Summer is here — and in China, the hottest time of the year has a special name: 三伏天 (sān fú tiān) . In this episode, host Daisy takes you through everything you need to know about China’s “dog days” — from what 三伏天 actually means, to how the dates are calculated each year, to traditional foods, the famous 三伏贴 (sān fú tiē) therapy, and even some fun 顺口溜 (rhymes) to practice your pronunciation. You’ll learn: * What 三伏天 means and why it’s called the “dog days” in English 🐶 * How the dates are calculated — and why 2026 has a 40‑day “extended” 三伏天 * Traditional northern Chinese eating habits: dumplings, noodles, and Chinese style pancakes * The TCM practice of 冬病夏治 (winter illnesses, summer treatment) and 三伏贴 * Three catchy 顺口溜 to practice and impress your Chinese friends This episode is perfect for Mandarin learners who want to learn practical vocabulary, understand seasonal Chinese culture, and practice listening with clear, natural Chinese. If you’re interested in an intensive class in Hangzhou, a summer camp in Hangzhou, or HSK preparation in Hangzhou, Chinese Surfing’s summer program is now open for registration! 🎧 Timestamps & Key Takeaways 00:00 – Opening: What is 三伏天? Daisy introduces the topic — the hottest, most humid days of the year in China. In English, it’s called “dog days.” 📖 Keywords: 三伏天 (sān fú tiān), dog days 01:40 – When is 三伏天 in 2026? * 入伏 (rù fú) – the first day of 三伏天: July 15, 2026 * 初伏 (chū fú): July 15 – July 24 (10 days) * 中伏 (zhōng fú): July 25 – August 13 (20 days) * 末伏 (mò fú): August 14 – August 23 (10 days) Total: 40 days — an “extended version” of 三伏天. 中伏 overlaps with 大暑 (Great Heat), the hottest solar term of the year. 📖 Keywords: 入伏 (rù fú), 初伏 (chū fú), 中伏 (zhōng fú), 末伏 (mò fú), 大暑 (dà shǔ) Why do the dates change every year? 三伏天 is calculated using the traditional 干支纪日法 (Gānzhī calendar) and the 24 solar terms. 初伏 starts on the 3rd 庚日 (Gēng day) after 夏至 (Summer Solstice), and 末伏 starts on the 1st 庚日 after 立秋 (Start of Autumn). 初伏 and 末伏 are always 10 days, but 中伏 can be 10 or 20 days — making the whole 三伏天 either 30 or 40 days long. 05:50 – 头伏饺子二伏面，三伏烙饼摊鸡蛋 This northern Chinese saying tells you what to eat during each phase: * 头伏饺子 (dumplings) – appetizing and satisfying, shaped like ancient gold ingots (元宝) for good luck * 二伏面 (noodles) – hot noodles make you sweat, which helps release dampness from the body * 三伏烙饼摊鸡蛋 (pancakes with eggs) – nutritious and energy‑rich 📖 Keywords: 饺子 (jiǎozi), 面条 (miàntiáo), 烙饼 (làobǐng), 开胃 (kāiwèi), 解馋 (jiěchán) 07:10 – 三伏贴: TCM’s “Winter Illness, Summer Treatment” * 三伏贴 (sān fú tiē) is a TCM therapy: small herbal patches placed on specific 穴位 (acupuncture points) during the hottest days. * The theory behind it: 冬病夏治 (dōng bìng xià zhì) — treat winter illnesses in summer when the body’s 阳气 (yáng qì) is at its peak. * Common conditions treated: chronic cough, allergic rhinitis, asthma, joint pain. * Usually applied once per 伏, 6–8 hours each time. Many people do this for 3 consecutive years for best results. 📖 Keywords: 三伏贴 (sān fú tiē), 冬病夏治 (dōng bìng xià zhì), 穴位 (xuéwèi), 阳气 (yáng qì), 抵抗力 (dǐkàng lì) 09:00 – Three 顺口溜 to practice 顺口溜 (shùn kǒu liū) are catchy, rhyming phrases that are fun and easy to remember. Daisy shares three: ① How hot is it? 一伏热，二伏燥，三伏烤，夏日炎炎真难熬！ (First 伏 is hot, second is dry, third is roasting — summer heat is really hard to bear!) ② What to eat 一伏吃冰棒，二伏喝绿豆汤，三伏啃西瓜，消暑降温好方法！ (First 伏 eat popsicles, second drink mung bean soup, third eat watermelon — great ways to cool down!) ③ Sweating like crazy 一伏汗如雨，二伏汗如瀑，三伏汗如海，泳池边成了最热闹的场所！ (First 伏 sweat like rain, second like a waterfall, third like the sea — the pool becomes the busiest place!) 