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The Temple of Heaven

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The Temple of Heaven

( 2008-07-08 )

In architecture the entire design is symbolic. The southern part of the Inner Temple is square, while the northern part is semi-circular, a pattern representing the ancient belief that Heaven is round and Earth square. The northern wall was built higher than the southern wall, illustrating the
notion of Heaven surpassing Earth. Compared to the imposing complexity and intricacy of royal palaces, the altar area here is simple, setting off the vastness of the sky, and the grandeur of Heaven.

In ancient China, odd numbers were regarded as heavenly or as related to the sun. Since nine was considered the most powerful of all numbers, the altar, a three-tiered terrace, was constructed with rings of stone slabs in multiples of nine, and the steps and balustrades are also in multiples of
nine. At the center of the top terrace lies a round stone known as the Center-of-Heaven Stone (Tianxinshi), which has an amplifying impact for speeches made from it.

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Chinese Pinyin - Liubo

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Liubo

( 2008-07-07 )

Liubo is one of the most mysterious games. It is an ancient Chinese board-game whose rules are forgotten. However, several studies have been done, backed by several archaeological findings.

Puddingstone footed Liubo Board (41.5x41.5 cm) inlaid with bone with four ivory Liubo pieces. Han dynasty, 206 BC - AD 220.

The name Liubo comes from Chinese (liu = six, bo = sticks). This game was played in ancient China, at least since the Warring States era (4th c. BC) and maybe much earlier (7th c. BC) as it is evoked in Confucius' Analects (Book XVII, 22): "It is difficult for a man who always has a full stomach
to put his mind to some use. Are there not players of liubo and weiqi Even playing these games is better than being idle."

Liubo players. Eastern Han dynasty, 1st-2nd century AD The figures in this group are gambling. They are playing Liubo, a game thought to be popular among both mortals and immortals.The board is marked with divination symbols, and the game pieces show the animals of the four directions: the White
Tiger (West), the Green Dragon (East), the Vermilion Bird (South) and the Tortoise, with a snake coiled around its body, known as the Dark Warrior (North).The models are made of earthenware, covered with a green lead glaze. Lead glazes were used only for burial goods, because they are poisonous.
Height: 25.6 cm

Apparently very popular during the Han dynasties (207 BC - 220 AD) when the best players were well respected and formed a corporation, it later vanished. The very last reference dates from the Song time (before 1162) where it was quoted as an “old game”. Archaeological findings are not scarce
and there are quite a few literary evocations, nevertheless, nobody knows what the rules of the game were.

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* Dancing Beijing -- Beijing 2008 Olympic Emblem

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* Beijing Paralympics Emblem ( 07-10 )
* Environmental Emblem of Beijing 2008 ( 07-10 )
* Emblem of the Beijing Olympic Torch Relay ( 07-10 )
* Emblem of the Beijing 2008 OYC ( 07-10 )
* Emblem of the Beijing Olympic Cultural Festival ( 07-10 )

News More

* Museums to exhibit 1,000 national treasures
* Creating new rituals, Beijing style
* Marine mural unveiled in capital
* Illustrated Olympic giant panda story comes out
* Ten recommended Beijing shopping streets

Meet in Beijing More

* Dance Along the River during the Qingming Festival
* Concert by Macao Chinese Orchestra
* Kataklo Athletic Dance Theatre
* UK Contemporary Exhibition
* The Russia Star Ballet

Olympic on Beijing's Axis

　 Online Tour

============================================================================================================================================================================================================================================================================================================

| About us | E-mail | Contact |

Constructed by .cn
Copyright 2003 Ministry of Culture, P.R.China. All rights reserved

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HSK Exam - Qiu Shaoyun Memorial Hall

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Qiu Shaoyun Memorial Hall

The Qiu Shaoyun Memorial Hall, located at Tongliang County of Sichuan Province and opened to the public in October 1962, is a museum of Chinese revolutionary figures. It was established in memory of Martyr Qiu Shaoyun, a volunteer army man winning the titles of Special Meritorious Fighter and
Class One Hero in the War to Resist U.S. Aggression and Aid Korea.

The monument to Martyr Qiu Shaoyun stands in front of the memorial. It is 10 meters tall with the characters of Monument to Martyr Qiu Shanyun engraved in the front of the monument and the martyr's biography on the back. On the top of the monument stands a 5-meter-tall sculpture of Qiu Shaoyun and
in the front of the pedestal is a relief pattern composed of a golden star medal, an olive branch and a submachine gun.

The exhibition hall of Qiu Shaoyun's deeds takes up an area of 1,700 square meters, consisting of the vestibule, a showroom of paintings and calligraphies, and four exhibition rooms of the martyr's heroic deeds. On display are more than 190 historical relics showing the brilliant life of Martyr
Qiu Shaoyun, such as the things left behind by the martyr, pictures, the inscriptions of leaders of the central authorities, the certificate and medal bestowed by Chairman Kim-il Sung of the Korean Government as well as the gifts presented to the martyr's dependents.

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HSK - Macao Museum of Art

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Macao Museum of Art

http://www.artmuseum.gov.mo/main.asp language=1

Located in the cultural center of New Port District in Macao, the Macao Museum of Art was opened to the public in March 19, 1999. It is the only art museum in Macao, covering 10,192 square meters. The Museum houses an abundant collection of paintings, seals, western paintings, pottery and bronze.

This five-storeyed building contains five separate exhibition galleries of differing sizes, namely the Hall of Chinese Calligraphy and Paintings, the Hall of Chinese Potteries, two exhibition halls on special topics, and the Exhibition Hall of History, which displays western paintings for sales.
Besides, the Museum has an auditorium that can hold more than 100 people.

It is one of the finest museums in Macao displaying fine works of art and significant cultural artifacts. The displays in the museum are to show visitors the art that has developed under the influence of both the East and the West cultures.

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Chinese language - Xikou Museum at Fenghua

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Xikou Museum at Fenghua

The Xikou Museum at Fenghua, located at Xikou Town of Fenghua City in Zhejiang Province, founded and opened to the public in 1988, is a local museum of China, mainly introducing the folk customs and human relationships of Xikou and the area of Ningbo.

The buildings of the Museum used to be theWushanBuddhistTemple, an ancient architecture. On display in the three exhibition halls are 190 items of exhibits.

The First Exhibition Hall introduces the history and sceneries of Xikou and the special local products of Fenghua. On display are the stone artifacts of the Neolithic Age unearthed within the boundary of Fenghua, the bronze and ceramics from the Tang and Song dynasties (618-1279) as well as the
objects introducing the splendid views of Xikou and the special local products of Fenghua, 47 objects in total.

The Second Exhibition Hall, introducing the folk customs and human relationships of Xikou and the area ofNingbo, is the main part of the Museum, displaying mainly the festival and matrimony customs with 49 items of objects. The four major items -- the boat drum, the bridal sedan chair, the 1,000
man-day bed, and the gong and drum -- are exquisitely carved and inlaid, especially the boat drum, a rare collection of large traditional handicraft article carved with pavilion over pavilion, figures, flowers and birds.

The Third Exhibition Hall introduces the handicraft articles of Henghua City, such as articles made of bamboo, carvings made with bamboo or tree roots, door curtain made with wooden beads, inlaid work of mahogany, lacquer painting, small animal samples, bamboo woven articles, embroidery and folded
fans.

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Learning Mandarin - part 3

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part 3

Ox-shaped Zun

A liquor container from the middle Western Zhou Dynasty (approximately 1100BC -771BC). It is 24cm high and 38cm long. Unearthed in 1962 in Hejiazhuang, Qishan County, Shaanxi Province, it is now in the collection of Shaanxi History Museum.

