Takeaway Chinese

If you packed your bags and moved across the world today, what kind of life would you want to build? Forget what you read in the headlines. In My China Story, a special new interview series from the Takeaway Chinese podcast, we sit down with vloggers, founders, artists, and explorers who made the leap to build their lives and careers in China. From navigating midnight yexiao runs to breaking into high-tech innovation, creative arts, and unexpected professions — these are the candid, personal journeys behind the language. Whether you are honing your Mandarin skills, gearing up to study abroad, launching a cr...

What's your ideal road trip? Mountains? Beaches? Small towns? Or just driving until you find something interesting? In this episode of Takeaway Chinese, we're hitting the road and learning some useful Chinese along the way! Learn how to talk about road trips, driving, and cars in Chinese. Take a listen! On the show: Fei Fei & Steve. (05:50) What is China's "golden outer ring"? (07:44) Useful vocabulary for road trips.

The Mid-Autumn Festival is just around the corner! In this episode of Takeaway Chinese, we're talking about some of the most important traditions of this beloved Chinese festival – from enjoying the full moon to sharing delicious mooncakes. Learn some useful Chinese along the way and celebrate with us! On the show: Fei Fei & Steve. (01:23) The full moon, family reunion & mooncakes (05:36) How mooncakes are made: classic fillings & new flavors (13:39) Traditional or modern? The great mooncake debate: sweet vs. savory, the most controversial filling, regional eating habits, and reinventing traditional foods.

In this special episode of Takeaway Chinese, we're going to learn how to say "difficult situation" in Chinese.

困境 kùn jìng

In this special episode of Takeaway Chinese, we're going to learn how to say "stage" in Chinese.

阶段 jiē duàn

If you had one week to travel anywhere in China, where would you go – and how would you plan it? In this episode of Takeaway Chinese, we're talking about dream trips, travel styles, and how to plan the perfect getaway – all while learning useful Chinese expressions you can use along the way! On the show: Fei Fei & Steve. (00:40) Useful vocabulary related to traveling. (05:43) A high-intensity, ultra-efficient style of travel: "special forces-style traveling."

In this special episode of Takeaway Chinese, we're going to learn how to say "satisfy" in Chinese.

满足 mǎn zú

In this special episode of Takeaway Chinese, we're going to learn how to say "polish" in Chinese.

润色 rùn sè

September 10 marks Teachers' Day in China. In this episode, we take a closer look at the traditional role of teachers in Chinese history, explore how the word "师父 (shī fu, master)" reflects the traditional idea of a teacher as a father figure, and look at how family terms are still commonly used to address people outside the family in Chinese society today. On the show: Fei Fei & Steve. (00:59) How teachers were addressed in the past and today. (10:00) How do Chinese people address each other?

In this special episode of Takeaway Chinese, we're going to learn how to say "patience" in Chinese.

patience 耐心 nài xīn

In this special episode of Takeaway Chinese, we're going to learn how to say "be proficient in" in Chinese.

Can you believe summer is almost over? For students across China, that means one thing: it's back-to-school time! September 1 is traditionally the big day when students return to classrooms for a brand-new school year. So, how do students in China usually prepare for the new school year? Tune in and find out! On the show: Fei Fei & Steve (01:28) Useful Chinese words for school supplies (08:09) 包书皮 (bāo shū pí) – wrapping book covers, a classic back-to-school ritual in China!

In this special episode of Takeaway Chinese, we're going to learn how to say "just" in Chinese.

In this special episode of Takeaway Chinese, we're going to learn how to say "sunset glow" in Chinese.

The second World Humanoid Robot Games is underway! In this episode of Takeaway Chinese, we explore some of the exciting ways robots are being used in everyday life and learn some essential Chinese vocabulary related to robotics. Join Fei Fei and Steve for a fun and practical language lesson! (02:55) Essential Chinese words related to robots. (10:44) If you had a robot, what job would you want it to do for you?

In this special episode of Takeaway Chinese, we're going to learn how to say "tree shade" in Chinese.

In this special episode of Takeaway Chinese, we're going to learn how to say "celery" in Chinese.

Love is universal — but the way we express it can be very different. With Chinese Valentine's Day, Qixi Festival, just around the corner, this episode of Takeaway Chinese takes you into the language and culture of love in China. Tune in now! (07:00) Learn Chinese expressions related to love. (14:30) Why would you want to avoid "scatter dog food"? What does it actually mean?

In this special episode of Takeaway Chinese, we're going to learn how to say "high-end" in Chinese.

Some trips give you great photos. Others teach you a lifelong skill. Welcome to The China Code, where every two weeks we break down a trending Chinese internet buzzword. Today's phrase: 进修式旅行 (jìn xiū shì lǚ xíng). Across China, more travelers are choosing trips built around learning – from making pottery to trying traditional crafts and meeting local artisans. It's called 进修式旅行, or learning-focused travel. Why is this way of traveling becoming so popular? Let's dive in. CONTACT THE TEAM We'd love to hear your feedback or suggestions for future buzzwords! Email: crilearnchinese@gmail.com Facebook: @crilearnchinese TikTok: @takeaway.chinese

Traveling through China can be more than ticking famous landmarks off your list! You can watch Sichuan Opera performers change faces in the blink of an eye, or even learn a few acrobatics moves to impress your friends…

In this episode of Takeaway Chinese, we explore China's intangible cultural heritage through traveling — and pick up some useful Chinese words and expressions along the way!