📖 Keywords: 顺口溜 (shùn kǒu liū), 押韵 (yā yùn), 比喻 (bǐ yù), 夸张 (kuā zhāng) E-mail Daisy to get Useful Vocabulary from this episode (by HSK Level) 📖 daisy@chinese-surfing.com 💬 Join the Conversation * What do you call the hottest days of summer in your language/country? * Have you ever tried 三伏贴 or any other TCM therapy? * Which 顺口溜 was your favorite? Can you repeat it? Leave a comment on your podcast platform or share your thoughts in your Chinese learning group! 📩 Learn Chinese with Chinese Surfing Interested in intensive class in Hangzhou, summer camp in Hangzhou, or HSK preparation in Hangzhou? Our summer program is now open for registration! 📧 Email: info@chinese-surfing.com 💬 WeChat: Chinesesurfing2 Follow us: Instagram & Xiaohongshu: Chinese Surfing 🎁 Free learning materials: 👉 www.chinese-surfing.com 📜 Want the full PDF script of this episode? 📧 Email: daisy@chinese-surfing.com

Why do foreign students come to China to learn Chinese? And what keeps them motivated even at the advanced HSK 6 level? In this episode, host Daisy sits down with two dedicated Chinese Surfing students – Jenny (from Luxembourg) and Raina (from Indonesia) – who are both studying HSK 6. They share their personal journeys learning Chinese, their honest thoughts on living in Hangzhou, and their most awkward (and proudest) Chinese language moments. You’ll hear: * What it’s really like to live and study Chinese in Hangzhou 🌿 * The biggest challenges when coming back to Chinese after a long break👀 * A hilarious story about misusing a word😂 * A proud moment using the idiom with family😄 * Practical study tips: how to remember new vocabulary fast💡 If you’re considering an intensive class in Hangzhou, a summer camp in Hangzhou, or HSK preparation in Hangzhou, this episode is for you. 🎧 Listen now and discover why Hangzhou is the perfect place to learn Chinese! 🎧 Timestamps & Key Takeaways 00:00 – Opening & Guest Introductions Daisy welcomes Jenny (from Luxembourg) and Raina (from Indonesia). Both have been studying at Chinese Surfing for over two years and are currently taking HSK6 group classes. 02:40 – What Do You Think of Hangzhou? Jenny shares her first impression: West Lake is beautiful, but the city feels similar to other big Chinese cities. After living here longer, she appreciates Hangzhou’s greenery – you can quickly get to nature for a walk or a small hike. The only downside? Summer is extremely hot and lasts a long time. Raina agrees: she really enjoys Hangzhou’s绿化 (greenery) and environment. 📖 Keywords: 绿化 (lǜhuà) – greenery / landscaping 环境 (huánjìng) – environment 05:00 – Your Chinese Learning Background Raina started learning Chinese in kindergarten and continued through high school – then took a 10-year break. When she came back, her Chinese had dropped to HSK 3 level. She restarted at Beijing Language and Culture University in 2023, then transferred to Zhejiang University in 2024. Now she’s at HSK 6. 📖 Keywords: 退步 (tuìbù) – to regress 重新开始 (chóngxīn kāishǐ) – to start over Jenny grew up speaking Chinese with her family in Luxembourg but was born and raised there. She attended a Chinese primary school in Hangzhou for one year, then returned to Luxembourg. Her Chinese stayed at around HSK 4 level for years. She attended weekend Chinese schools but says they only maintained her level – they didn’t help her improve. 📖 Keywords: 保持 (bǎochí) – to maintain 提高 (tígāo) – to improve 华侨 (huáqiáo) – overseas Chinese What drives Jenny to learn Chinese now? Two regrets: 1) She couldn’t communicate deeply with her family because of language barriers. 2) She felt a distance from Chinese culture and people when visiting China. Improving her Chinese gives her more confidence and a sense of 归属感 (guīshǔgǎn – belonging) . 