The ox is vigorous with strong legs. It is stretching out its head to bellow. Its tongue turns upward and serves as the outlet. Its tail curves into a ring. There is a square cover on its back with a tiger-shaped handle. The decorations include pattern of curves and whirlpool lines. This ox-shaped
zun is simply decorated and vividly designed. It may be rated as a fine work of art.

Yuan Foal Zun

A liquor container from the middle Western Zhou Dynasty (approximately 1100BC -771BC). It is 34cm long and 32.4cm high. Unearthed in 1953 in Li Village, Mei County, Shaanxi Province, it is now in the collection of Xi'an Museum of China.

The foal stands firm, raising its head, with alert ears and a drooping tail. Its body is decorated with whirlpool pattern. The decoration is simple and the style is lively. It is of high practical and artistic quality. Its inscription is of important value in verifying foal-driving ceremony and
document records.

Three-year-old Xing Pot

A liquor container from the middle Western Zhou Dynasty (approximately 1100BC -771BC). It is 65.4cm high with a diameter of 19.7cm. Unearthed in December 1976 in Zhuangbai Village, Shaanxi Province, it is now in the collection of Zhouyuan Museum, Shaanxi Province.

It has a small neck and swelling body and is decorated with patterns of netted fish scale. Two hoops are shaped like beast heads. Its cover is decorated with bird motifs. The whole pot features well-balanced shape with a large body and a novel design. Its moderate decoration well matches its
shape. Its inscription on the neck records Emperor Zhou's award for Xing.

Yuan Square Yi

A liquor container from the middle Western Zhou Dynasty (approximately 1100BC -771BC). It is 22.8cm high and with a mouth of 14.4cm long. Unearthed in March 1955 in Li Village, Mei County, Shaanxi Province, it is now in the collection of the National Museum of Chinese History.

Its cover and handle are shaped like a roof with ridges. Its two ears are shaped like a curved elephant nose. Its body and cover are decorated with an annular pattern, its two sides with kui-dragon pattern, and its edge and foot with a curve line pattern. The whole body was carved on a
cloud-and-thunder background. The interior inscription with 108 characters records the award and post granted by Emperor Zhou for Yuan. Small and exquisite, this piece is unique in design.

Feng Zun

A liquor container from the middle Western Zhou Dynasty (approximately 1100BC -771BC). It is 16.8cm high with a diameter of 16.8cm. Unearthed in December 1976 in Zhuangbai Village, Fufeng County, Shaanxi Province, it is now in the collection of Zhouyuan Museum, Shaanxi Province.

It has a large mouth, round body and encircled foot. Its body is decorated with a big phoenix pattern and the neck with little bird motifs. Its front is ornamented with beast head pattern and its upper part with a bird motif. Its interior inscription mainly records the order from Emperor Zhou at
Chengzhou to Feng to meet Daju. Feng received awards from Ju and had this bronze piece made to commemorate the event. This vessel is beautifully decorated and served as official vessel in the time of King Mu.

Weibo Xing Gui

A food container from the middle Western Zhou Dynasty (approximately 1100BC -771BC). It is 13.9cm high with a diameter of 27.3cm. Unearthed in 1977 in Zhuangbai Village, Fufeng County, Shaanxi Province, it is now in the collection of Zhouyuan Museum, Shaanxi Province.

It has a shallow plate and a straight mouth. Its rim is decorated with a multi-circular pattern. Its stand is hollow and ornamented with an annular pattern. This article is exquisite and of high craftsmanship.

Xing Bell

A musical instrument from the middle Western Zhou Dynasty (approximately 1100BC -771BC) used during battles, sacrificial offerings and banquets. It is 64.6cm high with a milling distance of 27.5cm. Unearthed in 1976 in Zhuangbai Village, Fufeng County, Shaanxi Province, it is now in the collection
of Zhouyuan Museum, Shaanxi Province.

The handle is hollow and connected with the cavity. The bell is decorated with a pair of birds with long beaks, large crests and falling tails. Other decorations include a cloud-and-moon pattern. The inscription records the event that Xing, the bell maker, offered sacrifices to the ancestors and
prayed for longevity and peace.

Xing Gui

A container for broomcorn, millet, rice, sorghum, etc., from the middle Western Zhou Dynasty (approximately 1100BC -771BC). It is 35.8cm high with a diameter of 22.8cm. Unearthed in 1976 in Zhuangbai Village, Fufeng County, Shaanxi Province, it is now in the collection of Zhouyuan Museum, Shaanxi
Province.

The container has a swelling body, an arched cover and a square stand. The handles are animal-shaped with double horns, long tongues and falling earrings. The container and stand are decorated with a ridge pattern. Its edge and neck are decorated with a multi-circular pattern and the foot with
tile pattern. Its inscription records the owner Xing's post appointed by Emperor Zhou.

It was a popular practice in the Western Zhou Dynasty to combine the ding and kui in the use of sacrificial vessel, symbolizing the status and position of the ancient noble. For example, 9 dings and 8 kuis were designated for the emperor, 7 dings and 6 kuis for the princes, 5 dings and 4 kuis for
the ministers and 3 dings and 2 kuis for officials. All together 8 pieces of the same kind were unearthed. They are of great value in studying the protocol system of the Western Zhou Dynasty.

Li Guarded by a Slave Punished by Yue Penalty

A cooking vessel from the middle Western Zhou Dynasty (approximately 1100BC -771BC). It is 17.7cm high. Unearthed in 1972 in Zhuangbai Village, Fufeng County, Shaanxi Province, it is now in the collection of Zhouyuan Museum, Shaanxi Province.

It is rectangular with handles. At each corner is found a dragon design in relief. The square container is supported by four animal-shaped legs. The stove can be opened in the front. The door is guarded by a slave whose feet were cut off by a kind of penalty called Yue. The area around the window
is decorated with a slanting cloud pattern. Its back is ornamented with a hollowed-out curve pattern. Monsters are cast on each corner. Charcoal can be burned inside the stove to heat the food in the container. Square Li is very rare. The slave punished by Yue penalty serves as the material object
for the study of the criminal law of the Western Zhou Dynasty.

Wei He

It is a water container from the middle Western Zhou Dynasty (approximately 1100BC -771BC). It is 29cm high wigh a diameter of 22cm. Unearthed in 1975 in Dongjiacun, Qishan County, Shaanxi Province, it is now in the collection of Qishan Municipal Cultural Center.

It has a cover with a handle and two ears. The handle is decorated with wind design and the ears with bird motif. The legs of the bird serve as earrings. It has a big mouth and three short legs. The container and its cover are both decorated with bird motifs. Its whole body is ornamented with
angular spiral patterns or leiwen on the background. The interior inscription with 132 characters records the land and economic system of the time. Unique and original in shape and style, it is a rare piece of ancient bronze.

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Chinese Mandarin - Food Symbolism

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Library>Culture ABC>Food & Drinks>Etiquettes

Food Symbolism

InChina, foods are given particular meanings, so that a type of food can only be eaten by some specific individuals in certain occasion, or must be eaten in specific occasion.

Usually, an honored guest will be served a snapper's head or shell to hail him and show warm welcome in some districts.

Noodles are the symbol of longevity in Chinese culture. They are as much a part of Chinese birthday celebration as a birthday cake with lit candles is in many countries, so that youngsters or seniors all will have a bowl of Long Life Noodle in the expectation of a healthy life. Since noodles do
symbolize long life, it is considered very unlucky to cut up a strand.

