Over their long and colourful history, the Chinese people have produced a variety of fascinating and useful cultural artefacts and performances - from the compass and paper money to tea ceremonies and wedding parties - that have won the admiration of people around the world, and improved living conditions for many who remain unaware of the ...

Over their long and colourful history, the Chinese people have produced a variety of fascinating and useful cultural artefacts and performances - from the compass and paper money to tea ceremonies and wedding parties - that have won the admiration of people around the world, and improved living conditions for many who remain unaware of the inventions' Chinese origins. This book's forty concise chapters serve as windows into a wide range of Chinese cultural traditions and innovations. Some aspects of culture featured here include Chinese gardens, homes, and temples; calligraphy, chess, and clothing; paper cutting, seals, and musical instruments; martial arts and Peking Opera; and feng shui (auspicious design). Amply illustrated, with idiomatic phrases parsed throughout, the authors offer a road map to guide both the novice and ""old hand"" alike through the essential traits of Chinese culture.