📖 Keywords: 距离 (jùlí) – distance 自信 (zìxìn) – confidence 归属感 (guīshǔgǎn) – sense of belonging 10:00 – What Keeps You Motivated to Study? Daisy asks: besides your main goals, what motivates you to keep taking Chinese classes? Raina says her motivation comes from the fun and interesting class content and the joy of studying with Jenny and her teacher. Jenny jokes that she’s motivated by Raina’s compliments! (But really, studying with a friend makes it more enjoyable.) 📖 Keywords: 动力 (dònglì) – motivation 内容 (nèiróng) – content 有趣 (yǒuqù) – interesting 12:00 – Proud & Embarrassing Moments Raina shares an embarrassing story: she heard her boyfriend use the word 懵逼 (měngbī – stunned/confused) and thought it meant “distracted” – so she told her boyfriend “开车不要懵逼” while he was driving, which sounded harsh and rude. 😂 Jenny shares a proud moment: she used the idiom 门可罗雀 (ménkěluóquè – very quiet/deserted) in front of her dad, and he was surprised and impressed! 15:00 – Best Study Tips Jenny’s tip: Use new words immediately – in daily life, in conversations with family, or even in text messages. If nobody is around, practice by imagining sentences in your head. She says this helps her remember vocabulary faster. Raina’s tip: When she sees a Chinese character, she mentally breaks down its structure and thinks about what words go with it – this helps her recognize characters and their combinations more easily. 📖 Keywords: 马上 (mǎshàng) – immediately 想象 (xiǎngxiàng) – to imagine 结构 (jiégòu) – structure 搭配 (dāpèi) – collocation 19:30 – One Piece of Advice for Other Learners Raina: “Keep your passion for learning. Don’t lose confidence because of grades or tough exams. These are just normal challenges in learning.” Jenny: “It’s never too late to start learning Chinese – or to rediscover it. ” No matter your age or past experience, you can always find a new way to learn that fits your current life. 23:05 – Closing: DeepSeek & Learning Chinese in Hangzhou Daisy shares a timely connection: DeepSeek, the Chinese AI company that has been making global headlines, is headquartered in Hangzhou . And they’re actively hiring – no nationality restrictions, but they require employees to be able to work in Chinese . A perfect example of why Chinese skills matter more than ever. Daisy invites listeners to join Chinese Surfing’s summer course in Hangzhou: morning classes with professional teachers, afternoon cultural activities – walking by West Lake, visiting Longjing Village for tea culture, exploring local markets, and practicing Chinese in real-life settings. Contact info in the shownotes. 💬 Join the Conversation * Have you ever visited Hangzhou? What did you think? * What keeps you motivated to learn Chinese? * What’s your most embarrassing (or proudest) Chinese language moment? Leave a comment on your podcast platform or share your thoughts in your Chinese learning group. 📩 Learn Chinese with Chinese Surfing Interested in intensive class in Hangzhou, summer camp in Hangzhou, or HSK preparation in Hangzhou? Check out our summer program! 📧 Email: info@chinese-surfing.com 💬 WeChat: Chinesesurfing2 Follow us: Instagram & Xiaohongshu: Chinese Surfing 🎁 Free learning materials: 👉 www.chinese-surfing.com 📜 Want the full PDF script of this episode? 📧 Email: daisy@chinese-surfing.com

