Ask China: An anti-stereotype guide to knowing a fascinating country

A vlog about the elusive ground floor in Chongqing, China, sparked unexpected interest among English speakers. This got us at CGTN thinking: what aspects of our country truly intrigue you, our international audiences?

As it turns out, a vlogger's quest to find the "ground floor" in this unique city captured the imagination of many. The video, posted in November 2023 by a vlogger who goes by the name "Hugh Chongqing" on social media, showcased the surprising reality of Chongqing's multi-level streets, where the 22nd floor of one building might be adjacent to the street level of another!

This captivating quirk stems from Chongqing's mountainous terrain. What appears to be a flat street can be a tiny plateau on a towering slope. This geographical marvel is just one example of China's diverse landscape.

While Chongqing's multi-layered streets are fascinating, they are not representative of China as a whole. Vast plains dominate central China, where even a gentle incline is a rarity.

Encompassing one of the world's oldest civilizations and over 1.4 billion people, China defies easy categorization. Its sheer scale makes a single image impossible.

A tapestry of cultures and flavors

China's rich tapestry extends beyond geography. While stereotypes may paint us as homogenous, we are in fact home to 56 diverse ethnic groups. As winter blankets the northeastern city of Harbin, the southern beaches of Sanya buzz with vibrant celebrations.

How little do people know about China? We found this question on the internet: "Does China have cars?"

Food, too, sparks curiosity. While many yearn to discover the "ultimate" Chinese dish, our culinary landscape boasts eight distinct regional cuisines, each with its own unique flavors and traditions.

Ask China: your gateway to understanding

Intrigued by China's complexities? We're here to help! CGTN is launching "Ask China," a platform where you can get first-hand answers to your questions about our country.

Ask anything in the comments, or in social media platforms with the tag "#AskChina2024," and we'll connect you with experts, officials and everyday people who can provide insightful perspectives.

Let's bridge the gap and explore the wonders of China together!