck with whole skin. First the ducks are rubbed with spices, salt and sugar, and then kept hung in the air for some time. Cuts open the belly and draw, and then insert a 2 inch long piece of wood to support the chest bone and to stretch the skin. Hook the duck by the neck, spread diluted maltose over it. Hang the duck in an airy place to dry.

The stuffed duck is hung in the roaster and kettles of hot water are placed in front to fill out the duck. Proper timing and temperature are important and the duck is turned often enough to roast them completely and evenly. (Try 350°F turn every 15 minutes, total roasting time about 40 minutes). Roast until golden brown with rich grease perspiring outside and have a nice odor.

What is Beijing Duck Recipe?

Normally there are many dishes served with the duck, including a dish of fine-cut shallot bars, a dish of cucumber bars and finally a dish of paste-like soy of fermented wheat flour. It is not necessary to order extra soup, for the duck-bone soup is always included in you order. It will be served as the rear dish for the dinner.

History of Roast Duck

The history of the roast duck can be traced back to as early as the Yuan Dynasty (1206-1368) when it was listed among the imperial dishes in the Complete Recipes for Dishes and Beverages, written in 1330 by Hu Sihui, an inspector of the imperial kitchen. Details regarding the cooking process were also described in this early cookbook.

In the early 15th century, when the Ming Dynasty capital was shifted from Nanjing to Beijing, roast duck remained one of the famous dishes on imperial court menus. According to the local history, the earliest roast duck restaurant in Beijing was the old Bianyifang Restaurant, which opened during the Jiajing reign (1522-1566). Distinct from the method in which the duck is hung from a hook in the ceiling of the oven and roasted over and roasted over burning wood, the Old Bianyifang Restaurant roasted its ducks with radiant heat. The walls of the oven were first heated with sorghum stalks whereupon the duck was placed inside and cooked by the heat given off by the walls. A duck roasted in this manner is crisp to the touch and golden brown in appearance; its flesh is both tender and tasty.

During the Qianlong period (1736-1796), roast duck was a favorite delicacy of the upper classes. According to Recipes from the Suiyuan Garden, the famous cookbook written by the poet and gourmet Yuan Mei, "Roast duck is prepared by revolving a young duckling on a spit in an oven. The chefs of Inspector Feng's family excel in preparing this dish." Other scholars, after dining on roast duck, were inspired to poetry. In one collection of old Beijing rhymes (Duan Zhuzhici) one of the poems reads: "Fill your plates with roast duck and suckling pig." Another contemporary annotation reads: "When an official gives a banquet he will choose dishes to please each of his guests. For example, Bianyifang's roast duck…"

To satisfy the growing demand for roast duck, and with an eye on the profits to be made from a good name, many restaurants opened from a good name, many restaurants opened under the Bianyifang name. In fact, in 1926, nine roast duck restaurants in Beijing carried this name. In the late 1960s the Bianyifang Restaurant's name was changed to the Chongwenmen Roast Duck Restaurant, but in 1979 it resumed its former title. Its menu includes more than 20 traditional duck dishes, including the Four Delicacies: wing and web, liver, heart and pancreas.

Which restaurant is famous one?

The two famous restaurants that serve Beijing Roast Duck are Bianyifang Roast Duck Restaurant and Quanjude Roast Duck Restaurant, both of which have a history of over one hundred years. They represent two different schools of roasting duck. Bianyifang, founded in 1855, makes use of a close oven and straw as the fuel, which won't make flames go directly onto the duck. Before being put into the oven, a duck is filled with specially-made soup to make it possible to roast the duck outside and boil it inside at the same time.

Quanjude,a better known one, founded in 1864, uses an oven without a door. After a kind of dressing being spread all over a duck, it will be hooked up in the oven over the flame coming directly from the burning of the fruit-tree wood and it will be done in forty minutes. When roasted and dried, the duck will look brilliantly dark red, shining with oil and with crisp skin and tender meat. Because of its appearance, few people could resist the temptation of it.

The first restaurant to bear the name Quanjude opened in 1864 during the reign of the Qing Emperor Tongzhi. Due to its high standards, the restaurant's fame spread rapidly and for many years the supply of roast ducks could hardly satisfy the demand. For this reason, the restaurant was rebuilt and expanded in 1948. In 1954 a branch (known as Hongbinlou) was opened in West Chang' an Boulevard and another in Wangfujing Street in 1959. These additions, however, still did not solve the problem, and with the opening of the Quanjude at hepingmen in 1979, it was no longer necessary to make a reservation a week in advance to taste Beijing's most famous culinary delight.

