✈️ 10 Essential Mandarin Sentences Every Traveler Needs in Shanghai (and China)
Traveling in China can be exciting—and a little overwhelming—if you don’t speak the language. But with just a few key Mandarin phrases, you can make your journey smoother and more enjoyable. Whether you’re shopping in a market, ordering noodles in a local eatery, or just trying to find the nearest subway station, these 10 useful sentences will help you connect with locals and get what you need:
🚻洗手间在哪里？ (Xǐshǒujiān zài nǎlǐ?) – Where is the bathroom?
A lifesaver in malls, restaurants, or tourist areas.
💰这个多少钱？ (Zhège duōshǎo qián?) – How much is this?
Essential when shopping in markets or small stores.
💰可以现金吗？ (Kěyǐ xiànjīn ma?) – Can I pay with cash?
Especially useful since many places now prefer digital payments.
📱支付宝还是微信？ (Zhīfùbǎo háishì Wēixìn?) – Alipay or WeChat?
Ask this to check what digital payment method they accept.
🏮你有英文菜单吗？ (Nǐ yǒu yīngwén càidān ma?) – Do you have an English menu?
This makes ordering in restaurants much easier.
🚇地铁站在哪里？ (Dìtiě zhàn zài nǎlǐ?) – Where is the subway station?
Useful when exploring big cities like Shanghai or Beijing.
🏨附近有超市吗？ (Fùjìn yǒu chāoshì ma?) – Is there a supermarket nearby?
Perfect for picking up snacks, water, or essentials.
🍜我要一碗面条。 (Wǒ yào yī wǎn miàntiáo.) – I’d like a bowl of noodles.
A comforting and classic Chinese dish.
☕️我要一杯冰咖啡。 (Wǒ yào yī bēi bīng kāfēi.) – I’d like an iced coffee.
Great for travelers looking for a caffeine fix in summer.
💬你可以说英语吗？ (Nǐ kěyǐ shuō Yīngyǔ ma?) – Can you speak English?
Use this politely before switching to English or using a translator.
💡 “In China, mobile payment is king! Even street food vendors use QR codes. Download Alipay or WeChat Pay in advance.”
🧭 Quick Travel Tips for Exploring Shanghai
APP - dianping ( means review)
1. Download Alipay (支付宝)
With Alipay, your entire trip becomes smoother. You can easily rent shared bikes, take the metro, buses, and ferry, and pay at shops, restaurants, and street vendors—all from one app. It’s the digital wallet of China!
2. Try Dianping (大众点评)
Dianping is China’s top local guide app. Think of it as the Yelp + Groupon of China! Find the best restaurants, cafes, entertainment spots, and discounted ticket packages. Pro tip: link it with your Alipay account to unlock deals, such as set menus at local restaurants—at unbeatable prices.
3. Don’t Miss Old Shanghai!
Beyond the skyscrapers and malls, Shanghai still hides many old streets, houses, and time-honored restaurants. Wander through lanes (弄堂 nòngtáng), sip soy milk in a local breakfast shop, and feel the soul of the city where history and modern life blend together.
