Ken D.

Co-founder of Chinese Zero to Hero. 10 years of experience in language education. From Shenzhen, China!

Food delivery, or "外卖" (wàimài) has become an integral part of urban life in China. Every day, delivery drivers, known as "骑手" (qíshǒu), work tirelessly to bring meals, drinks, and more to doorsteps across the country. Along with efficiency and convenience, they often deliver something more, stories of courage, kindness, and dedication.

Everyday Heroes on Two Wheels

Chinese delivery workers are known for their resilience. Take, for instance, the story of a delivery driver who saw a motorcycle crash and burst into flames. Without hesitation, he rushed over and pulled the driver to safety—saving a life. In other cases, drivers have jumped in to help overwhelmed restaurant staff by cooking, making dumplings, or even soothing crying babies while waiting for orders.

Why Is Food Delivery So Popular?

There are several reasons why food delivery has become a staple:

• Convenience: No need to cook or go out, just a few taps on your phone and hot food arrives at your door.
• Speed: Many deliveries arrive within 20 to 30 minutes.
• Variety: From Chinese food to Western cuisine, bubble tea to desserts, you can get it all.

The Rise of the Platforms

Two major platforms dominate the Chinese market: Meituan and Ele.me. Since around 2014, these apps have grown explosively and are now essential to city life in China.

Life as a Delivery Rider

Despite the convenience it offers to customers, life for delivery riders is tough. Many work 10+ hours daily, battling the clock and elements. A common idiom used to describe their pace is “争分夺秒” (zhēng fēn duó miǎo), racing against every minute and second. Still, for many, it's a reliable source of income. In top cities like Beijing or Shanghai, monthly earnings can reach ¥8,000 to ¥10,000 RMB.

Challenges in the Industry

Environmental Impact: The use of single-use plastics like containers and utensils contributes significantly to waste.

Stress and Safety: Long hours, weather extremes, and the pressure to deliver quickly can lead to accidents and mental fatigue.

Reflections from Society

The movie “逆行人生” (Upstream) spotlights the challenges faced by delivery workers. It follows a former programmer who turns to food delivery after failing to find work—shedding light on changing job markets and rising youth unemployment. Many young graduates, unable to find jobs, turn to delivery as a temporary solution to support themselves.

The Road Ahead

As rural areas and small towns join the delivery map, the future of food delivery continues to evolve. Will automation and drones replace human drivers? Or will we continue to see millions of hardworking individuals navigating our cities and towns, bridging convenience and community?

What’s your take? Is it a waste of education if a college graduate becomes a delivery driver? Would you consider doing it if you were out of work? Share your thoughts in the comments!

Key Vocabulary

Ken D.

Co-founder of Chinese Zero to Hero. 10 years of experience in language education. From Shenzhen, China!

If you're looking to immerse yourself in Chinese language and culture while enjoying some incredible storytelling, you're in the right place! A few weeks ago, I recommended some great Chinese films (On YouTube), and the response was amazing. So today, I'm excited to share even more fantastic Chinese movies that are all available for free on YouTube with subtitles. Whether you're learning Mandarin or just love good cinema, these films are sure to captivate you.

1. 我不是药神 (Dying to Survive)

The first film on the list is Dying to Survive. The story centers around a struggling salesman in Shanghai who runs a barely legal health product shop. When he learns about a cheaper generic drug from India that can save leukemia (白血病) patients, he takes a risky step to import it illegally. Many patients cannot afford official treatments due to the absurdly high costs, and soon, hundreds and thousands of poor patients depend on him.

The title literally translates to "I am not the god of medicine" (药神, Yào Shén). This highlights the protagonist's inner conflict — he wants to make money and help people but doesn't view himself as a savior. Based on real events, the film critiques the healthcare system and pharmaceutical greed while portraying a deeply moving human story. Although it includes some Shanghai dialect, it's primarily in Mandarin. With a very high Douban rating, this film is an excellent choice for learners looking to challenge themselves while gaining insights into modern Chinese society.

2. 落叶归根 (Getting Home)

Next up is Getting Home (落叶归根), released in 2007. The title is a beautiful idiom symbolizing people returning home at the end of life, touching on themes of aging, belonging, and homecoming.

