Language

Mandarin is the official language of China, while Cantonese is also a common language in the region. Most hotels in the country have staff fluent in other languages, but English may only be reliably spoken by individuals in tourist facilities. It’s therefore recommended to have addresses or instructions written down in Chinese to show to taxi drivers. All major streets have signposts in pinyin (the Romanisation system for Chinese characters), which make it easier to get around with the help of a map.

Many people in China, especially young people, study English and welcome the opportunity to practise with foreigners. Don't be afraid to ask for directions in English from people on the street. You’ll usually be rewarded with a polite and often heroic attempt to help.

Reprinted from the website of the Hong Kong Tourism Board，click here.