Eggs hold a special symbolic significance in many cultures, andChinais no exception. The Chinese believe eggs symbolize fertility. After a baby is born, parents may hold a "red egg and ginger party", where they serve round hard-boiled eggs to announce the birth. (InCentral China, the number of
eggs presented depends on the sex of the child: An even number, usually six or eight Red Boiled Eggs with a black point dotted on one end will be delivered for a boy and an odd number, usually five or seven without black point for a girl). Egg rolls or spring rolls resemble the shape of a gold
bar, and thus are often served on the New Year as a symbol of wealth and prosperity in the coming year.

Fish also play a large role in festive celebrations. The Chinese word for fish "Yu" sounds like the homophonic words both for wish and abundance. As a result, on New Year's Eve it is customary to serve a fish for dinner, symbolizing the wish for accumulations of prosperity and wealth in the coming
year. In addition, the fish is served whole, with head and tail attached, symbolizing a good beginning and ending for the coming year.

Ducks represent fidelity in Chinese culture. If you are ever invited to a Chinese wedding banquet, don't be surprised to spot a mouthwatering platter of Peking duck on the banquet table. Also, red dishes are featured at weddings as red is the color of happiness. (You may find them served at New
Year's banquets for the same reason.)

Chicken forms part of the symbolism of the dragon and phoenix in Chinese culture. At a Chinese wedding, chicken's feet, referred to as phoenix feet, are often served with dragon foods such as lobster. Chicken is also popular at Chinese New Year, symbolizing a good marriage and the coming together
of families, and serving the bird whole emphasizes family unity.

Seeds -- lotus seeds, watermelon seeds, etc -- represent bearing many children in Chinese culture. Visit an Asian bakery during the Chinese New Year, and you're likely to find a wide assortment of snacks with different types of seeds in them.

There are other foods, snacks and fruits which symbolize good wishes under special circumstances, including dried bean curd, black moss seaweed, peanuts, pomelos and oranges.

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HSK - Introduction in Chinese

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Introduction in Chinese

Download

Chinese

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Chinese School - Biggest Ancient Building Complex

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Biggest Ancient Building Complex

The biggest and most complete ancient building complex is the former Imperial Palace (also known as the Forbidden City) in Beijing. It was imperial palace of both the Ming and Qing dynasties. It was first completed in 1420 and covers an area of 720,000 square meters.

The Forbidden City, now called the Palace Museum, is located in the center of Beijing. Starting in 1420, the Forbidden City was the home to 24 Chinese emperors during the Ming and Qing dynasties (1368-1911). Now, it has developed into the Palace Museum, which displays art treasures of the past
dynasties and is the richest treasury of cultures and arts in China. Lofty and magnificent, the Forbidden City is acclaimed as one of the world five great palaces, ranking with Palace of Versailles in France, Buckingham Palace in Britain, White House in the United States and Kremlin in Russia, and
was listed by UNESCO as a World Cultural Heritage Site in 1987.

Extending 750 meters east-west and 960 meters north-south, The Forbidden City covers 720,000 square meters, and is the largest palatial complex in the world and the most complete ancient architectural group extant in China. It has 9,999 buildings, and is called the Ocean of Palaces. No matter in
terms of plain layout, three-dimensional effect or magnificent appearance, the complex is really an unparalleled masterpiece in the world. A central axis runs through the whole palace and the axis happens to be on the central axis of Beijing City. The Forbidden City is divided into southern and
northern parts by the axis: The former served as the emperor's work area and the latter as his living quarters. The main structures are arranged along the central axis, and the buildings on both sides of it are symmetrical.

The main structures in the work area that cannot be missed are the Taihe Dian (the Hall of Supreme Harmony), Zhonghe Dian (the Hall of Central Harmony) and Baohe Dian (the Hall ofPreservedHarmony). All the three main halls are built on an eight-meter-high platform covering a total area of about
85,000 square meters. The Taihe Dian is the largest and most imposing hall. It is 60.1 meters wide, 33.33 meters deep and 35.05 meters high. Here the most important ceremonies of the feudal dynasties were held, such as the emperor's enthronement, his marriage and his conferring of titles and
issuing orders on expeditions. On these occasions, thousands of people chanted "long life, long life, and long, long life" to his majesty, and hundreds of musical instruments and bells and drums sounded in unison. Behind the Taihe Dian is the Zhonghe Dian, where the emperor used to rest and
receive officials before attending major ceremonies. The northernmost structure is the Baohe Dian, in which the emperor threw banquets and interviewed successful candidates for imperial examinations.

The living quarters include the Qianqing, Jiaotai and Kunning halls and the six lesser halls on the east and west sides, which together are called "three main halls and six lesser halls", where the emperor and his concubines lived. North of the living quarters is a small but exquisite imperial
garden. In the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) and at the beginning of the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911), all the emperors lived in the QianqingGong(the Palace of Heavenly Purity), while empresses lived in the Kunning Gong (the Palace of Earthly Tranquility). The Jiaotai Dian (the Hall of Union) was a place
for the activities of the empresses. But in the middle and late periods of the Qing Dynasty, the emperors and empresses all moved to the six lesser halls on the west side. The most famous is the Yangxin Dian (the Hall of Mind Cultivation). It became the place where most Qing emperors, starting
from Emperor Yongzheng, lived and handled state affairs. It is also the place where Empress Dowager Cixi attended to state affairs behind the scenes for as long as 40 years.

The whole complex is tightly guarded by two defense lines. One is the moat, which is 52 meters wide and six meters deep, surrounding the city wall; and the other is the city wall, which is 3,400 meters long, 10 meters high and 8.62 meters wide at the bottom. There are four gates: Wumen Gate to the
south, Shenwu Gate to the north, Donghua Gate to the east and Xihua Gate to the west. On the four corners stand four turret towers, each with three layers of eaves and 72 ridges. They are masterpieces of the ancient architectural art.

Some halls in the Palace Museum have developed into the Hall of Historical Arts, the Hall of Jewelry, the Hall of Watches and Clocks, the Hall of Paintings, the Hall of Potteries, the Hall of Toys and so on. The museum has a collection of 1,052,653 pieces of ancient art treasures, accounting for
one sixth of the total cultural relics in China. It is the museum with the richest collection of cultural relics in China, and also a world-famous museum of ancient cultural arts. Many cultural relics preserved in it are unique in the world.

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Learn Mandarin online - Jing (painted face, male)

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Jing (painted face, male)

Zhang Dingbian

Zhang Dingbian, a loyal marshal, was dismissed because of his well-intended remonstration to Chen Youliang, king of the Northern Han. When Chen was defeated in the battle, Zhang came to his rescue, waiting for him with a boat at the Jiujiang River mouth.

Repertoire:At the Jiujiang River Mout

Hufa the Deity

Hufa the Deity was a character in the fairy taleThe Legend of White Snake. He was the general from the heaven, who joined hands with tricky head monk Fahai in suppressing the White Lady (the White Snake) Bai Suzhen.

Repertoire:The Legend of White Snake

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Learn Chinese online - Preface

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Exchange>Exhibition

Preface

The first objects to be used as money by the people of China were natural seashells. This marked the beginning of a transition from the old system whereby goods were traded and bartered to a new age of monetary symbols. Then came the Bronze Age, during which the Chinese used their skills and
wisdom to create a resplendent bronze culture. Bronze coins replaced shells as the currency of the age, and were supplemented by the circulation of precious metals such as gold and silver. With the emergence, growth and increase of marketplace trading, all kinds of money appeared and went into
broad circulation. Following the historical developments of modern civilization, they gradually developed into the perfectly integrated credit and currency systems in place today. The history of money in China goes back more than 4000 years, and the types of money that have been used are many and
varied, including ancient forms of money, gold and silver currency, copper coins, and paper money. The emergence of money gave people more freedom of movement and association. During every historical period or phase, the different materials and methods used in coining reflected not only political
strength, but also the state of the economy and the level of technological development. Money has always been closely linked to the development of society. The changes and replacements of currencies tell a vivid story of the vicissitudes of nations, the rise and fall of dynasties, but also amply
reflect the skill and imagination of the coiners who have made money into a rich, unique and exquisite art form. We sincerely hope that visitors to this exhibition will be able to further their knowledge and understanding of Chinese history and culture through an appreciation of the long history
of Chinese money.

