I wouldnt worry about it, the Chinese are just EXTREMELY proud and china-centric of their culture and country.
Anything which is percieved to threaten this outlook on the world and general poor take on reality can be met with offense.
Dont let it get to you, many chinese folk are quite normal and willing to accept points of view that may differ.

If its still confusing you Minty just remember that buddhism came from india aswell, yet its belief there pales in comparison to the other religions on hindu, islam, and sikhism.