The suanpan is a traditional Chinese abacus used for arithmetic calculations. It typically consists of a rectangular frame with rods that hold beads, which can be moved up and down to represent numbers. Each rod usually has two beads above a horizontal bar and five beads below it, allowing for both addition and subtraction. This ancient calculating tool has been used for centuries in China and other East Asian countries. The suanpan is not only a practical device for performing calculations but also serves as a symbol of Chinese culture and history, reflecting the importance of mathematics in daily life.