How to eat it?

First, the chef will show you the whole duck. Then, he will slice it into about one hundred and twenty pieces with both skin and meat for each. Usually the duck is served together with special pancakes, hollowed sesame bun, green onions and sweet sauce.

There is a proper way to eat it. First, pick up a slice of duck with the help of a pair of chopsticks and dip it into the soy paste. Next, lay it on the top of a thin cake and add some bars of cucumber and shallot. Finally, wrap the stuff into a bundle with the sheet cake (a thin pancake). The real secret of Peking duck's flavor lies in your carefully nibbling away at the mixture. You will find all the different ingredients very compatible. People say: "it's a pity to leave Beijing without trying the roast duck The taste of the roast duck is in the eating.

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Chinese History

2008-11-05T23:29:00.000-08:00

Ancient

Ancient China was one of the earliest centers of human civilization. Chinese civilization was also one of the few to invent writing independently, the others being Mesopotamia, the Indus Valley Civilization, the Mayan civilization, the Minoan Civilization of ancient Greece, and Ancient Egypt.

Prehistory

Archaeological evidence suggests that the earliest humans in China date from 2.24 million to 250,000 years ago.

A cave in Zhoukoudian (near present-day Beijing) has fossils dated at somewhere between 300,000 to 550,000 years.

The earliest evidence of a fully modern human in China comes from Liujiang County, Guangxi, where a cranium has been found and dated to approximately 67,000 years ago. Although much controversy persists over the dating of the Liujiang remains, a partial skeleton from Minatogawa in Okinawa, Japan has been dated to 18,250 to 16,600 years ago, so modern humans must have reached China before that time.

Dynastic rule

Chinese tradition names the first dynasty Xia, but it was considered mythical until scientific excavations found early bronze-age sites at Erlitou in Henan Province. Archaeologists have since uncovered urban sites, bronze implements, and tombs in locations cited as Xia's in ancient historical texts, but it is impossible to verify that these remains are of the Xia without written records from the period.

Some of the thousands of life-size Terracotta Warriors of the Qin Dynasty, cast. 210 BC.The second dynasty, the loosely feudal Shang, settled along the Yellow River in eastern China from the 18th to the 12th century BC. They were invaded from the west by the Zhou, who ruled from the 12th to the 5th century BC until their centralized authority was slowly eroded by neighboring warlords. Many strong, independent states continually waged war with each other in the Spring and Autumn period, only occasionally deferring to the Zhou king.

The first unified Chinese state was established by the Qin Dynasty in 221 BC, when the office of the Emperor was set up and the Chinese language was forcibly standardized. This state did not last long, as its legalist policies soon led to widespread rebellion.

The subsequent Han Dynasty ruled China between 206 BC and 220 AD, and created a lasting Han cultural identity among its populace that would last to the present day. The Han Dynasty expanded the empire's territory considerably with military campaigns reaching Korea, Vietnam, Mongolia and Central Asia, and also helped establish the Silk Road in Central Asia.

After Han's collapse, another period of disunion followed, including the highly chivalric period of the Three Kingdoms. Independent Chinese states of this period also opened diplomatic relations with Japan, introducing the Chinese writing system there. In 580 AD, China was reunited under the Sui. However, the Sui Dynasty was short-lived after a failure in the Goguryeo-Sui Wars (598–614) weakened it.

A 10th-11th century Longquan stoneware vase from Zhejiang province, during the Song Dynasty.Under the succeeding Tang and Song dynasties, Chinese technology and culture reached its zenith. The Song dynasty was the first government in world history to issue paper money and the first Chinese polity to establish a permanent standing navy. Between the 10th and 11th centuries, the population of China doubled in size. This growth came about through expanded rice cultivation in central and southern China, and the production of abundant food surpluses. Within its borders, the Northern Song Dynasty had a population of some 100 million people. The Song Dynasty was a culturally rich period in China for the arts, philosophy, and social life. Landscape art and portrait paintings were brought to new levels of maturity and complexity after the Tang Dynasty, and social elites gathered to view art, share their own, and make trades of precious artworks. Philosophers such as Cheng Yi and Chu Hsi reinvigorated Confucianism with new commentary, infused Buddhist ideals, and emphasized a new organization of classic texts that brought about the core doctrine of Neo-Confucianism.

