Rooted in millennia of history but moving to the contemporary beat of globalization, Chinese society is marked both by tradition and rapid change. The urban bustle of cities like Shanghai and Beijing; the Great Wall of China and temples to Confucius; rice balls, ramen, and chopsticks; the Lantern Festival, tai chi, and ping pong-China's new and old worlds are both celebrated in this volume on the country's customs and culture. Covering history and...

While ever-changing and modernizing, Japan stays true to its roots. It has an ancient Asian culture at the forefront of today's globalizing world. The delicacy and simplicity of haiku and ink-wash paintings; the serenity of the traditional tea ceremony; the bustling city of Tokyo; the hyper-sleek modernism of bullet trains-these cultural icons and more are celebrated in this volume on Japan's customs and culture. Covering history and religion; family...

This volume explores Italy's customs and culture.

This volume explores South Africa's customs and culture.

Indigenous peoples, British settlers, recent immigrant groups: Australia's past-along with the vast continent it occupies-gives the country its unique character. The astounding beauty of the Great Barrier Reef; the Outback still home to many aborigines; the native instrument called the didgeridoo; world-class cities such as Melbourne and Sydney-these highlights and more are celebrated in this volume on Australia's customs and culture. Covering history...

Its indigenous peoples, African influences, and colonial history give Brazil a unique cultural flare. The subtle flavors of Bahia and the robust pleasures of barbecue; the gritty favelas of Rio and the sandy beaches of Copacabana; samba music and Carnival celebrations-these sites, sounds, and traditions are all celebrated in this volume on Brazil's customs and culture. Covering history and religion; family and friends; food and drink; school and work;...