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Chinese language - Xinjiang Hetian Jade

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Library>China ABC>Geography>Local Products

Xinjiang Hetian Jade

Hetian, located in the southwest of Xinjiang in Northwest China, is famous for its exquisite, pure white and flawless jade -- Hetian jade.

Hetian jade has a history of more than 2,000 years, originating in the Spring and Autumn Period (770-476BC). In ancient times, Hetian jade was transported into the Central Plains in batches and then engraved into all kinds of exquisite sacrificial vessels and jade ornaments. The Jade Clothes Sewn
with Gold Threads unearthed in a Western Han Tomb in Heibei Province is made of 2,000-odd pieces of Hetian jade. Through the ages, Hetian jade had been considered a priceless treasure.

Traditionally, the fine jade in Chinese refers to the soft jade, with a rigidity of only 6.5, which is very precious. Jade can be classified into white, green, blue, yellow and black, etc. and the white one is the most precious. Among the various Hetian jade, Yangzhi jade is considered the best of
the white jade.

This region was so abundant in Hetian jade that people in the past could easily find it on the ground. But now people have to climb the snow-covered mountain peak to find some, for not much is left on ground after so many years of exploration. According to current statistics, the annual output of
Hetian jade is around 20-30 tons.

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Chinese Pinyin - Stage Play Hello Kitty Dream Fantasy China Premiere Beijing Stop

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Stage Play Hello Kitty Dream Fantasy China Premiere Beijing Stop

Time: 2008/3/21-2008/3/23

Venue: Peoples Liberation Army Opera House

Price: 80/180/280/480/680/800/880/1000/1200/1600 yuan

The musical featuring one of the world's favorite cartoon characters, Hello Kitty is headed for the Chinese stage. "Hello Kitty's Dream Light Fantasy" is a pan-Asia production.

Easily one of Japan's most recognizable cartoon characters, Hello Kitty is known and loved the world over. Now Hello Kitty is coming to China, along with her friends, Dear Daniel, My Melody, XO and Twin Star. The musical remains true to the original personalities of the cartoon characters.

The Chinese production of the show also welcomes three well beloved Chinese characters - the white dolphin Yangyang, the giant panda Maomao and the Tibetan antelope Lingling. The story of "Hello Kitty's Dream Light Fantasy," draws all the characters together, united in the fight against Evil.

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Learning Chinese - Climate

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Library>China ABC>Geography>Climate & Territory

Climate

Brief Introduction

China has a marked continental monsoon climate characterized by great variety. Most parts of China are in the northern temperate zone while parts of the southern area are in the tropical or subtropical zone and parts of the northern area in the Frigid Zone.

Most of China lies in the north temperature zone, characterized by a warm climate and clear division between seasons, a climate well suited for habitation. In winter, northerly winds from high latitude areas keep the northern parts cold and dry; while in summer, monsoons from eastern and southern
coastal areas bring warmness and moisture.

The climate also varies with the extensive territory and various topography from region to region.

In northern China, summer is warm and short, while winter is cold and long. In southern China, summer is long, humid and hot, and the winter short and warm, with temperature rarely below freezing. In central China (the valley area along the Yangtze River), division between seasons is clear --
summer is long, hot and humid while winter, short and cold.

In northwestern China, such as Xinjiang and Inner Mongolia, summer is dry and sweltering and winter is formidably cold. On the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau (about 4,000 meters above sea level) in southwestern China, winter is extremely cold and summer is short and moderately warm, with little
precipitation and great difference in temperature between day and night.

Climate Zone

China sees various other types of climate due to its vast territory. Temperature belts from south to north appear in this order: tropical zone, subtropical zone, temperate zone, medium temperate zone and frigid temperate zone. There is also a vertical climatic zone on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau in
southwestern China.

Situated in the eastern part of the Asian continent and facing the Pacific, China also has a prominent monsoon climate. In addition, other types of climate, such as alpine climate, plateau climate, desert climate, forest climate and basin climate, coexist in China, due to complicated topography
and a great disparity in elevation.

Monsoon Climate

Most of China has a continental monsoon climate. From September to April of the following year, the dry and cold winter monsoon blow from Siberia and the Mongolian Plateau, resulting in cold and dry winters and great differences in the temperatures of northern and southern China. From April to
September, warm and humid summer monsoons blow from the seas in the east and south, resulting in overall high temperatures and plentiful rainfall, and little difference in the temperatures of northern and southern China.

In addition, cold wave, cyclone, intermittent drizzles and typhoon are also the results of monsoon climate. Caused by monsoon, the rainy season runs from May through to August and typhoons frequently occur in the southeast coast between July and September.

Precipitation

China has an average annual precipitation of 629 millimeters, which is unevenly distributed both regionally and seasonally. Precipitation gradually declines from the southeastern area to the northwestern inland area. Influenced by the oceanic warm and humid air current, most southeastern coastal
areas in China have rich rainfall, which reaches over 1,500 millimeters, while in northwestern areas annual precipitation drops to below 200 millimeters.

Temperature

China's average temperature gradually declines from the eastern area to the northern area. The Mohe area of Heilongjiang Province at the northernmost tip of China, located north of Northern Latitude 53°, has a frigid temperate averaging -5°C. Zengmu Ansha in Hainan Province at the southern end,
only 400 kilometers from the equator, is dominated by the equatorial climate with an average temperature of 25°C. Most parts of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau have a temperature below 0°C. Thus, there is great temperature difference between the south and the north.

In summer, the temperature is high nationwide, and temperature difference is small between the north and the south. In winter, most areas in China are cold and the temperature varies greatly between northern and southern parts, with the biggest difference up to 50°C. In Mohe, the lowest
temperature in a year can reach 52.3°C, while that in Sanya, Hainan, is above 20°c.

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Pnyin - China Story Part 5

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China Story Part 5

Rice Seller

Watermelon Seller

Old Man from the Three Gorges

Shaolin Kungfu

Old Well

Twins

On Beijing Street

Shangrila Tibetans

Go to Market

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Learn Chinese online - Maolan National Nature Reserve

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Library>China ABC>Fauna Flora>Nature Reserves

Maolan National Nature Reserve

Maolan National Nature Reserve lies in the southeast of Libo County in the Buyei & Miao Autonomous Prefecture, south of Guizhou Province. The Reserve covers an area of 20,000 hectares with forest coverage of 91.59%. As a subtropical original ancient plant kingdom, it is a karst virgin forest
rarely seen in the subtropical zone along the same latitude, and is characterized by its wildness, peculiarity and beauty. Established in 1987, Maolan National Nature Reserve was included in the International Man and Biosphere Reserve Network of UNESCO in 1996.

Maolan National Nature Reserve is located in the central subtropical zone, and karst in various sizes and shapes is very representative, typical and of scientific importance. The varied karst landscapes of the Reserve always attract world attention. In the Reserve, falling leaves pile heavily and
average annual precipitation reaches over 1,700 millimeters. Rich rainfall and temperate climate provide favorable conditions for the growing of vegetation there.

