The largest and most populated country in the world is China, with a population of over 1.4 billion people. It covers an area of 9,596,960 square kilometers (3,705,407 square miles) and is the world’s third-largest country by total area. It is made up of 22 provinces, five autonomous regions, four direct-controlled municipalities, and two specially administered regions. The capital of China is Beijing, and its official language is Standard Chinese (Mandarin).
China has a long history, with some historians believing human activity in the area dates back over two million years. It has been an influential cultural force in East Asia for centuries, influencing art, architecture, literature, technology, and religion. It is a major economic power, with a gross domestic product (GDP) of more than $14 trillion in 2019. China is also home to many iconic landmarks, from the Great Wall of China to terracotta warriors and pandas. As one of the most populous countries on earth, it has a vibrant and diverse culture, cuisine, and history.