East and Southeast Asia Culture Quiz

Which religion was first introduced to China from India?

• Islam

• Buddhism

• Christianity

• Taoism

Answer explanation

Buddhism was the first religion introduced to China from India, arriving during the Han Dynasty around the 1st century CE. It significantly influenced Chinese culture, philosophy, and spirituality.

What is the primary reason most people in the Philippines are Catholic?

• Personal choice

• Spanish colonization

• Missionary work

• Government mandate

Answer explanation

The primary reason most people in the Philippines are Catholic is due to Spanish colonization, which introduced Catholicism as the dominant religion during the 16th century, shaping the country's cultural and religious landscape.

Which sport is considered the national sport of Japan?

• Baseball

• Karate

• Sumo wrestling

• Soccer

Answer explanation

Sumo wrestling is considered Japan's national sport due to its deep cultural significance and historical roots in Japanese tradition, making it the correct answer over other options like baseball and karate.

What cooking technique originated in China involving quick cooking over high heat?

• Boiling

• Steaming

• Stir-frying

• Roasting

Answer explanation

Stir-frying is a cooking technique that originated in China, characterized by quickly cooking food over high heat in a small amount of oil. This method allows for rapid cooking while preserving the texture and flavor of the ingredients.

What is the primary purpose of the Terracotta Army sculptures?

• Decoration

• Protecting the emperor in the afterlife

• Military training

• Religious ceremony

Answer explanation

The primary purpose of the Terracotta Army sculptures is to protect the emperor in the afterlife. They were created to accompany and defend him in his journey after death, reflecting the beliefs of ancient Chinese culture.

Which art form involves folding paper into sculptures without cutting or gluing?

• Calligraphy

• Origami

• Anime

• Haiku

Answer explanation

The art form that involves folding paper into sculptures without cutting or gluing is called Origami. It is distinct from other forms like calligraphy, anime, and haiku, which do not focus on paper folding.

What musical genre originated in South Korea?

• Jazz

• Classical

• K-pop

• Country

Answer explanation

K-pop, short for Korean pop, is a musical genre that originated in South Korea, blending various styles and often characterized by its catchy melodies and vibrant performances. It has gained global popularity in recent years.

Which religion teaches respect towards the elderly?

• Buddhism

• Confucianism

• Taoism

• Islam

Answer explanation

Confucianism emphasizes filial piety, which is the respect and care for one's elders. This principle is central to Confucian teachings, making it the correct answer for the religion that teaches respect towards the elderly.

In traditional rural China, who was typically preferred to inherit family property?

• Daughters

• Male children

• Eldest child

• Youngest child

Answer explanation

In traditional rural China, male children were typically preferred to inherit family property due to cultural norms favoring patrilineal succession, ensuring the continuation of the family lineage.

Which country was the first to develop gunpowder?

• Japan

• Korea

• China

• India

Answer explanation

China was the first country to develop gunpowder, with its origins traced back to the 9th century during the Tang Dynasty. This invention significantly influenced warfare and technology worldwide.