The story follows a man who, after the sudden death of his friend, embarks on a journey to carry his friend's body back to his remote hometown. Traveling mostly by foot and bus across China, he encounters a rich tapestry of strangers, each adding humanity to his journey. Although the premise may sound somber, the film is filled with warmth, charm, and compassion.

You'll also get exposed to various Chinese dialects, like Dongbeihua (northeastern accent), along with a variety of conversational Mandarin. It's a wonderful choice for learners interested in hearing real-world, everyday Chinese.

3. 城南旧事 (My Memories of Old Beijing)

For those who enjoy a nostalgic, slower-paced film, My Memories of Old Beijing (1983) is a gem. Based on the autobiographical writings of Lin Hai-Yin, a Taiwanese-born author who spent her childhood in Beijing, the movie offers a vivid portrait of life in 1920s Beijing through the eyes of a young girl named Yingzi (英子).

As Yingzi observes her family, neighbors, and the world around her, she slowly begins to grasp the complexities of adulthood. The Mandarin spoken in this film is notably slower and very clear, making it accessible for language learners — though subtitles might only be available in Chinese or English. For advanced learners, this film is a wonderful opportunity to deepen your listening skills while enjoying a touching story about innocence and growing up.

4. 热辣滚烫 (YOLO, 2024)

Last but not least is the fresh hit YOLO (热辣滚烫), released in 2024. This motivational, feel-good film follows a woman at rock bottom: no job, no confidence, and no direction. Seeking change, she steps into a boxing gym and throws herself into training. As she grows stronger physically and mentally, she rediscovers her worth and reconnects with life.

Directed and starred by Jia Ling, who famously lost over 50kg for the role, YOLO became China's highest-grossing film of 2024. Jia Ling also directed another beloved film recommended in a previous video, Hi, Mom (小姐你好).

YOLO features everyday, casual Mandarin, making it a great watch for learners aiming to understand contemporary spoken Chinese.

Boost Your Chinese Learning!

To get even more serious about your Chinese learning journey, be sure to check out Language Player. It lets you watch tens of thousands of videos with interactive subtitles, save common words and phrases, and explore hundreds of movies, TV shows, and books in multiple languages.

For a structured, systematic path to Mandarin fluency, our courses at Chinese Zero to Hero follow the official HSK curriculum — complete with grammar lessons, vocabulary, listening, and reading exercises. As a special bonus, use our viewer coupon code at checkout for a nice discount!

Conclusion

That's it for today's recommendations! Which one are you most excited to watch?

Happy watching and happy learning!

Ken D.

Co-founder of Chinese Zero to Hero. 10 years of experience in language education. From Shenzhen, China!

Chinese dramas have exploded in popularity in recent years. And if you’re learning Mandarin, they’re not just entertaining—they’re an incredible way to increase your comprehensible input. Binge-watching great stories while soaking in authentic Chinese? Yes, please.

In this post, I’ll introduce you to some of the top platforms for streaming Chinese dramas internationally, and I’ll also share must-watch series that came out in the last few years.
Watch this video if you don't want to read through this post.

Where to Watch Chinese Dramas (Outside China)

If you're outside of China, these platforms are your best bet:

1. YouTube

Yes, YouTube! Many Chinese dramas are uploaded in full by official TV show channels, often with both Chinese and English subtitles. It's a fantastic (and free) way to binge high-quality content legally. Just search for the drama name, or try channels like Tencent Video, MangoTV, or Huace Global Fun.

2. iQiyi

This is one of China’s biggest streaming platforms, and it also has an international version with English subtitles for many of its shows. It features not only dramas but also documentaries, variety shows, and more from China.

3. WeTV

Owned by Tencent, WeTV often premieres original Chinese dramas and makes many of them available for free. Some shows are also cross-listed on other platforms, making it a reliable source for trending content.

4. Viki
One of the most popular platforms for watching Asian dramas, Viki offers a large collection of Chinese shows. Subtitles are available in multiple languages, making it a great platform for learners. While some episodes are free, unlocking the full library requires a subscription.

