Chinese cooking questions?

Can you answer asf94′s question about Ginseng?:

1.are there any geographical features that impact on the cuisine(eg location, climate or variation of regions)

2. customs and rituals in china (eg religion, celebrations and festivals)

3. what are some typical foods used in chinese cooking ( herbs and spices etc)

4. are there any strange equipment used when cooking and eating? (eg, cooking equipment and utensils)

thanks in advance xxxx
10 points for best answer

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