UN Chinese Language Day, observed annually on April 20, shines a global spotlight on the elegance and historical significance of Chinese characters. With over 50,000 characters in the written language, each symbol carries layers of cultural meaning, from poetic references to ties with China's natural landscapes.
Rachel Weiss, an American expatriate living in the Chinese mainland, shared her passion for the character 山 (shān), meaning "mountain." "It reminds me of the ethereal peaks I’ve hiked here and their recurring presence in classical paintings and poetry," she said. The character’s simplified form mirrors the silhouette of jagged ridges, illustrating how written language intertwines with artistic expression.
Established by the UN to promote multilingualism, the day encourages appreciation for linguistic diversity. What's your favorite Chinese character? Share your story in the comments.