5. Douban

While not a streaming platform, Douban is a key tool in your drama-watching journey. It's where Chinese users post reviews, ratings, and discussions on dramas, movies, and more. Use it to discover hidden gems or see what native audiences are loving right now.

Must-Watch Chinese Dramas

1. Reset (开端)

This time-loop thriller follows a young woman and a man stuck reliving a bus explosion over and over. Each time they die, they restart at the beginning and must figure out how to break the loop before time runs out. A gripping mix of action, psychological tension, and character development.

2. The Bad Kids (隐秘的角落)

This psychological crime drama became a cultural hit during the COVID lockdowns. Three kids accidentally film a murder while playing with a camera, setting off a suspenseful chain of events. Expect deep characters, eerie atmosphere, and plenty of mystery.

3. Joy of Life (庆余年)

A genre-blending mix of historical drama, comedy, and time travel. A modern man wakes up in an ancient kingdom with knowledge from the future and uses his wit to navigate palace conspiracies and uncover secrets about his past. Season 1 was a massive hit, and Season 2 dropped recently.

4. The Long Season (漫长的季节)

This slow-burn thriller is set in a small town and centers on a mystery that has haunted the characters for a decade. It explores fate, regret, and the passage of time with strong emotional storytelling and a haunting tone.

5. Word of Honor (山河令)

A wuxia (martial arts) drama that’s hugely popular among international fans. It tells the story of two martial artists with troubled pasts who form a bond while navigating the dangerous martial arts world. Beautifully choreographed fight scenes and poetic dialogue make it stand out.

6. The Three-Body Problem (三体)

Based on Liu Cixin’s award-winning sci-fi novel, this adaptation follows humanity’s first contact with an alien civilization. A must-watch for sci-fi fans, especially if you’ve seen the Netflix version—this one stays closer to the original story and themes.

7. The Untamed (陈情令)

Based on the hit novel Mo Dao Zu Shi, this fantasy drama is set in a magical world of powerful clans and cultivators. Two characters uncover a dark conspiracy threatening the balance of their world. With epic scenery, strong emotional storytelling, and an international fanbase, it’s one of the most iconic Chinese dramas ever made.

Learn While You Watch

Want to turn your binge-watching into study time?

Try our Language Player app at languageplayer.io. It lets you:

• Watch shows with interactive subtitles
• Save and review words and phrases
• Browse content in 200+ languages

For more structured learning, check out our HSK courses at chinesezerotohero.com. We cover grammar, vocab, listening, and reading in a step-by-step system designed for real progress.

What Do You Recommend?

The more input you get, the faster you'll improve—and Chinese dramas are one of the most fun ways to do it.

Thanks for reading—and happy watching!

Ken D.

Co-founder of Chinese Zero to Hero. 10 years of experience in language education. From Shenzhen, China!

If you’re learning Chinese with our HSK courses, then you’re already building a strong foundation through systematic study. But to take your Mandarin to the next level—and get there faster—you need to surround yourself with real, authentic Chinese content. That’s where Chinese social media comes in.

In this post, we’ll introduce you to four of the most popular Chinese social media platforms in 2025. These apps not only make learning more immersive, but also more fun. Best of all, most of them are easy to sign up for and don’t require a Chinese phone number.

Watch this video if you don't want to read through this post.

1. Xiaohongshu (小红书) – The Lifestyle Powerhouse

Xiaohongshu, also known as RED, is one of the most popular lifestyle and community-based apps in China. Many Americans even flocked to it during the temporary TikTok ban, earning themselves the nickname “TikTok refugees.” Although many left once TikTok was unbanned, Xiaohongshu continues to grow rapidly.

Think of it as a mix between Instagram and Pinterest, but with strong community vibes—like Reddit. Users share posts on everything from travel, food, fashion, and beauty to niche interests like language learning. It’s a great platform for short-form reading and casual video content in Mandarin.

Many posts are written in a conversational style and are often paired with visuals, making them perfect for language learners. Whether you're into photography, fitness, cooking, or film, the algorithm quickly learns your interests and fills your feed with relevant content. It’s also a great place to make friends and engage with other Chinese learners.

