Chi
na has a rich and complex history that is often overlooked by those who are unfamiliar with the country. From ancient traditions to modern advancements, China has many fascinating aspects to explore. As someone from the outside looking in, I have come across many "cold" or lesser-known facts about China that have piqued my interest. Here are some of the most intriguing:
1. The world's largest man-made cave complex The Longyou Caves, located in the Zhejiang province, are an impressive feat of engineering. Archaeologists estimate that they were created over a period of 2,000 years, starting from the Qin Dynasty (221-206 BC). The caves cover an area of 30,000 square meters and consist of more than 240 chambers. What's even more remarkable is that the caves were created by hand using only primitive tools, such as chisels and hammers. To this day, no one knows how or why they were built.
2. The world's oldest canal The Grand Canal, which stretches over 1,700 kilometers from Beijing to Hangzhou, is not only the longest canal in the world, but also the oldest. Construction of the canal began in the 5th century BC and continued for several centuries. It was used for transportation, irrigation, and flood control, and played a crucial role in China's economic and cultural development. Today, it is still in use and has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
3. China's "golden week" holiday China has a unique holiday system that includes week-long breaks, known as "golden weeks". These holidays were introduced in 1999 and include the Chinese New Year holiday in January/February, the Labor Day holiday in May, and the National Day holiday in October. During these weeks, many Chinese people travel domestically and internationally, causing traffic congestion and overcrowding at tourist sites.
4. The world's largest radio telescope China's Five-hundred-meter Aperture Spherical Telescope (FAST) is the largest radio telescope in the world. Located in Guizhou province, it measures 500 meters in diameter and was completed in 201
6. Its primary purpose is to search for extraterrestrial life and study the universe's origins and evolution. In addition to its scientific achievements, FAST is also a testament to China's rapid technological advancement in recent years.
5. The world's largest glass bridge China is home to the world's largest glass bridge, located in Zhangjiajie National Forest Park in Hunan province. The bridge spans 430 meters and hangs 300 meters above the valley floor. It was opened to the public in 2016 and has since become a popular attraction for thrill-seekers and tourists alike. In conclusion, China is a country full of fascinating history, impressive accomplishments, and unique customs. While these "cold" facts may not be well-known by everyone, they provide a glimpse into the many wonders of this diverse and complex nation.