Great Wall, 'most recognizable' Chinese cultural symbol

A survey has revealed that the Great Wall is the "most recognizable" Chinese cultural symbol.

Bamboo and "harmony" came next in the list of Chinese symbols best known by people outside the country, according to a report released Sunday by Beijing Institute of Culture Innovation and Communication.

The report on how foreign people know China picked 18 Chinese symbols spanning figures, philosophy concepts and art, among others. The symbols include baijiu, a clear liquor made from sorghum or other grains, Kunqu opera, and retired tennis superstar Li Na.

The survey was conducted among 3,134 respondents aged between 18 and 44 from 10 countries including Britain, France, the US, Japan, Germany, Russia, Turkey and South Africa.

Chinese cultural symbols are becoming more and more familiar to people around the world, said the report, adding that young people, especially, showed great interest in Chinese culture.

Travel and communication are excellent ways to be exposed to Chinese culture, according to the respondents, who added that the Internet, TV and families or friends had introduced them to Chinese culture, said the report.