Nearly a thousand specimens were collected through the preliminary investigation, among which tree species account for over 500 including most precious species such as ginkgo, Chinese tulip and yew podocarpus, and a variety of Libo bamboo that is unique in China. This dense primitive forest is
also an ideal home for wildlife such as rhesus monkeys, musk deer, South China tigers, various amphibians, reptiles, silver pheasant and insects, which are all under the state protection.

The natural vegetation in the Reserve remains lush and thriving and there are plants that have survived from a very early period. High arbors, dense shrubs and various rattans in the Reserve intertwine inextricably. Picturesque stones and rocks due to the hydrologic effect are covered with
bryophytes. Many tree roots grow on rocks nakedly and some have already permeated the rocks and become part of them. All these mentioned form the unique doline karst landscape.

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Learn Mandarin online - Old Operas and Young Hearts

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Old Operas and Young Hearts

Two master performers of Kunqu and Peking operas will sing their hearts out this weekend in special Lunar New Year's performances that highlight traditional theater for the young.

Keeping traditional Chinese opera alive and appealing to younger audiences is a never-ending challenge in the face of fast-paced modern entertainment, talent shows and pop music. Kunqu and Peking opera highlights are on tap this weekend.

Both entertainment groups and artists themselves are trying to innovate and expand the appeal of the ancient theatrical art forms. Long, drawn-out stories are shortened and new elements - both thematic and choreographic - are added to attract young people accustomed to fast-food entertainment.

Since last April, the Shanghai Media Group has been preserving valuable audio-visual recordings of 30 Yueju Opera masters and 32 musicians from old videotapes and floppy disks and transferring them to DVDs.

The recordings span 80 years, covering stage performances and interviews. Some are black and white silent video clips.

"This is an important campaign to prevent traditional art forms from fading into history," says Yuan Xuefen, a famous Yueju Opera performer.

According to SMG's program materials center, the digital copies will be used for research and screened to increase public awareness.

Popular entertainment shows also have kept alive the spirit of opera. Two TV programs "Kefan Hours," an interview show hosted by Cao Kefan, and "Yueju Opera Young Actors TV Challenge Tournament" were honored at the 20th Chinese TV Entertainment Star Lighting Awards.

Opera producers are being encouraged to preserve tradition while adding modern elements, like dramatic stage settings and lighting, to interest young people and help revive old arts.

Over this weekend, fans of traditional Chinese opera can enjoy two performances featuring veteran singers and their young apprentices.

Tomorrow night, renowned Kunqu Opera artist Liu Yilong and his apprentices, Hou Zhe and Hu Gang, will stage a Lunar New Year's show at the Yifu Theater. Liu, 68, from the Shanghai Kunqu Opera House, is renowned for his portrayals of clowns (chou), a classic role.

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Chinese School - Labyrinths, Visual Arts Show Celebrating Cultural Year of Greece

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Labyrinths, Visual Arts Show Celebrating Cultural Year of Greece

Marking the Cultural Year of Greece in China, the “Labyrinths” exhibition brings together two ancient civilizations through contemporary art expression, from January 12 to February 15, 2008, at 798 Art Space in Beijing.

The labyrinths of the ancient Greeks were complex structures with convoluted passages and crossing galleries, and it was almost impossible to find a way out of them. Yet, mythical Theseus and Ariadne managed to make their way out using a simple thread.

With this thread as their guide through the labyrinths of today –modern life, crowded metropolises and the fast pace of urban and financial growth in cities such as Beijing and Athens– Babel and 31 Greek artists have come here to share and exchange images and ideas, and to celebrate together
the creative communication of cultures.

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Chinese Online Class - Sika Deer

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Library>China ABC>Fauna Flora>Introduction and Regulations>Class I Animals>Mammalia

Sika Deer

With the alias of Flower Deer, it belongs to the Cervidae family of Artiodactyla order. Its scientific name is Cervus nippon (Latin) or Sika Deer (English).

Sika Deer is a medium-size deer, with about 140 to 170 centimeters in body length, 85 to 100 centimeters in shoulder height, and 100 to 150 kilograms in weight (adult). The female deer is much smaller than the male. The male has horns, mostly four forks. In the middle of the back is a dun back
line. Its tail is short, with black backside and white ventral side. In summer its hair is brownish yellow, full of vivid white plum blossom spots, hence it gets the name. And its hip has white spots.

It inhabits forest fringes or upland meadows. Its habitats vary with the change ofseasons.Male deer mostly leads a solitary life, in oestrus and mating period it returns to the group. Moving about in the morning and dusk, it feeds on green grass and leaves, fond of lapping salt and alkali. Oestrus
and mating are usually between September and November, with impetuous contention for females among the male. Each male possesses a definite domain scope. Between April and June in the next year, the female gives birth to baby, with one baby per fetus, and the baby body with white spots.

Distributed in Anhui, Jiangxi and Sichuan provinces and Northeast China, Sika Deer is of very high economic value. But due to past excessive hunting and killing, the quantity of wild Sika Deer is very small. In the common boundary of Jiangxi, Anhui and Zhejiang, the amount is about 200 to 300;
while in northern part of Sichuan, the number is between 500 and 600. In Taiwan wild Sika Deer has disappeared, with only breeding population remaining. There may still be some wild population in Northeast China. Now the bred population has reached several ten thousand.

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Chinese Online Class - Ten recommended Beijing shopping streets

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Ten recommended Beijing shopping streets

( 2008-07-21 )

Beijing is a great place for shopping. From the latest fashions to fine arts to more types of tea than you can think of, it is most likely that it can be found in the capital.

Here are 10 streets for great shopping as recommended by Xinhua.

Liulichang Street

Liulichang, or Glass Street, near the Hepingmen metro station on subway Line 2, aka the "loop line," got its name from the colored glaze factories set up in the Yuan (1271-1368) and Ming(1368-1644) dynasties.

It evolved into a commercial area focusing on traditional Chinese culture starting at the beginning of the Qing Dynasty(1644-1911) when merchants opened the first antique stalls along the street.

If you have an interest in calligraphy and art, china or traditional Chinese ornaments, and you're looking for a memento of your trip other than Olympic souvenirs, Liulichang is highly recommended -- and don't forget to try on the eye-catching jewelry if you fancy something.

Almost 100 traditional-style shops on both sides of the street will take you away from the bustle of modern life into a Qing bazaar.

Shishahai Bar Street

After cheering for your country or favorite athlete at the Games, you may want to wet your whistle at Shishahai bar street.

The best way to get there is by cab. Just tell the driver to take you to the north gate of Beihai Park - or Beihai gong yuan in Chinese.

Modern night life in a traditional Chinese courtyard makes the street a favorite for foreigners in Beijing. It's also a great place for a little shopping.

We recommend a stroll down Xieyandai Street.

The 200-meter-long alley is lit by palace lanterns glowing above the steps of the small shops.

The establishments here mainly win the hearts of shoppers for their collection of designed stationery, jewellery,stylish clothing and accessories, which shop owners have gathered in their journeys to such areas as China's southern Yunnan province, Tibet, India and Nepal.

Its highly possible that what you pick up here will not be found anywhere else in the world.

Nanluoguxiang, South Gong and Drum Lane

The history of this 800 meter-long, south-north lane, which is just a block east of Shishahai, can be traced back to the Yuan Dynasty.

It is up to you to push open the wooden doors to the shops and discover fine silk shawls and various handicrafts designed by local artists.

Like some of its counterparts in Beijing, Nanluoguxiang is also featured by its fusion of the modern and old, East and West.

Among the popular shops is the t-shirt store Plastered. Its British owner has Chinese characters of the famous Beijing dish gong bao ji ding, or kung pao chicken, printed on white t-shirts and it sells well.

Creativity is a major attraction of Nanluoguxiang as many shops are owned and run by local designers and artists. Places like Le Tian and Shi Jie specialize in handmade potteries.

