Book excerpt: China is the largest country in the world and the most populous. With 1.3 billion people, it is the third-largest nation in terms of size. It is the largest country by area, and has a rich culture and traditions. The official name of the country is the People's Republic of China. This is the country's most visited destination, so take some time to explore this unique country. The following facts about the country will help you get started with your research.