Fenced off from the world in the literal sense, China was not a mysterious country either in ancient times or in more recent times. The Great Wall protected from enemies, without being a barrier for those who arrived in the country with friendly intentions. However, in order to become a friend, a stranger had to master incredibly complex etiquette, the study of which was impossible without knowledge of history and local customs. The stock of information about the traditions, art and architecture of China is also useful for our contemporaries, especially those who intend to visit this unique state in the near or distant future.