Survival Cards
Saveable China travel phrase cards with Chinese characters, pinyin pronunciation, and English meaning for common communication problems.
Save these cards as screenshots before your trip. Show the Chinese line when a translation app, app chat, or spoken English is not enough.
How to use these cards: show one card at a time. One clear sentence is usually better than a long translated paragraph.
Taxi or ride-hailing pickup
English: I am a foreign visitor. I am waiting at this location. Could you please call or message me in the app?
Chinese: 我是外国游客，正在这个位置等您。请您通过软件给我打电话或发消息。
Hotel address
English: Please take me to this hotel. The address is below.
Chinese: 请带我去这家酒店，地址在下面。
Payment problem
English: My mobile payment is not working. Can I pay by cash or bank card?
Chinese: 我的手机支付暂时不能用。可以用现金或银行卡支付吗？
Restaurant allergy
English: I have a food allergy. Please help me check whether this dish contains this ingredient.
Chinese: 我有食物过敏。请帮我确认这道菜里是否含有这个食材。
Need help
English: I need help. Could you please help me contact my hotel or the police?
Chinese: 我需要帮助。请帮我联系酒店或报警。
FAQ
Should I translate a whole explanation into Chinese?
No. In a stressful moment, short sentences work better. Show the exact sentence that matches the situation.
Can I customize these cards?
Yes. Add your hotel name, address, allergy ingredient, or phone number. Keep the Chinese short and simple.