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　 Emblems More

* Dancing Beijing -- Beijing 2008 Olympic Emblem

============================================================================================================================================================================================================================================================================================================

* Beijing Paralympics Emblem ( 07-10 )
* Environmental Emblem of Beijing 2008 ( 07-10 )
* Emblem of the Beijing Olympic Torch Relay ( 07-10 )
* Emblem of the Beijing 2008 OYC ( 07-10 )
* Emblem of the Beijing Olympic Cultural Festival ( 07-10 )

News More

* Illustrated Olympic giant panda story comes out
* Ten recommended Beijing shopping streets
* Let the fashion parade begin
* Chinese soprano holds solo concert in Greece
* Int'l sand sculpture festival in Italy highlights Beijing Olympics

Meet in Beijing More

* Dance Along the River during the Qingming Festival
* Concert by Macao Chinese Orchestra
* Kataklo Athletic Dance Theatre
* UK Contemporary Exhibition
* The Russia Star Ballet

Olympic on Beijing's Axis

　 Online Tour

============================================================================================================================================================================================================================================================================================================

| About us | E-mail | Contact |

Constructed by .cn
Copyright 2003 Ministry of Culture, P.R.China. All rights reserved

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Chinese Speaking - The Third Lianzhou International Photo Festival 2007

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The Third Lianzhou International Photo Festival 2007

The 2007 Lianzhou International Photo Festival is the third edition of this hugely successful event in Guangdong Province, China. It is an annual international festival enabling collaboration between photography, art, sociology, anthropology and urban studies. The festival unveiled on December. 8
and will run till 22.

Centered on Photography the festival consists of over 90 exhibits that also cover art, video, installations, sound and other forms. Top photographers, artists, and experts from around the world will participate in the exhibition, related forums and screenings.

The festival strives to entertain, educate, enlighten and inspire through a programme that is characterised by a high artistic level and a strong academic background. All exhibitions are curated by industry professionals.

Enhancing the festival's cultural mission, this year's central theme The Alchemy of Shadows will head a host of well-planned thematic exhibitions that will explore contemporary photography in terms of its nature as an event taking place in world, its temporality and narrative capacity through the
academic theme exhibition The Theater of Time.

This year LIPF will take the relationship between photography and contemporary art experimentation one step further by hosting a show of the most recent works of experimental art photography.

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Chinese Character - Synchronized Swimming

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|Home|News Center|Cultural Olympics|City of Beijing|Sports Tradition|China Impression|

Synchronized Swimming

( 2008-07-10 )

Venue: National Aquatics Center

Time: Aug 18 - 20, Aug 22 - 23

It looks like perhaps the most effortless event in the Olympic Games, but there is more to synchronised swimming than what appears on the surface. Besides demanding strength, endurance, flexibility, grace and artistry, it requires exceptional breath control.

Unusual, but vital, equipment helps the women maintain the illusion of effortlessness, no simple task considering they perform strenuous movements upside down and underwater while holding their breath. A nose clip prevents water from entering the nose, allowing the swimmers to remain underwater
for long periods. Gelatine keeps the hair in place. Make-up brings out the features.

Most importantly, an underwater speaker lets the swimmers hear the music clearly while underwater, helping them achieve the split-second timing critical to synchronised swimming.

Originally known as water ballet, synchronised swimming began in Canada in the 1920s. It spread to the United States in the early '30s, where a display at the 1934 Chicago World's Fair drew rave reviews. Its popularity soared further when Esther Williams performed in a string of MGM "aqua
musicals" in the 1940s and '50s.

COMPETITION

Synchronised swimming emerged as an exhibition sport at the Olympic Games from 1948 to 1968, then debuted as a full medal sport in Los Angeles in 1984. It is open only to women, with medals offered in two events: duet and team.

Competition for both events consists of a technical routine and a free routine, each performed to music within a time limit. In the technical routine, swimmers perform specific moves in a set order, including boosts, rockets, thrusts and twirls. In the free routine there are no restrictions on
music or choreography. Judges of each routine look for a high degree of difficulty and risk, flawless execution, innovative choreography and seemingly effortless performance.

The judging for synchronised swimming resembles the judging for figure skating. Two panels of five judges assess a performance, one panel scoring technical merit and the other assessing artistic impression. In both cases, each judge awards a mark out of a possible 10.

LIST OF EVENTS

Duet Women Team Women

　 Emblems More

* Dancing Beijing -- Beijing 2008 Olympic Emblem

============================================================================================================================================================================================================================================================================================================

* Beijing Paralympics Emblem ( 07-10 )
* Environmental Emblem of Beijing 2008 ( 07-10 )
* Emblem of the Beijing Olympic Torch Relay ( 07-10 )
* Emblem of the Beijing 2008 OYC ( 07-10 )
* Emblem of the Beijing Olympic Cultural Festival ( 07-10 )

News More

* Illustrated Olympic giant panda story comes out
* Ten recommended Beijing shopping streets
* Let the fashion parade begin
* Chinese soprano holds solo concert in Greece
* Int'l sand sculpture festival in Italy highlights Beijing Olympics

Meet in Beijing More

* Dance Along the River during the Qingming Festival
* Concert by Macao Chinese Orchestra
* Kataklo Athletic Dance Theatre
* UK Contemporary Exhibition
* The Russia Star Ballet

Olympic on Beijing's Axis

　 Online Tour

============================================================================================================================================================================================================================================================================================================

| About us | E-mail | Contact |

Constructed by .cn
Copyright 2003 Ministry of Culture, P.R.China. All rights reserved

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Chinese Pinyin - Packing List

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Packing List

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packing list

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Learning Mandarin - Henan Province

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Library>China ABC>Geography>Introduction

Henan Province

Geography

Henan, an agricultural province, lies in the middle-lower reaches of the Yellow River. Situated 110"22"-116"38" east longitude and 31"23"-36"22" north latitude, it covers an area of more than 167,000 square kilometers.

Climate

Henan has a continental climate of the North Temperate Zone, with hot, rainy summers, dry, inclement winters and windy springs. It has a mean temperature of 13oC-15oC, increasing from north to south, an annual frost-free period of 6-8 months, and a mean annual precipitation of 600-900 mm., also
increasing from north to south.

Administrative Division and Population

It is divided into 17 prefecture-level cities, 21 county-level cities and 89 counties, with a population of 92.56 million as of 2000, mainly including ethnic groups of Han, Hui, Mongolia, and Manchu.

Food

Liyu Beimian (Carp Covered with Baked Noodles in Sweet and Sour Sauce), Luoyang Shuixi (Feast Characterized by Its Soup in Luoyang Style), Songgong Miangao (Pastry Originating From the Imperial Palace of the Song Dynasty), etc.

Culture

Yuju (Henan Opera) is the most important opera genre; other operas include Quju, Yue Diao, and Henan Zhuizi, etc.

Special Local Products

The traditional specialties are Henan embroidery in Kaifeng, Maojian Tea in Xinyang and Dukang Wine in Luoyang.

Brief Introduction

Yu is the shortened form of Henan Province, with Zhenzhou as the provincial capital.

Henan (South of the River) gets its name from its geographic characteristic -- the greater part of the province is lying south of the Yellow River. Being one of the earliest developed regions in the country, it was a political and cultural center in ancient China. In the remote past, China was
divided into nine geographical regions, and Henan was called the "Central Region" or "Central Plain" because it was situated in the middle of the nine regions. During the Song Dynasty (960-1279), Kaifeng of Henan was not only the political, economic and cultural center, but also one of the most
prosperous international capitals.

