Discover China

Approximately the same size as New York’s Central Park, Shenzhen’s Central Park virtually bisects the main part of the city. With the addition of Bijia Mountain, it reaches from the foothills in the north all the way down to Binhe Boulevard. Find out more in James Baquet’s Shenzhen Daily article Central Park and Bijia Mt.

A ceremony to inaugurate the Year of Chinese Culture in Australia was held in Canberra on Thursday. It’s the second phase of cultural exchange activities between the two countries and will officially begin in June. Find out more in the CNTV News item Year of Chinese Culture inaugurated in Australia.

With its long history spanning thousands of years, diverse culture and culinary delights, China is now the world’s third-most popular holiday destination. In the news item China attracts more foreign travellers CNTV reports that China saw over 55 million tourist arrivals last year, marking a 10 percent increase, and China’s tourism industry officials are optimistic the flow of foreign visitors will only increase. From My China Trips I completely agree – it’s a great destination not just for for your next holiday, but many more to come!

Events are being held across China to mark the fifth day of the Lunar New Year – or “Po Wu” as it’s known in Chinese. A big part of ” Po Wu” is getting up early to clean houses and also to eat dumplings. To find out more see the CNTV news item Events held across China to mark “Po Wu”.

Happy Chinese New Year, or “Gong Xi Fa Cai” in Mandarin and “Gong Hey Fat Choy” in Cantonese! The Spring Festival, or Chinese Lunar New Year, is a very important traditional festival. It begins on 3 Feb this year and marks the start of the Year of the Rabbit. Learn more in the China Daily Special Feature 2011 Spring Festival.