In 1271, the Mongol leader and the fifth Khagan of the Mongol Empire Kublai Khan established the Yuan Dynasty, with the last remnant of the Song Dynasty falling to the Yuan in 1279. A peasant named Zhu Yuanzhang overthrew the Mongols in 1368 and founded the Ming Dynasty. Ming Dynasty thinkers such as Wang Yangming would further critique and expand Neo-Confucianism with ideas of individualism and innate morality that would have tremendous impact on later Japanese thought. Chosun Korea also became a nominal vassal state of Ming China and adopted much of its Neo-Confucian bureaucratic structure. China's capital was moved from Nanjing to Beijing during the early Ming Dynasty. The Ming fell to the Manchus in 1644, who then established the Qing Dynasty. An estimated 25 million people died during the Manchu conquest of the Ming Dynasty (1616–1644).

The Qing Dynasty, which lasted until 1912, was the last dynasty in China. In the 19th century the Qing Dynasty adopted a defensive posture towards European imperialism, even though it engaged in imperialistic expansion into Central Asia itself. At this time China awoke to the significance of the rest of the world, in particular the West. As China opened up to foreign trade and missionary activity, opium produced by British India was forced onto Qing China. Two Opium Wars with Britain weakened the Emperor's control.

One result was the Taiping Civil War, which lasted from 1851 to 1862. It was led by Hong Xiuquan, who was partly influenced by a misinterpretation of Christianity. Hong believed himself to be the son of God and the younger brother of Jesus. Although the Qing forces were eventually victorious, the civil war was one of the bloodiest in human history, costing at least twenty million lives (more than the total number of fatalities in the First World War), with some estimates of up to two hundred million. Other costly rebellions followed the Taiping Rebellion, such as the Punti-Hakka Clan Wars (1855–1867), Nien Rebellion (1851–1868), Muslim Rebellion (1862–1877), Panthay Rebellion (1856–1873) and the Miao Rebellion (1854–1873). These rebellions resulted in an estimated loss of several million lives each and led to disastrous results for the economy and the countryside. The flow of British opium hastened the empire's decline.

A corner tower of the Forbidden City at night; the palace served as the residence for the imperial family since the reign of the Yongle Emperor of the Ming Dynasty in the 15th century, up until the fall of the Qing Dynasty in 1912.While China was wracked by continuous war, Meiji Japan succeeded in rapidly modernizing its military and set its sights on Korea and Manchuria. Influenced by Japan, Korea declared independence from Qing China's suzerainty in 1894, leading to the First Sino-Japanese War, which resulted in the Qing Dynasty's cession of both Korea and Taiwan to Japan. Following these series of defeats, a reform plan for the empire to become a modern Meiji-style constitutional monarchy was drafted by the Emperor Guangxu in 1898, but was opposed and stopped by the Empress Dowager Cixi, who placed Emperor Guangxu under house arrest in a coup d'état. Further destruction followed the ill-fated 1900 Boxer Rebellion against westerners in Beijing. By the early 20th century, mass civil disorder had begun, and calls for reform and revolution were heard across the country. The 38-year-old Emperor Guangxu died under house arrest on 14 November 1908, suspiciously just a day before Cixi's own death. With the throne empty, he was succeeded by Cixi's handpicked heir, his two year old nephew Puyi, who became the Xuantong Emperor, the last Chinese emperor. Guangxu's consort, who became the Empress Dowager Longyu, signed the abdication decree as regent in 1912, ending two thousand years of imperial rule in China. She died, childless, in 1913.

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About teaching in china

2008-11-03T22:24:00.000-08:00

As long as you are a Native English Speaker, you have the opportunity to get a good job of teaching English in China. At present, international teachers from native English-speaking countries are still far from enough to meet domestic demand for all types of schools. The largest demand for international teachers is the universities and various types of language training institute. And also the demand of primary and secondary schools even kindergartens is constantly growing.

Some schools are often worried about not attracting a eligible English speaker, because of the new semester has begun. Therefore they have to continue the recruitment after the semester starts, which resulted in that schools need foreign teachers all year around.

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