Think you know Chinese? Step outside and the real learning begins. On China’s streets, walls speak. Shop signs shout for attention. Random graffiti? It might hold a cultural message or a warning you need to understand. Here we’ll break down the real-world language you’ll see everywhere in Chinese cities – and what these signs, notices, and tags really tell you.
Street Signs & Public Notices
- 禁止入内 (jìnzhǐ rùnèi) – “No Entry”
- 闲人免进 (xiánrén miǎnjìn) – “No Unauthorized Entry”
- 施工中 (shīgōng zhōng) – “Under Construction”
- 小心地滑 (xiǎoxīn dì huá) – “Caution: Slippery Floor”
- 注意台阶 (zhùyì táijiē) – “Watch Your Step”
- 高压危险 (gāoyā wēixiǎn) – “High Voltage Danger”
Graffiti & Street Art
1. 拆 (chāi) – “Demolish”
- What it means: This character marks buildings slated for demolition.
- Where you’ll see it: Painted on walls in older neighborhoods.
- Why it matters: If you see this, the area might disappear soon—great for urban photography before it’s gone!
2. 爱 (ài) – “Love”
- Variations:
- 爱生活 (ài shēnghuó) – “Love Life”
- 爱自由 (ài zìyóu) – “Love Freedom”
3. 到此一游 (dào cǐ yī yóu) – “I Was Here”
- What it is: The Chinese version of tagging.
Shop & Market Signs
1. 清仓大甩卖 (qīngcāng dà shuǎimài) – “Clearance Sale”
- Where you’ll see it: Discount stores, closing shops.
- Similar phrases:
- 全场五折 (quán chǎng wǔ zhé) – “50% Off Everything”
- 最后三天 (zuìhòu sān tiān) – “Last 3 Days!” (often a lie)
2. 24小时营业 (24 xiǎoshí yíngyè) – “Open 24 Hours”
- Common for: Convenience stores, some fast-food chains.
- Bonus: Look for 自助 (zìzhù) – “Self-Service” in laundromats or kiosks.
3. 本店转让 (běn diàn zhuǎnràng) – “For Lease”
- Meaning: The business is closing, and the space is for rent.
- Cultural insight: Many shops change quickly in China—this explains why some places disappear overnight.
Construction & Infrastructure Codes
1. 前方施工，请绕行 (qiánfāng shīgōng, qǐng ràoxíng) – “Construction Ahead, Detour”
- Where you’ll see it: Blocked sidewalks, roadwork.
- How to respond: Look for 绕行指示 (ràoxíng zhǐshì) – “Detour Signs.”
2. 危楼勿近 (wēi lóu wù jìn) – “Dangerous Building, Keep Away”
- Meaning: The structure is unstable.
- Similar warnings:
- 请勿靠近 (qǐng wù kàojìn) – “Do Not Approach”
Unlock the Secrets of China’s Streets with eChineseLearning!
The streets of China aren’t just places—they’re full of living language. Every painted character or posted sign is a chance to learn something new.
At eChineseLearning, we don’t just teach textbook Mandarin—we help you master the Chinese people actually use every day.· Learn to read signs, graffiti, and shop phrases like a native
· Practice real conversations based on what you see out in the world
· Get personalized one-on-one lessons—anytime, anywhere
At eChineseLearning, we don’t just teach textbook Mandarin—we help you master the Chinese people actually use every day.· Learn to read signs, graffiti, and shop phrases like a native
· Practice real conversations based on what you see out in the world
· Get personalized one-on-one lessons—anytime, anywhere
Book your free trial lesson and start understanding the real China—one street at a time.
Quiz: What does “内有监控” (nèi yǒu jiānkòng) mean?
A. Under construction
B. Surveillance cameras in operation
C. No entry permitted
D. Restroom available
B. Surveillance cameras in operation
C. No entry permitted
D. Restroom available
Answer: B