Even my mom loves using Xiaohongshu to find recipes and restaurant recommendations—proving it appeals across generations. Personally, it’s my favorite Chinese social media app, and I use it regularly.

2. WeChat Channels – A Hidden Gem Inside China’s Super App

You probably already have WeChat on your phone, especially if you’ve spent time in China. But there’s a feature inside WeChat that many users overlook: WeChat Channels.

WeChat Channels is similar to TikTok or Instagram Reels—it’s where you’ll find tons of short, engaging Chinese videos. Whether you’re into comedy, lifestyle vlogs, or educational content, the algorithm will show you more of what you engage with. It’s an easy way to sneak Mandarin practice into your everyday scrolling.

My dad is always on WeChat Channels, watching funny skits and videos. And if it's good enough for him, it’s probably good enough for you too!

Bonus: Structured Learning with Chinese Zero to Hero

Before we continue, if you're looking for structured Mandarin lessons, don’t forget about our HSK courses. We cover grammar, vocabulary, listening, reading, and more in a clear, step-by-step format. You can preview the first lesson of any course for free.

For even more language input, check out our Language Player app. It lets you:

• Watch videos with interactive subtitles
• Save and review common words and phrases
• Explore movies and TV series in over 200 languages

3. Douban (豆瓣) – For Deep Thinkers and Discussion Lovers

If you’re more into reading and thoughtful discussions, Douban is for you. It’s like Reddit, Goodreads, and Letterboxd combined—a hub for movie buffs, book lovers, and art fans.

Douban hosts tons of user-generated reviews, discussion boards, and long-form content across a wide range of topics. The language here tends to be more expressive and closer to how people naturally write or speak online—perfect for intermediate learners trying to level up their reading skills.

Whether you're analyzing a film or diving into a book review, Douban gives you rich exposure to real-world Chinese in context.

4. Bilibili (哔哩哔哩) – The YouTube of China

Bilibili is often referred to as the “YouTube of China,” and for good reason. It’s packed with videos on everything from tech and travel vlogs to anime, documentaries, and education.

One of the best things about Bilibili for learners? Most videos come with Chinese subtitles, which make following along and practicing your listening skills much easier. I personally love watching gadget reviews, travel content, and updates on Chinese tech trends.

Another cool feature is danmu (弹幕)—live viewer comments that fly across the screen during the video. It’s a fun way to see how native speakers react and express themselves in real-time.

Many Chinese creators upload to Bilibili first and only later re-upload to YouTube. So if you really want to explore the heart of Chinese creator culture, start here.

Honorable Mentions: Douyin and Weibo

Douyin (the original Chinese version of TikTok) and Weibo (China’s Twitter equivalent) are two of the most-used social platforms in China. However, they come with a major catch: you typically need a Chinese phone number to register.

That makes them a bit harder to access for foreign learners. But if you ever manage to get an account, they offer incredible insights into daily Chinese life, news, trends, and internet culture.

Final Thoughts

So, which Chinese social media apps do you use—or want to try out?

Thanks for reading—and happy studying!

Learning Mandarin? Keeping track of all the words you’ve learned is a great way to stay motivated! That’s why we’ve created a free, beautifully designed HSK vocabulary poster that you can download, print, and use as a visual learning tool.

📥 Download Your Free HSK Word List Poster
Click below to download your free PDF and start tracking your progress today!

👉 [Download Now]

💡 How to Use It?

• Print it out and stick it on your wall
• Highlight words you’ve learned
• Set daily or weekly vocabulary goals
• Use it as a quick reference guide

P.S. Share a photo of your printed poster on social media and tag us @ChineseZeroToHero – we’d love to see it in action!

Learning a new language can be daunting, especially one with as rich and complex a history as Chinese. But fret not, budding linguist! The digital age brings resources to your fingertips, making it easier than ever to dive into the world of Mandarin. If you're a beginner looking to embark on this linguistic journey, you're in the right place. We're here to guide you through your first steps in learning Chinese online.

Why Learn Chinese?

China's growing influence on the global stage makes Mandarin, its official language, increasingly relevant. With over a billion speakers worldwide, it's not just a language of business, but also of culture, history, and art.

