Chinese guide

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.

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Words
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Flashcards + quiz

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

Card 1 / 10

Practice quiz

Question 1 / 8Score: 0
Translate
离这里近吗?

Full vocabulary list

Words 1–10
  • 请问
    ching wen
    Excuse 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-bian
    On the left
  • 在右边
    tsai yo-bian
    On the right
  • 往前走
    wong-chien joht
    Go straight ahead
  • 请再说一遍
    ching tzai shwo ee-bian
    Please say it again

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