Languages in China

Standard Chinese, or Mandarin, as called in some part of the western countries, is the universal language of the country. The modern language of Chinese has evolved through the history. The first emperor of China, Emperor Qinshihuang of Qin Dynasty, united the Chinese written language in 500 BC, but historically and geographically diverse regions maintained their local dialects. Until today, there are numerous dialects in China such as Cantonese, Suzhou or Fukienese dialects.

The Chinese characters, the written form of Chinese language, had their origin dated back thousands of years ago. The earliest writing scripts of Chinese characters were found in oracle bone inscriptions of 6000 years ago.
(Shown: Oracle Bone Inscriptions)

Most of China’s 55 minorities speak their own languages and about 30 of them have their own written languages.

The handwriting expressions of Chinese characters have developed into a major art form from ancient China - the Chinese Calligraphy. 
 

Please read the introduction of Chinese Art on ChinaDreamInn.com for more information on this unique art form of China which influenced throughout East Asian countries in history.