Do you know the story behind the Dragon Boat Festival? In this episode, teacher Daisy takes you on a delicious and cultural journey through one of China’s most important traditional holidays. You’ll learn: - What zongzi (rice dumplings) are and Northerners and Southerners' preference - How dragon boat racing is connected to the ancient poet Qu Yuan - Why people hang ai cao (wormwood) on their doors during the festival - The right way to greet someone during Dragon Boat Festival This episode is perfect for learners at HSK 3–4 level and above who want to improve listening, learn real-life vocabulary, and discover Chinese culture in simple, clear Chinese. If you’re looking for intensive class in Hangzhou, summer camp in Hangzhou, or HSK preparation in Hangzhou, Chinese Surfing has you covered – plus a special summer course introduction at the end of the episode! 🎧 Timestamps & Key Takeaways 00:00 – Opening Daisy introduces the Dragon Boat Festival (端午节). It falls on the 5th day of the 5th lunar month (late May to early June). 01:20 – 粽子Zòngzi: Sweet or Savory? - Zongzi are glutinous rice dumplings wrapped in bamboo or reed leaves. - Northern style: sweet with red dates, red bean paste, dipped in sugar. - Southern style: savory with pork, salted egg yolk, shiitake mushrooms, chestnuts. - Daisy’s favorite: pork zongzi. 📖 Keywords: 粽子 (zòngzi), 糯米 (nuòmǐ), 甜 (tián), 咸 (xián) 03:40 – Dragon Boat Racing & Qu Yuan - Qu Yuan was a patriotic poet who drowned himself in the Miluo River. - People rowed boats to save him, later turning into dragon boat races. - They threw zongzi into the river so fish wouldn’t eat his body. - Today, dragon boat racing is an international sport. 📖 Keywords: 赛龙舟 (sài lóngzhōu), 屈原 (Qū Yuán), 汨罗江 (Mìluó Jiāng) 05:00 – Hanging Wormwood (Ai Cao) - Ai Cao has a strong smell that repels insects. - People hang it on doors during the festival for health and protection. - You can buy fresh wormwood in markets or even as decorations. 📖 Keywords: 挂(guà), 艾草 (ài cǎo), 驱虫 (qū chóng), 平安 (píng ān) 06:00 – How to Greet Someone on Duanwu - Traditional: “端午安康” (Duanwu Ankang – wish you peace and health). - Modern: “端午快乐” (Duanwu Kuaile – happy Duanwu) is also widely accepted. - Daisy teaches you the phrase: “端午节到了，祝您端午安康。” 📖 Keywords: 安康 (ānkāng), 祝福 (zhùfú) 08:00 – Summer Course in Hangzhou - 4‑week intensive summer program in Hangzhou. - Morning: 1-on-1 or small group lessons with professional teachers (all HSK levels). - Afternoon: cultural activities – West Lake walks, tea culture at Longjing Village, calligraphy, silk, local markets, restaurants. - You’ll get a certificate and a learning report. 09:40 – Recap & Farewell Daisy reviews the key points and encourages listeners to practice speaking and join Chinese Surfing courses. 📖 Useful Vocabulary (by HSK Level) | HSK | Chinese | Pinyin | English | | 2 | 节日 | jiérì | festival | | 2 | 粽子 | zòngzi | rice dumpling | | 3 | 糯米 | nuòmǐ | glutinous rice | | 3 | 传统 | chuántǒng | traditional | | 3 | 比赛 | bǐsài | competition / race | | 4 | 诗人 | shīrén | poet | | 4 | 爱国 | àiguó | patriotic | | 4 | 纪念 | jìniàn | to commemorate | | 4 | 口味 | kǒuwèi | taste / flavor | | 5 | 馅料 | xiànliào | filling | | 5 | 安康 | ānkāng | peace and health | | 6 | 驱虫 | qū chóng | to repel insects | | 6+ | 汨罗江 | Mìluó Jiāng | Miluo River | | 6+ | 艾草 | ài cǎo | wormwood | 💬 Join the Conversation - Have you ever tried zongzi? Do you prefer sweet or savory? - Do you have a similar festival in your country? - How would you reply if a Chinese friend said “端午安康” to you? Leave a comment on your podcast platform or share your thoughts in your Chinese learning group. 📩 Learn Chinese with Chinese Surfing Interested in intensive class in Hangzhou, summer camp in Hangzhou, or HSK preparation in Hangzhou? Check out our 4‑week summer program in Hangzhou! 📧 Email: info@chinese-surfing.com 🌍 WeChat: Chinesesurfing2 💬 Whatsapp: +86 198 5741 8482 🔍Website: www.chinese-surfing.com Follow us: Instagram & Xiaohongshu: Chinese Surfing 🎁 Free learning materials: 👉 www.chinese-surfing.com 📜 Full PDF script of this episode? 📧 daisy@chinese-surfing.com Next Episode Preview: More Chinese culture and language tips – stay tuned!

