There's no getting around the fact that learning Chinese is a challenging task with few shortcuts. But there are tools available that make it slightly easier! Over the past decade of language learning in China, these have been my favorite tools for learning Chinese that make it both fun and (slightly!) easier. You may not be fluent, but during your travels throughout China you're going to … [Read more...] about My Top 5 Favorite Tools for Learning Chinese in 2026
Chinese Language Tips & Articles from TravelChinaCheaper
If you're learning the Chinese language (also known as Mandarin), you're going to find these articles from the TravelChinaCheaper archive extremely useful!
How to Find an Online Mandarin Tutor in 2026 (and is it worth it?)
What is the best way to find a good online Chinese tutor in 2026? Whether you're learning Chinese in China or in your home country, by far the fastest way to improve your listening and speaking is through a 1-on-1 tutor. The problem is that it's not always easy to find a quality Chinese tutor. Here's a look at my personal experience with an online tutor for learning Mandarin Chinese. For … [Read more...] about How to Find an Online Mandarin Tutor in 2026 (and is it worth it?)
Learn to Read Chinese & Enjoy It? (2026 Chairman’s Bao Review)
If you've ever tried to learn to read Chinese characters, you know how frustrating it can be! Is it even possible without wanting to pull your hair out? Thankfully, with the help of what's known as "graded readers", it can actually be fun. As I introduce to you not only physical books, but also a review of Chairman's Bao, you'll see how. If you are like me, you have spent hours upon hours … [Read more...] about Learn to Read Chinese & Enjoy It? (2026 Chairman’s Bao Review)
Best Chinese Podcasts to Learn Chinese in 2026 (both free & premium)
Podcasts are my favorite way to consume content. If you’re anything like me, you’ve subscribed to a number of awesome podcasts that inform, teach and entertain. But what about learning Chinese? Are there good podcasts to learn Chinese? Listening to the Chinese language as you’re trying to learn is as important as writing, reading, and speaking in that language. It takes time to learn … [Read more...] about Best Chinese Podcasts to Learn Chinese in 2026 (both free & premium)
Best Translation App for China: Apps for Travelers & Expats in 2026
What are the best voice translation apps for China travelers? Perhaps you’re not an omniglot who can speak multiple languages fluently. Maybe you’re a bit worried about traveling around China without speaking Chinese. Many of us have those feelings when we travel abroad and now thanks to mobile devices, it’s possible to use a good translation app while traveling in China. It’s important to … [Read more...] about Best Translation App for China: Apps for Travelers & Expats in 2026
Learn to Read Chinese | 21 Amazing Tools for 2026 (Free & Paid)
Learning to read Chinese seems like an impossible task at first. I remember first seeing Chinese characters and thinking "Am I really going to learn to make sense of this?!" It takes hard work but I'm living proof that yes...yes, you can! I've learned that the whole process can be much easier with the right tools, which is why I'd like to share my favorite tools for learning to read … [Read more...] about Learn to Read Chinese | 21 Amazing Tools for 2026 (Free & Paid)