Guangzhou Field Notes: Language, Basic Words & Local Tips

Guangzhou is an open and friendly city that welcomes visitors from all over the world. However, if this is your first time visiting, here are a few practical facts about day-to-day life here:

1. Language on the Street

Staff at major international hotels and airport international counters usually speak English. However, on the street—including taxi drivers, subway staff, convenience stores, and neighborhood restaurants—people primarily speak Cantonese and Mandarin.

Locals are generally polite and willing to help, but having a working translation app and proper digital map on your phone will make getting around much simpler.

2. Six Useful Chinese Words to Recognize

You do not need to speak Chinese, but recognizing these six common phrases on signs and tables can be very helpful:

3. Local Dining Set-Meals & Vouchers

In China, many restaurants, dim sum teahouses, and hotpot spots offer discounted set meals and dining vouchers (called Tuangou / 团购) through domestic apps.

Locals frequently use these packages for daily dining. However, because these interfaces are entirely in Chinese and require domestic payment linking, international visitors usually order from the regular printed menu and pay standard prices. During our setup walkthrough, I can show you how these set-meal vouchers work so you can use them easily during your stay.

4. Cantonese Dim Sum (Yum Cha) Customs

• Rinsing the Tableware: When seated, a bowl with hot tea or boiled water is provided. It is local custom to rinse your teacup, bowl, and chopsticks in the bowl before eating.
• Finger-Tapping: When someone pours tea for you, gently tapping two fingers on the table twice is a traditional silent way of saying "Thank you".
• Tea Refill: When your teapot needs hot water, leave the lid slightly open or tilted on the rim. The waiter will notice and refill it for you.