So, you’re planning a trip to China? ✨ Amazing! Whether you’re heading to Beijing’s Forbidden City, cruising the Bund in Shanghai, or bargaining at a street market in Guangzhou, one thing is certain: a few essential Mandarin phrases will make your journey smoother, more fun, and even unforgettable!
Don’t worry—you don’t need to be fluent to enjoy China. Just learning these 15 essential phrases will help you navigate, connect with locals, and feel more confident every step of the way!
✅ 你好! (Nǐ hǎo!) – Hello!
✅ 谢谢! (Xièxiè!) – Thank you!
✅ 不好意思 (Bù hǎo yìsi) – Excuse me/Sorry
✅ 请问 (Qǐng wèn) – May I ask…? (Perfect for polite interactions!)
Why learn these? A simple “你好” (Hello) can open doors—literally and figuratively! It shows respect and instantly makes your interactions more pleasant.
✅ 地铁站在哪里? (Dìtiě zhàn zài nǎlǐ?) – Where is the metro station?
✅ 请送我到这个地址 (Qǐng sòng wǒ dào zhège dìzhǐ) – Please take me to this address.
✅ 这里停! (Zhèlǐ tíng!) – Stop here!
✅ 多少钱? (Duōshǎo qián?) – How much does it cost?
Why learn these? China’s public transport system is fast and efficient, but knowing just a few key phrases will save you so much time and stress!
✅ 我要这个 (Wǒ yào zhège) – I want this. (Point and order confidently!)
✅ 有素食吗? (Yǒu sùshí ma?) – Do you have vegetarian food?
✅ 不辣 (Bù là) – Not spicy! (A lifesaver if you can’t handle heat!)
Why learn these? Chinese food is legendary, and with these phrases, you can enjoy it like a local without worrying about misunderstandings!
✅ 可以便宜一点吗? (Kěyǐ piányí yīdiǎn ma?) – Can you make it cheaper?
✅ 太贵了! (Tài guì le!) – Too expensive!
Why learn these? Bargaining is a fun part of shopping in China, especially in street markets.
With confidence and a smile, you’ll get the best deals!
✅ 我需要帮助! (Wǒ xūyào bāngzhù!) – I need help!
✅ 最近的医院在哪里? (Zuìjìn de yīyuàn zài nǎlǐ?) – Where is the nearest hospital?
Why learn these? Hopefully, you won’t need them, but it’s always good to be prepared! Safety first.
With just these 15 phrases, you’ll be way ahead of most tourists and feel much more at ease navigating China. Locals appreciate it when foreigners try Mandarin, even if it’s just a few words—it shows respect and effort. Plus, the smiles and warm responses you’ll receive? Totally
worth it!
Want to learn more? Join our Mandarin Travel Course and feel 100% prepared for your trip!
Excited about your China trip?