Watch the full episode and travel beyond the tourist trail.

What if your next trip to China could take you beyond the usual tourist attractions? From watching a jaw-dropping face-changing performance and mastering traditional acrobatics in Wuqiao County — China's intangible cultural heritage is becoming an experience you can actually take part in! On the show: Fei Fei & Steve. (02:30) The magic of face-changing. (09:28) Discover Chinese acrobatics. (18:33) Enjoy Qinhuai Lantern Festival.

In this special episode of Takeaway Chinese, we're going to learn how to say "peak" in Chinese.

In this special episode of Takeaway Chinese, we're going to learn how to say "nonsense" in Chinese.

Pickleball, paddle boarding, frisbee, rock climbing... China's sports scene is evolving fast! In this episode of Takeaway Chinese, we're exploring the exciting world of trendy and emerging sports in China. Along the way, you'll learn practical Chinese words and expressions related to fitness, competition, and staying active! (00:35) Essential sports vocabulary. (13:46) Exploring China's popular water sports.

In this special episode of Takeaway Chinese, we're going to learn how to say "avoid certain foods" in Chinese.

What if the best feeling wasn't buying more... but owing nothing? Welcome to The China Code, where every two weeks we break down a trending Chinese internet buzzword. Today's phrase: 零负债青年 (líng fù zhài qīng nián). A growing number of young people in China are choosing a different lifestyle: 零负债青年 (líng fù zhài qīng nián) – "zero-debt youth." They choose to spend only what they have and avoid unnecessary financial and emotional burdens. Could this be a healthier way to live? Let's dive in. CONTACT THE TEAM We'd love to hear your feedback or suggestions for future buzzwords! Email: cr...

Imagine a city dedicated to the pursuit of one art: porcelain. That is Jingdezhen. In this episode of Takeaway Chinese, we introduce you to the history and legacy of Jingdezhen and Chinese porcelain, as well as today's story of the city. Tune in now and discover why this small city remains the heart of the ceramic world. (02:50) Essential vocabulary related to porcelain. (07:38) The history of Jingdezhen.

In this special episode of Takeaway Chinese, we're going to learn how to say "knows quality" in Chinese.

In this special episode of Takeaway Chinese, we're going to learn how to say "nail it" in Chinese.

Many parts of the world are currently experiencing record heatwaves. In this episode of Takeaway Chinese, let's learn how to describe the scorching sun in Mandarin and talk about fun ways to help you cool down. On the show: Fei Fei & Steve. (01:57) Essential vocabulary related to summer heat. (12:24) How do you avoid the scorching sun?

In this special episode of Takeaway Chinese, we're going to learn how to say "socially anxious" in Chinese.

When was the last time you gave your brain a mental cleanse? Welcome to The China Code, where every two weeks we break down a trending Chinese internet buzzword. Today's phrase: 用脑卫生 (yòng nǎo wèi shēng). It is the latest wellness trend taking off among young people in China – keeping your mind from feeling constantly overwhelmed. So what exactly is making our heads feel so crowded? Let's dive in. CONTACT THE TEAM We'd love to hear your feedback or suggestions for future buzzwords! Email: crilearnchinese@gmail.com Facebook: @crilearnchinese TikTok: @takeaway.chinese

What does the ideal home look like to you? In this episode of Takeaway Chinese, we explore how different countries define a "good house" through the lenses of climate, lifestyle, culture, and technology. And here in China - what does the concept of 好房子 (hǎo fángzi, good house) really mean in today's rapidly evolving urban landscape? Tune in now to find out! (03:02) Climate shapes architecture. (16:26) My dream house. (26:08) Chinese perspectives on the ideal home.

In this special episode of Takeaway Chinese, we're going to learn how to say "healing" in Chinese.

In this special episode of Takeaway Chinese, we're going to learn how to say "excited about" in Chinese.

Some of China's fastest-growing jobs didn't even exist a few years ago. With job-hunting season in full swing, we're taking a look at the country's newest professions, what they do, and the Chinese expressions every job seeker should know. (04:28) Job-hunting vocabulary. (08:43) New professions in China.

In this special episode of Takeaway Chinese, we're going to learn how to say "contrast" in Chinese.

On the Mic Today: 显化 (xiǎn huà) – Manifesting Ever noticed how people talk like their future has already happened? On the Chinese internet, there's a word for this: 显化 (xiǎn huà) – the idea of turning your thoughts into reality. But here's the interesting part: when people practice "manifesting," something very real may actually be happening beneath the surface. So why does this "delulu with confidence" mindset sometimes seem to work? Let's dive in. This is the "The China Code," where every two weeks we break down a trending Chinese internet buzzword. We'd love to hear your thoughts! Have you ever successfully "ma...

Did you know China is home to 56 ethnic groups, each with its own unique traditions? Tune in to learn why the pomegranate is a symbol of ethnic unity in China and discover the vibrant festivals celebrated by the country's ethnic groups. (09:30) Experience the excitement of the Mongolian Naadam Festival, featuring wrestling, horse racing, and archery. (17:00) Discover the colorful celebrations of the Miao New Year.