Starting with the Basics: HSK 1

Before diving into the vast sea of the Chinese language, it's crucial to start with a solid foundation. The Hanyu Shuiping Kaoshi (HSK) is an internationally recognized standard for Mandarin Chinese proficiency. HSK 1 is the starting point, designed for beginners.

Lucky for you, Chinese Zero to Hero offers a comprehensive HSK 1 video course. Our curriculum ensures you grasp the basics of Mandarin phonetics, tones, and essential vocabulary. Each lesson is crafted to be engaging, with real-life examples, making your learning process both fun and effective.

Tips for Beginners

1. Consistency is Key: Set aside time each day to practice. Even 20 minutes daily can make a significant difference.
2. Practice Listening: Use tools like Language Player to watch videos with interactive subtitles. It aids in improving comprehension.
3. Engage with the Community: Join forums, online groups, or language exchange meet-ups to practice speaking and make friends.
4. Flashcards: Use apps or traditional cards to memorize vocabulary.
5. Stay Curious: Explore Chinese music, movies, and literature to enrich your learning experience.

The Journey Ahead

Remember, every expert was once a beginner. With the vast resources available online, especially our HSK 1 video course, you're well on your way to becoming fluent in Chinese. Embrace the challenges, celebrate the milestones, and enjoy every moment of your linguistic journey.

The Hanyu Shuiping Kaoshi (HSK) is an essential milestone for anyone aiming to master the Chinese language. This exam can serve as a testament to your proficiency, paving the way for academic, professional, and personal opportunities in Chinese-speaking regions. Here are some tried and tested tips to help you optimize your performance, backed by academic research and the wisdom of successful test-takers.

1. Understand the Exam Structure
   Familiarize yourself with the format, type of questions, and time constraints of each HSK level. Each tier focuses on varying vocabulary counts and complexity levels. Being well-versed with the structure will prevent surprises on the exam day.
2. Consistent Practice
   Regular practice is the key to fluency. Studies suggest that consistent exposure and use of a language significantly boost exam performance (MacIntyre, Noels, & Clément, 1997). Utilizing tools like the Chinese Zero to Hero courses can offer comprehensive learning modules aligned with HSK standards, ensuring you're on the right track.
3. Immersive Learning
   Embrace an immersive learning approach. Watch Chinese films, listen to songs, podcasts, or engage in conversations. The Language Player app, with its interactive subtitles, offers a fantastic medium to practice listening skills and expand your vocabulary in real-life contexts.
4. Simulate Exam Conditions
   One of the best ways to prepare is by simulating the actual exam scenario. Take mock tests under real-time constraints. This helps not only with revision but also in building time management skills.
5. Mindset and Motivation
   A positive attitude and intrinsic motivation play a pivotal role in language learning outcomes (Dörnyei, 2001). Believe in your capabilities, remind yourself why you embarked on this journey, and visualize the benefits of passing the HSK exam.
6. On the Exam Day
   Get a good night's sleep before the exam. Arrive early to familiarize yourself with the test environment. Read instructions meticulously and budget your time wisely.
7. Post-Exam Analysis
   Irrespective of your exam results, take time to analyze areas of improvement. This reflection can provide insights into your strengths and areas where you need further practice.

The HSK exam, while challenging, becomes considerably manageable with the right strategies and tools. By leveraging robust platforms like Chinese Zero to Hero and Language Player, you can ensure a comprehensive and effective preparation process, increasing your chances of achieving a commendable score.

References
MacIntyre, P. D., Noels, K. A., & Clément, R. (1997). Biases in self-ratings of second language proficiency: The role of language anxiety. Language Learning, 47(2), 265-287.
Dörnyei, Z. (2001). Motivational Strategies in the Language Classroom. Cambridge University Press.

The Chinese language, with its rich history and cultural significance, isn't monolithic. Among the various dialects and forms that exist, Mandarin and Cantonese stand out as the most widely recognized. But what sets them apart? Let's dive deep into understanding the key differences between Mandarin and Cantonese.

