10 essential Mandarin Chinese phrases for asking for directions
Navigate the bustling streets of China with confidence! Learn essential phrases to ask for directions and get where you need to go.

Getting lost in a new city is never fun, but knowing a few key phrases in Mandarin can turn a potentially frustrating experience into an adventure. Whether you're trying to find a specific landmark, a restaurant, or just your hotel, these phrases will help you communicate with locals. Don't be afraid to ask for help! Chinese people are generally very friendly and willing to assist travelers. Even a small effort to speak their language will be appreciated and will likely lead to more helpful responses. Practice these phrases before your trip, and you'll be navigating with ease in no time.
What this lesson covers
Core Chinese words for everyday conversation.
English meanings, pronunciation hints, and tap-to-hear audio.
A quick flashcard flow and quiz to make the words stick.
Start with these key words
Learn the first set, listen out loud, then move into the full list below.
Flashcards
Practice quiz
Full vocabulary list
Words 1–10
- 请问ching wenExcuse me / May I ask
- 厕所在哪里?tsuh-suo tsai nee-lee?Where is the restroom?
- 这个怎么去?zuh-guh tsuh-muh chü?How do I get to this place?
- 去[地名]怎么走?chü [dih-ming] tsuh-muh juht?How do I get to [place name]?
- 离这里远吗?lee jur-lee yüen mah?Is it far from here?
- 离这里近吗?lee jur-lee jeen mah?Is it close to here?
- 在左边tsai zuo-bianOn the left
- 在右边tsai yo-bianOn the right
- 往前走wong-chien johtGo straight ahead
- 请再说一遍ching tzai shwo ee-bianPlease say it again
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