Chinese surnames, or xing, are an essential part of Chinese culture and identity. They typically consist of one character, though some families may have two-character surnames. The most common surnames include Li, Wang, and Zhang, with a history that dates back thousands of years. Surnames in China often reflect lineage and ancestry, with many families tracing their roots to ancient clans. Traditionally, the family name is placed before the given name, emphasizing the importance of family over the individual. This practice highlights the significance of familial connections in Chinese society.