But how? There are some 10,000 Chinese characters in common use. Basic literacy, according to the Chinese government, starts at two thousand characters.

Essential Mandarin Chinese Phrases to Use on Your Next Trip Learning simple Mandarin Chinese phrases and words is easier than it seems.

ShaoLan Hsueh believes the Chinese language can work like Lego bricks, and created a visual system for mastering the basics.

In Chinese tradition, fish, carp especially, because they are believed to swim in pairs, symbolize marital companionship, fecundity and happiness in one's element.

The Survey on Foreigners' Perception of Chinese Culture was released Saturday in Beijing. It finds basic understanding of Chinese culture still lacking in major overseas countries.