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Geography of China

The People's Republic of China is situated in eastern Asia on the western shore of the Pacific Ocean, with an area of 9.6 million square kilometers, and is the third-largest country in the world, next only to Russia and Canada. China's continental coastline extends for about 18,000 kilometers, and its vast sea surface is studded with more than 5,000 islands

China has many mountains, with mountainous areas (traditionally consisting of mountains, hills and rugged plateaus) making up two-thirds of its total land area.

China abounds in rivers. More than 1,500 rivers each drain 1,000 sq km or larger areas. Among the riverstotaling 220,000 kilometers in length in China, the Changjiang (Yangtze) and the Huanghe (Yellow) are world known.

Generally, its southern part (East China, South China and Southwest china) is warm, humid, and rainy; its northern part (North China, Northeast China, and northwest China) is dry and windy.

In spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) you will need a lined jacket or woolen sweater over light clothes.

In summer (June to August) cool cotton garments are recommended.

In winter (December to February) a light cotton-patted coat will keep you warm enough in the south; but in the north a heavy woolen coat or down parka is a must.

Late spring and late summer are often rainy especially in the southern part of China, so you would be wise to bring some rainwear with you. And of course goodwalking shoes are essential at any time of year.