Ancient Chinese kitchens were renowned for their meticulous organization and attention to detail, including the incorporation of built-in spice racks. Chinese cuisine relies heavily on the use of spices and herbs to create complex flavors. The kitchens of ancient China featured built-in spice racks with multiple tiers and compartments to store a wide range of spices like star anise, Sichuan peppercorns, and ginger. These spice racks were often beautifully crafted and displayed, reflecting the importance of spices in Chinese culinary traditions.