1. Geographical Distribution
   Mandarin, often referred to as Putonghua or Standard Chinese, is predominantly spoken in mainland China, Taiwan, and is one of the four official languages of Singapore. Cantonese, on the other hand, is primarily spoken in Guangdong and Guangxi provinces in China, as well as in Hong Kong and Macau (Zhou, 2003).
2. Tonal Differences
   Tones are crucial in Chinese languages. Mandarin features four main tones, while Cantonese is more intricate with six to nine tones (depending on the analysis). This tonal complexity in Cantonese can make it challenging for Mandarin speakers to understand (Lee & Zee, 2003).
3. Script and Written Form
   Historically, Cantonese speakers used traditional Chinese characters, whereas Mandarin speakers shifted to simplified characters after the 1950s in mainland China. However, this distinction is blurring with globalization and the widespread use of digital media.
4. Vocabulary and Idioms
   Given their different historical and cultural contexts, Mandarin and Cantonese have distinct vocabularies and idioms. For instance, some everyday words are entirely different in the two dialects (Matthews & Yip, 1994).
5. Grammatical Nuances
   While the grammar of Mandarin and Cantonese is broadly similar due to their shared roots, there are subtle differences. These disparities can be found in sentence structure, usage of particles, and other grammatical elements.
6. Cultural and Media Representation
   Mandarin, being the "official" language, dominates mainland Chinese media. However, Cantonese has a robust media presence in Hong Kong and abroad, with Cantonese films, music, and TV shows having a significant cultural impact, especially in Southeast Asia.

Mandarin and Cantonese, while sharing a historical lineage, have evolved uniquely, influenced by geographical, political, and cultural factors. For someone keen on learning "Chinese," understanding these differences is crucial to choose the dialect that aligns with their goals and interests.

References
Zhou, M. (2003). Multilingualism in China: The politics of writing reforms for minority languages 1949-2002. Berlin & New York: Mouton de Gruyter.
Lee, W. S., & Zee, E. (2003). Standard Chinese (Beijing). Journal of the International Phonetic Association, 33(1), 109-112.
Matthews, S., & Yip, V. (1994). Cantonese: A Comprehensive Grammar. Routledge.

In today's digital age, mobile apps have transformed the way we learn languages. Chinese, with its rich tonalities and script, can especially benefit from app-assisted learning. With so many apps available, it can be daunting to pick the right ones. To guide you through, we've curated a list of the best Chinese learning apps on the market.

1. Chinese Zero to Hero
   Chinese Zero to Hero offers a comprehensive, mobile-optimized experience for learners on-the-go. With courses covering HSK levels 1 through 9, it's a centralized solution for mastering Chinese at all levels. With over 2,000 instructional videos, it bridges traditional teaching methods with contemporary multimedia approaches.
2. Language Player
   Immersion is a critical pillar in language acquisition. Language Player uses this principle digitally by offering a platform for learners to watch videos with interactive subtitles. This aligns with the pedagogical findings that multimedia immersion can aid in comprehension and retention of language learning (Chinnery, 2006).
3. Pleco
   Widely regarded as an essential tool for Chinese learners, Pleco is more than a dictionary. With features like OCR (text scanning) and sentence breakdowns, it's an invaluable resource from beginner to advanced stages.
4. HelloTalk
   Direct interaction with native speakers can significantly enhance language proficiency. HelloTalk facilitates this by connecting learners with native Chinese speakers, thereby making real-world communication a core part of the learning process.
5. Skritter
   Chinese characters can be daunting for many. Skritter makes this easier, offering an interactive platform to practice character writing. This approach aligns with studies that have highlighted the efficacy of technology-assisted character recognition and learning (Lu, 2008).

The landscape of Chinese learning has been significantly enhanced with digital tools. From comprehensive solutions like Chinese Zero to Hero to specialized platforms like Language Player, Skritter, and Pleco, technology has made Chinese more accessible to learners worldwide.

References
Chinnery, G. M. (2006). Going to the MALL: mobile assisted language learning. Language Learning & Technology, 10(1), 9-16.
Lu, M. (2008). Effectiveness of vocabulary learning via mobile phone. Journal of Computer Assisted Learning, 24(6), 515-525.