Henan has highly developed agriculture and industries. Its agricultural products of wheat, cotton, tobacco, sesame and peanut are among the most important in the whole country. Its output of coal and petroleum holds an important position in China.

Henan, holding a very important position in Chinese history, abounds in tourist resources. The places of interest include Songshan Mountain, Jigong Mountain, the Imperial Mausoleum of the Eastern Zhou Dynasty (770-256BC), the White Horse Temple in Luoyang, the Longmen Grotto, the Chancellor Temple
in Kaifeng, the Shaolin Temple in Dengfeng, the Zhongyue Temple and so on.

Luoyang City of Henan is a renowned historic city, which was once the capital of 13 dynasties. It is recognized as the Capital of Poems for its abundance in literati and the Capital of Flowers for its typical flower peony.

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Speak Chinese - Chinese Modern Arts Exhibition in Vienna

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Chinese Modern Arts Exhibition in Vienna

With the theme of “China: Facing the Reality,” the Chinese Modern Arts exhibition was unveiled on Oct.25 in Vienna, Austria and will run until Jan. 21, 2008. Over 100 pieces of art works by 27 Chinese artists were on display at the exhibition.

Visitors take a look at the art works at the Chinese Modern Arts exhibition in Vienna, Austria, Oct. 25, 2007.

The works used visual art forms including equipment, videos and paintings to achieve their desired effects.

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Learn Mandarin online - Xiamen to Hold the Fourth China International Piano Competition

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Xiamen to Hold the Fourth China International Piano Competition

Official website:http://cipc.cc/eindex.asp

The fourth China International Piano Competition will be held from October 15-25 in Xiamen, and is expected to attract roughly 100 contestants, from China and abroad..

The competition is organized by the Ministry of Culture and is one of China's top piano contests. It has been admitted by the Association of Friends at the Geneva International Music Competition.

The first competition was held in September 1994 and drew 37 contestants from 18 countries, while the second, in December 1999, attracted 47 competitors from 19 countries and the third, in May 2004, was attended by 38 contestants from 25 countries. Notable past winners include Chen Sa, Li Yundi
and Qin Chuan.

Bao Huiqiao, vice chairman of the Chinese Musicians Association, will lead a jury of 13 musicians from China, Italy, the United States, Japan, Australia, Norway, and Spain. Chinese composer Wu Zuqiang, known for his cantata "Fighting with the Flood," will serve as art director, and the China
National Symphony Orchestra (CNSO) will be the accompanying orchestra, playing under the guidance of conductor Li Xincao, who became the organization's youngest permanent conductor at 28.

The competition, which will feature three separate rounds, will be open to pianists of all nationalities between the ages of 17 and 32. No more than 12 contestants will make the semi-final round, and no more than six will be admitted to the final round.

The first place prize is US$30,000; the second to sixth prizes are US$20,000, US$10,000, US$8,000, US$6,000, and US$5,000 respectively. The total monetary amount of the prizes, according to the organizing committee, is the highest among similar competitions.

Traveling expenses to and from Xiamen of China will be paid by the competitors. A travel allowance of US$500 will be given to competitors from Europe, America, Oceania and Africa; US$250 will be given to competitors from Asian countries, Taiwan, Hong Kong and Macao.

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Learning Chinese - Beijing Municipality

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Library>China ABC>Geography>Introduction







Beijing Municipality




Geography



Beijing, the capital of China, is located in the northern part of the North China Plain. It is situated at 39"26" north latitude and 115"25"-117"30" east longitude, with an area of 16,807 square kilometers, of which 2,738 square kilometers for the city center. In terms of outlying geographical
features, the extensive Yanshan Mountain range forms a silvan screen to the northeast, the long, winding Taihang Mountain range to the west. Just beyond, to the northwest, the vast Mongolian plateau begins. The Bohai Gulf lies 113 kilometers to the east and to the south, the vast North China Plain.

Climate

Beijing has a continental monsoon climate commonly found in the temperate zone. In winter, cold, dry winds blow out of Siberia and Mongolia in the northwest; in summer, warm, moist air currents from the southeast take over. It has an annual average temperature of 11.5oC. The coldest month in
Beijing is January, with an average temperature of -9 to -4oC; the hottest month is July, with an average of 25oC. The average annual rainfall is 609 millimeters.

Administrative Division and Population

Beijing is divided into 14 districts and 4 counties, with a population of 13.82 million, mainly with Han, Hui, Manchu and Mongolian ethnic groups.

Official Trees and Flowers

Official city trees: the Chinese scholar tree and oriental cypress

The stately cypress symbolizes the courage and strength of the Chinese people, their simple, and hard working nature and their defiance in the face of aggression. The scholar tree is a symbol of good fortune, joy and well-being.

Official city flowers: China rose and chrysanthemum

The rose, a Chinese native, has been cross　bred many times, but it still has half of the original Chinese traits. Known as Perpetual Spring, Monthly Red, Snow Challenger and Victorious, it grows quickly, regenerates easily and is graceful and long blooming (May to October).

The chrysanthemum has many names and varieties. In Beijing potted chrysanthemums may be seen year round. They flower in summer and fall naturally but can be forced to bloom any time of year.

Food

Dishes with special flavor such as the Peking roast duck, imperial court food, imperial official food and medicinal food, hot pot; traditional snacks such as sausage, quick-fried tripe, soya-bean milk, jellied bean curd, seasoned flour mush, jimmy meat and fried pasty, etc.

Brief Introduction

Beijing is the one of the birthplaces of Chinese Civilization and one of the six ancient capital cities in China. During the last 3,000 years it served as a capital for several dynasties. Since the discovery of a complete skull of Peking man living approximately 200,000 to 500,000 years ago in
Zhoukoudian, situated 50 kilometers to the southwest of Beijing proper, Zhoukoudian became world-famous as the home of the Chinese ape-man.

Beijing, a municipality directly under the Central Government, is the capital of the People's Republic of China and the country's political, economic, cultural and transportation center as well as a famous historic city. Beijing is the second largest city in China.

Beijing is the political center of China where the Party's Central Committee, the State Council, ministries and commissions under the government, and more than 140 foreign embassies are located. It is also an international exchange center.

Being one of the biggest industrial bases in China, Beijing's industrial production is the second largest in value among all Chinese cities. An industrial system with iron and steel, coal, machinery, chemical and petroleum, textiles, electronics and other industries as its mainstays has already
taken shape. Beijing's arts and crafts are famous for their long history, great variety, and superb workmanship. The most popular ones among them are cloisonne, ivory carving, jade ware, carved lacquer ware, snuff bottles, silk flowers and Beijing's embroidery etc.

As the country's center of culture, education, science and technology, Beijing has more than forty state scientific research institutions, over thirty universities and various exhibition halls, museums, cinemas and palestras. The National Library of China is the largest library in Asia.

It is a hub of communications, with good railroad and air links with all parts of China, as well as with major international cities, thus facilitating the rapid development of tourism as an important industry in Beijing.

Beijing is an ancient city with a long cultural history. The four feudal dynasties -- Jin, Yuan, Ming, and Qing had all set up their capital here. That's why it became a most concentrated place of the country's scenic spots and historical sites, with 23 State-protected Sites of Cultural Relics.
Among them, the best known are the Forbidden City, the Summer Palace, the Great Wall, the Temple of Heaven, Zhoukoudian Site, and the Ming Tombs, etc. Beijing's Hutong (narrow bystreets) and Siheyuan (quadrangle) are quite worth a visit.











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HSK Exam - Xiamen to Hold the Fourth China International Piano Competition

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Exchange>Competition







Xiamen to Hold the Fourth China International Piano Competition








Official website:http://cipc.cc/eindex.asp

The fourth China International Piano Competition will be held from October 15-25 in Xiamen, and is expected to attract roughly 100 contestants, from China and abroad..

