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na is a fascinating country with a rich culture and a long history. Although many people are familiar with certain aspects of Chinese culture, such as its food or architecture, there are many lesser-known aspects that might surprise you. In this article, we will explore some of the cool and obscure facts about China that are sure to pique your interest.
1. The Chinese Language Has No Alphabet
Unlike most languages, Chinese does not have an alphabet. Instead, Chinese writing is based on characters, each depicting a unique concept or object. There are over 50,000 characters in the Chinese language, but most people only need to know about 3,000 to read a newspaper.
2. Chopsticks Were Invented in China
Most people assume that chopsticks are used only in Chinese cuisine, but the truth is that chopsticks were invented in China over 5,000 years ago. Early chopsticks were made from bamboo and were used primarily for cooking, but they eventually evolved into the slender utensils we know today.
3. China Has the Largest Population in the World
As of 2021, China has a population of over 1.4 billion people, making it the largest country in the world by population. With such a massive population, it's no wonder that China is known for its crowded cities and bustling streets.
4. The World's Longest Wall Is in China
The Great Wall of China is one of the most iconic landmarks in the world, but did you know that it is also the longest wall in the world? Stretching over 13,000 miles, the Great Wall was built over 2,000 years ago to protect against invading armies.
5. China Invented Paper
Paper is such a ubiquitous item that most people don't give it a second thought, but did you know that it was invented in China over 2,000 years ago? The first paper was made from mulberry bark, silk, and other plant fibers.
6. Tea Was Invented in China
Tea is a staple beverage in many cultures around the world, but it was first invented in China over 5,000 years ago. Legend has it that tea was discovered by accident when some tea leaves fell into a pot of boiling water.
7. China Has the World's Highest Bridge
The Beipanjiang Bridge in China is the highest bridge in the world, with a height of 1,854 feet. It is an engineering marvel that spans a deep gorge and is considered one of the most breathtaking bridges in the world.
8. China Was the First Country to Print Books
Printing is an essential aspect of modern life, but it was first invented in China over 1,000 years ago. The first printed book was a copy of the Diamond Sutra, an ancient Buddhist text.
In conclusion, China is a fascinating country with a rich history and culture that continues to influence the world today. From its unique writing system to its iconic landmarks, China has much to offer those willing to explore its secrets. Hopefully, this article has provided some insight into the cool and obscure facts about China that are sure to surprise and interest you.