Chinese culture provides extra attraction for foreign students

Pakistan native Yasir Masood is a doctoral student at the University of International Business and Economics in Beijing.

"China's long and legendary history, as well as its lively cultural setting, have left an indelible impression on me. China has stunning natural scenery, mouthwatering food and an array of exciting activities waiting to be discovered," he said.

Chinese culture has evolved over thousands of years into a rich and diverse fabric of traditions, customs and practices. The culture can be learned through books, movies, art, music, food and language, he said.

Studying Mandarin is a popular way to learn about the culture. Understanding the language allows one to gain knowledge of Chinese history, culture, and customs, Masood said, adding that ancient literature is another excellent resource for learning about the country and its culture.

"China is also home to some of the world's most famous monuments, including the Great Wall, the Forbidden City and the Terracotta Warriors. Seeing these sites in person and learning about China's rich material history is another great way to get to know the country," he said.

Furthermore, Chinese cuisine is an important element of national culture, and it is well-known for its distinct flavors and cooking techniques. Understanding of Chinese culture can be gained through tasting the various cuisines and learning about the ingredients and preparation techniques used, he added.