The competition is organized by the Ministry of Culture and is one of China's top piano contests. It has been admitted by the Association of Friends at the Geneva International Music Competition.

The first competition was held in September 1994 and drew 37 contestants from 18 countries, while the second, in December 1999, attracted 47 competitors from 19 countries and the third, in May 2004, was attended by 38 contestants from 25 countries. Notable past winners include Chen Sa, Li Yundi
and Qin Chuan.

Bao Huiqiao, vice chairman of the Chinese Musicians Association, will lead a jury of 13 musicians from China, Italy, the United States, Japan, Australia, Norway, and Spain. Chinese composer Wu Zuqiang, known for his cantata "Fighting with the Flood," will serve as art director, and the China
National Symphony Orchestra (CNSO) will be the accompanying orchestra, playing under the guidance of conductor Li Xincao, who became the organization's youngest permanent conductor at 28.

The competition, which will feature three separate rounds, will be open to pianists of all nationalities between the ages of 17 and 32. No more than 12 contestants will make the semi-final round, and no more than six will be admitted to the final round.

The first place prize is US$30,000; the second to sixth prizes are US$20,000, US$10,000, US$8,000, US$6,000, and US$5,000 respectively. The total monetary amount of the prizes, according to the organizing committee, is the highest among similar competitions.

Traveling expenses to and from Xiamen of China will be paid by the competitors. A travel allowance of US$500 will be given to competitors from Europe, America, Oceania and Africa; US$250 will be given to competitors from Asian countries, Taiwan, Hong Kong and Macao.





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Free Chinese Lesson

world heritage in China



| 繁体 | 简体 | English |
　
　







Kaiping Diaolou and Villages(Kaiping City, Guangdong Province)






Kaiping Diaolou and Villages, the unique residential and defensive buildings in Guangdong's Kaiping, were inscribed on UNESCO's World Heritage List on June 28.

The cultural site nomination was approved by the ongoing 31st session of the World Heritage Committee, which convened June 23 in Christchurch New Zealand June 23.

Kaiping Diaolou and Villages feature the Diaolou, multi-storied defensive village houses in Kaiping, Guangdong Province, which display a complex fusion of Chinese and Western structural and decorative forms. They reflect the significant role of émigré Kaiping people in the development of several
countries in South Asia, Australasia, and North America, during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, and the close links between overseas Kaiping and their ancestral homes.

The property inscribed consists of four groups of Diaolou, totaling some 1,800 tower houses in their village settings. They reflect the culmination of almost five centuries of tower-house building and the still strong links between Kaiping and the Chinese diaspora.

These buildings take three forms: communal towers built by several families and used as temporary refuge, of which 473 remain; residential towers built by individual rich families and used as fortified residences, of which 1,149 survive; and watch towers, the latest development, which account for
221 of the buildings. Built of stone, compressed earth, brick or concrete, these buildings represent a complex and confident fusion between Chinese and Western architectural styles. Retaining a harmonious relationship with the surrounding agricultural landscape, the Diaolou testify to the final
flowering of local building traditions that started in the Ming period (1368-1644) in response to local banditry.










Constructed by
Copyright (c) 2003 Ministry of Culture, P.R.China. All rights reserved





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Chinese Studies - Chinese Podcasts (w/ transcripts?) - Page 3 -

> Learning Chinese > Resources and General Study Issues
Chinese Podcasts (w/ transcripts?)
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venture160 -

you could always buy copies of talk and news shows on DVD and then extract the subtitles. I don't
know how to do it but I know it can be done.



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About Ads (and how to hide them) -- Your message here









flameproof -

The link I posted is some Xiangsheng / 相声 audios. Sound quality is not really good.

Would "Xiangsheng" be suitable? I know it's famous in China, there must be some scripted audio out
there.....



Quote:

you could always buy copies of talk and news shows on DVD and then extract the subtitles.

To rip the subtitles and audio from a DVD..... good idea! I will look into that!










rherschbach -

The frustrating thing about CRI is that the files are all streaming audio and can't be downloaded.
At least not as far as I can tell -- does anyone else know a way? I sure wish they would catch on
to the notion of podcasting.










ironlady -

Pretty advanced listening stuff, and focused mostly on US topics, but the Voice of America has
quite a few of their short newscasts in .mp3 format with transcripts. Same with the United Nations
newscasts (a bit more general in content).










slattery -



Quote:

The frustrating thing about CRI is that the files are all streaming audio and can't be downloaded.
At least not as far as I can tell -- does anyone else know a way?

Using FlashGet, I just downloaded an audio from there with no problems. I also have the FlashGot
plugin in Firefox, which works together with FlashGet. Hope that helps!










imron -



Quote:

The frustrating thing about CRI is that the files are all streaming audio and can't be downloaded.
At least not as far as I can tell -- does anyone else know a way?

Use SDP. It works great.










rherschbach -

Thanks for the suggestions and links, will try them out!










Shadowdh -

Thanks for the info peop's... also Imron thanks for the SDP thingy...










roddy -

iMandarinpod.com might be worth a look. Small number (so far) of downloadable audio files, with
PDFs, etc. No awards are going to be won for production values - dialogs are acted out by a single
speaker for a start - but you get a fair chunk of fairly simple Chinese spoken at a comprehensible
pace.










rherschbach -

Had a listen to them yesterday. Liked the podcasts a lot -- though you're right, the production
isn't exactly state of the art. On the bright side, it's all free. Also noticed this on their
website:

"We also provide private lessons and group lessons. A private lesson is good for people who want
to learn Chinese systematically, especially want to speak correct Chinese fluently like a native
Chinese. We will make use of the advantage of internet to conduct the lesson; so that, you don't
need to travel to take part in the class personally. It is a great save of your time and money! In
addition, the private lesson is customized and meet your own requirement. It is on demand service,
and it is just for you!

For the small group lessons, we recommend 2 to 4 people at most. It is a great opportunity to
practice speaking among classmates. We will evaluate each participant to make sure they are at the
same level."












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Chinese Class - Chinese Lesson

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Guide to Chinese
Living in China


Showing results 1 to 4 of 4
Search took 0.18 seconds; generated 3 minute(s) ago. Search: Posts Made By: trevelyan

Forum: Adsotrans.com Forum 10th February 2008, 02:21 PM

Replies: 9

Duelling definitions

Views: 679

Posted By trevelyan


Re: Duelling definitions

Yup, it is all live.

To edit the XML associated with an entry look it up using the advanced editing interface
(http://adsotrans.com/uniedit.php). Be sure that "Show Code" is clicked and then provide...



Forum: Adsotrans.com Forum 12th January 2008, 07:16 PM

Replies: 9

Duelling definitions

Views: 679

Posted By trevelyan


Re: Duelling definitions

It's an open question. I've added it - if someone finds it unnatural in other circumstances we can
always delete it easily enough. We're getting this translation now, which isn't too bad despite
the...



Forum: Adsotrans.com Forum 11th January 2008, 04:20 PM

Replies: 9

Duelling definitions

Views: 679

Posted By trevelyan


Re: Duelling definitions

We can add an entry for "还要看" which will translate as "depending on" using similar logic,
and resegment itself into two (or three) words if 看 is the main verb in the sentence.



Forum: Adsotrans.com Forum 11th January 2008, 04:16 PM

Replies: 9

Duelling definitions

Views: 679

Posted By trevelyan


Re: Duelling definitions

Best solution is probably using XML to get Adso to ignore the "even more" entry by default. Then
add specific conditions to boost its chance of being selected in specific cases where it is a
suitable...



Showing results 1 to 4 of 4





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