Official Name: People’s Republic of China
Population: 1.3 billion
Capital city: Beijing
Time difference: China is +8 GMT, so China is 12 hours ahead of the east coast, 15 hours ahead of the west coast. The entire country of China is in one time zone.
National animal: giant panda
National flower: (unofficial) tree peony
National bird: (unofficial) red ibis
National anthem: March of the Volunteers
Geography: China is geographically diverse, including deserts, mountains, and river basins. Two thirds of the country is high plateaus and mountains. The climate ranges from subarctic to subtropical. The majority of the population is densely settled in the temperate, eastern half of the country. If you choose to study in Beijing, you’ll experience a long, warm summer and a long chilly winter, with short, but lovely fall and spring. While interning in Shanghai, you’ll notice that the weather is typically mild and wet, with a warm spring and cool fall. There will be a few hot weeks in the summer, and a few cold weeks in the winter, but overall, the climate is mild. The climate of Hong Kong is subtropical, so winter is cool and pleasant, while summer is hot with frequent rain. So, during your internship in Hong Kong, be certain to bring your umbrella and warm weather clothing.
Important Holidays: The two main official holidays are Labor Day (May 1) and National Day (October 1). In addition to official holidays, there are numerous traditional Chinese holidays; the best known of which is Spring Festival (Chinese New Year), which takes place on the lunar new year (generally in January or February). Celebration for the Spring Festival may last a few days or a few weeks depending on where you are at the time. Regardless of where you are, the sound of fire crackers will fill the air! During these holidays, almost everything shuts down, as people spend time with their families. Parks and open areas are filled with people celebrating, and you’re sure to get invited to many parties and celebrations.
Languages: The most widely spoken language in China is Mandarin, followed by Cantonese, Shanghainese, and numerous minority languages and dialects. Fortunately, you will be studying Mandarin while in China, so you will be able to speak with and understand almost everyone you come in contact with. Do keep in mind that Shanghainese is widely spoken in Shanghai and if you are interning in Shanghai, you will hear it a lot. Similarly, Cantonese is widely spoken in Hong Kong; however, in both locations, most everyone speaks Mandarin as well.
Famous people: Confucius (philosopher), Mao Zedong (Chairman Mao, political theorist and communist leader), Jimmy Choo (London-based fashion designer), Jackie Chan (actor), Gong Li (actress), Yao Ming (NBA athlete)
Great movies: Kung Fu Hustle; Hero; Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon; Raise the Red Lantern; Farewell My Concubine; In the Mood for Love; Please Vote for Me; Drunken Master