China. the Middle Empire, at the dawn of the twenty-first century, is a veritable Titan and all eyes are turned on it. With its history stretching back thousands of years, the largest population on earth and a culture as rich as it is varied, China has become the lynchpin of a rapidly-developing Asia. The Great Wall and the Forbidden City stand in total contrast to the modern skyscrapers which are shooting up higgledy-piggledy in all the major cities of the country. Ancient sciences and arts such as calligraphy, ceramics, traditional medicine or even opera retain an important place within Chinese culture. But let’s not forget the local gastronomy - as varied as are the regions of the country (Shanghai, Szechuan or Canton) - that has captivated the world and scales new heights of perfection on home soil.