At least 200 embassy officials from more than 70 countries gathered recently at the opening of the 2011 Friendship Communication of Ambassadors and Madams on Knowing Chinese Culture, for a primer on traditional Chinese healthcare practices.

Sponsored by the Chinese People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries, this annual event is aimed at enhancing an understanding of Chinese culture among diplomats. It was first held in 2002.

From Sept 15-18, diplomats from 20 to 30 countries were invited to travel to Wendeng, Shandong province, a city known for its hot springs, to experience the therapeutic properties of natural mineral waters.