Quick Answer
The essential Mandarin phrases for travelling China — greetings, ordering, directions and emergencies — with simple pinyin you can actually use.
Why it matters
Most travellers get by with a translation app, photos of menus, and a handful of phrases. Keep your hotel's name and address saved in Chinese, and don't worry about tones — context and a smile go a long way. For a totally smooth trip, a private guide handles the language for you.
TL;DR (Quick Answer)
- Hello: Nǐ hǎo (knee-how).
- Thank you: Xièxie (sshyeh-sshyeh).
- How much?: Duōshǎo qián? (dwor-shaow chyen).
- Travel hassle-free with an English-speaking guide on a guided itinerary.
Greetings & Politeness
- Hello — Nǐ hǎo (你好)
- Thank you — Xièxie (谢谢)
- You're welcome — Bú kèqi (不客气)
- Sorry / excuse me — Duìbuqǐ (对不起)
- Goodbye — Zàijiàn (再见)
Eating & Shopping
- How much is it? — Duōshǎo qián? (多少钱)
- The bill, please — Mǎidān (买单)
- Delicious — Hǎochī (好吃)
- I don't eat… — Wǒ bù chī… (我不吃…)
- Not spicy, please — Bú yào là (不要辣)
Getting Around
- Where is…? — …zài nǎlǐ? (…在哪里)
- Toilet — Cèsuǒ (厕所)
- Train station — Huǒchēzhàn (火车站)
- Airport — Jīchǎng (机场)
- Take me to this address — show it written in Chinese on your phone.
Helpful Habits
Most travellers get by with a translation app, photos of menus, and a handful of phrases. Keep your hotel's name and address saved in Chinese, and don't worry about tones — context and a smile go a long way. For a totally smooth trip, a private guide handles the language for you.
Travel Without the Language Barrier
Our guided itineraries include English-speaking guides, so you can relax and enjoy. Take the quiz to find your route.
FAQ
Do I need to speak Mandarin to travel in China?
No. A few basic phrases, a translation app and photos of menus go a long way, and a private guide removes the language barrier entirely.
What are the most useful Chinese phrases for tourists?
Nǐ hǎo (hello), Xièxie (thank you), Duōshǎo qián? (how much?), Cèsuǒ (toilet) and Bú yào là (not spicy) cover most everyday needs.
Is English widely spoken in China?
English is limited outside major hotels and tourist sites, so translation apps or a guide are very helpful for getting around.
