Very interesting post, thanks for that.
Did you know that Baikal lake, which you was writing about is drying out? That's the sad thing. I do hope we will figure out some way to stop the climate change and save such a wonderful places like Baikal. It would be huge nature lost to loose it, not to mention how dangerous would it be for people. Like you said, it's 20% of fresh water supplies...
About huge countries, like Russia or China, which are bigger than Europe. Worth to mention that we used to think about it like about one big culture, but in fact it's full of different cultures, religions and traditions. Every single region in Russia is somehow like a separate country with fascinating traditions. I believe it's the same with China, although I'm not sure, as I've never been there.
Have a wonderful day!