Start with tones and numbers
Mandarin has four tones; wrong tones can change meaning. Learn numbers 1–10, “how much”, “where” and “thank you” first. Locals appreciate any attempt; a translation app fills the gaps.
Core phrases
- 你好 (nǐ hǎo) — hello
- 谢谢 (xièxie) — thank you
- 多少钱? (duōshao qián?) — how much?
- 在哪里? (zài nǎli?) — where is it?
- 不要辣 (bú yào là) — not spicy
- 买单 (mǎidān) — bill
- 帮帮我 (bāngbang wǒ) — help me
- 我不会说中文 (wǒ bú huì shuō Zhōngwén) — I don’t speak Chinese
Show, don’t just say
Keep a note with your hotel address, allergy/diet phrases and “please take me to this address” in Chinese. Show it to the driver or staff. For emergencies, call 110/120 and use the translation app or ask a bystander to help.
Reality check
Locals appreciate the attempt more than the tone; a translation app covers the rest.
Local tip: Learn numbers, “how much”, “where” and “thank you” first.
Step by step
- Learn numbers and tones.
- Save key phrases offline.
- Write hotel address in Chinese.
- Use camera translation for menus/signs.
- Speak slowly and show the text.
- Thank people; don’t worry about perfection.
Typical costs
| Item | Cost / note |
|---|---|
| Language app | Free/paid |
| Translation device | Optional |
Prices are indicative and change. Confirm with the official provider before paying.
Documents to prepare
- Offline phrasebook
- Hotel address card
Common mistakes
- Relying only on English
- Ignoring tones entirely
- Not showing the written Chinese
- Being embarrassed to try
If things go wrong
- If you are misunderstood, show the written Chinese.
- In an emergency, call 110/120 and ask a bystander to speak to the operator.
FAQ
Do Chinese people speak English?
Younger people in big cities often do; outside tourist areas, less so. Translation apps are essential.
Is Mandarin the only language?
There are many dialects, but Mandarin is the common written/standard language. Cantonese is common in Guangdong/Hong Kong.
Daily life: the field guide
Daily life in China runs on a few apps, a handful of phrases and an understanding of small social rules. You do not need fluent Chinese to be treated well; you need to make an effort.
Language and names
Learn numbers, “how much”, “where”, “thank you” and “I don’t speak Chinese”. Use a translation app for the rest. Chinese names put the surname first; use surname + title until invited otherwise. A bilingual business card and a WeChat QR make introductions easier.
WeChat and groups
WeChat is the default messaging app and a gateway to mini-programs for taxis, food and tickets. Verify your account early, use two-factor authentication and never buy a “verified” account. Groups are useful but can spread scams; do not share passport photos, bank details or verification codes.
Everyday etiquette
Queue in the marked line, stand on the right of escalators, and let passengers off the metro first. At meals, wait for the host to start and do not stick chopsticks upright in rice. Bargaining is for markets, not supermarkets. Tipping is not expected.
Quick checks
- Offline phrasebook and translation app
- WeChat verified with 2FA
- Bilingual card/QR ready
- Hotel address in Chinese
- Numbers and basic phrases practised
Printable checklist
Print this page or save it as a PDF. Tick each item before you go.
- Offline phrasebook
- Hotel address card
- Learn numbers and tones.
- Save key phrases offline.
- Write hotel address in Chinese.
- Use camera translation for menus/signs.
- Speak slowly and show the text.
- Thank people; don’t worry about perfection.
This guide is a practical summary, not an official or legal document. Rules and prices change. Use the official links below, and confirm with the relevant authority or a qualified professional.
Last verified 2026-10-29. China Handbook is independent and not affiliated with any government. Information is provided for general guidance only.