Welcome back to The Chinese Surfing Podcast! Today is the first episode of our brand‑new series – “Foreign Student Interviews & Chinese Showcase” . Our first guest is Bruno, a Brazilian student who has been learning Chinese for nearly seven years. He loves reading, music, photography, and even plays the guqin. In this episode, Bruno shares his fascinating journey of Chinese names. His first Chinese name was 王爵 (Wáng Jué) – a cool name that means “duke”. But he noticed that Chinese friends rarely called him by that name. Why? Later, with the help of AI and friends, he found a new name: 王魏澜 (Wáng Wèilán) , a poetic name that also matches his Bazi (Chinese astrological elements) which said he needed water and wood elements. The name sounds beautiful and feels natural to use in daily life. 👂Bruno talks about: * Why Bruno’s first Chinese name “Wang Jue” made his Chinese friends awkward * How AI and Bazi helped Bruno pick his new name “Wang Weilan” * A funny story at the Chinese customs when his old name caused confusion * Practical tips for foreign learners to choose a suitable Chinese name This heartwarming and humorous conversation is great for intermediate to advanced learners. You’ll learn how to talk about names, personal preferences, and cultural perceptions in Chinese. And if you’re thinking about your own Chinese name, this episode will give you great ideas. If you’re looking for intensive class in Hangzhou, summer camp in Hangzhou, or HSK preparation in Hangzhou, Chinese Surfing is here to help. 🎧 Timestamps & Key Takeaways 00:00 – Opening Daisy introduces the new series and welcomes Bruno, a Brazilian student who loves Chinese culture and plays the guqin. 01:10 – Bruno’s formal self‑introduction “大家好，我叫王魏澜。我来自巴西，学习中文已经快要到七年了。” 📖Keywords: * 介绍 (jièshào) – to introduce * 名字 (míngzi) – name * 巴西 (Bāxī) – Brazil * 学习中文 (xuéxí zhōngwén) – to learn Chinese 04:00 – How Bruno got his first Chinese name: 王爵 (Wáng Jué) He chose the surname 王(wáng) because he was born in the Year of the Tiger (the tiger’s forehead has a “王” marking). 爵(jué) came from his Portuguese surname meaning “duke”. A teacher at Nanjing Normal University suggested 王爵. Although Bruno loved the name, Chinese friends felt awkward calling him “Wáng Jué”. 📖Keywords: * 属虎 (shǔ hǔ) – born in the Year of the Tiger * 姓 (xìng) – surname * 公爵 (gōngjué) – duke * 称号 (chēnghào) – title / appellation 07:30 – Why he decided to change his name Chinese friends rarely used his Chinese name; they preferred his English name. Bruno realized that a royal title might sound too strange in everyday conversation. 📖 Keywords: * 朋友 (péngyou) – friend * 换名字 (huàn míngzi) – to change one’s name * 尴尬 (gāngà) – awkward 09:10 – How Bruno found his new name: 王魏澜 (Wáng Wèilán) He still wanted to keep 王 as his surname. Using AI to check his Bazi (Chinese zodiac elements), he learned he “lacks water and wood”. He loves the color blue. His friend suggested finding a name that sounds like “lánsè” (blue) with water and wood radicals. They found 魏澜: * 魏wèi contains the “wood” radical (from 禾/grass), also has the “ghost” radical (鬼) – perfect for his love of ghost stories. 魏wèi is also the name of an ancient Chinese kingdom (Wei State), which appeals to his interest in Chinese history. * 澜lán contains the “water” radical (氵), balancing his lack of water. * The pronunciation Wèilán is a homophone of 蔚蓝 (deep sky blue), his favorite color. * The name is poetic, personal, and perfectly suited to him. 📖 Keywords: * 八字 (bāzì) – Bazi (Chinese astrological birth chart) * 五行 (wǔxíng) – five elements * 偏旁 (piānpáng) – radical (of a character) * 谐音 (xiéyīn) – homophone * 蔚蓝 (wèilán) – deep sky blue 15:00 – A funny story When returning to China, a customs officer saw his old name 王爵 on the passport and asked about it. Bruno explained he had changed his name, and the officer said, “That’s a good change.” 📖 Keywords: * 海关 (hǎiguān) – customs * 护照 (hùzhào) – passport * 改名字 (gǎi míngzi) – to change one’s name 16:00 – How people use his new name Now his Chinese friends and even his squash coach call him 王魏澜 (or simply 魏澜). He says happily: “我的名字现在有用了!”(My Chinese name is useful now!) 17:30 – Bruno’s tips for choosing a Chinese name * Search online (Baidu or AI) to make sure the name has no bad meanings. * Be creative – find characters that suit your personality, not just a phonetic match. * Ask Chinese friends or colleagues for their opinions. * Try using Bazi (Chinese astrological elements) – it’s very “Chinese” and fun. 20:00 – Closing reflections Bruno thanks Daisy for believing in his Chinese. He encourages everyone: even if your Chinese is not perfect, be brave and do what you want to do. 22:00 – Daisy’s invitation Daisy invites listeners to join the podcast to share their own Chinese stories. She also promotes Chinese Surfing’s summer courses and HSK preparation classes – available both online and in Hangzhou. 💬 Join the Conversation * Do you have a Chinese name? How did you choose it? * Have you ever felt that your Chinese name was awkward or too “special”? * Would you consider using Bazi or AI to help pick a new name? Leave a comment on your podcast platform or share your story in your Chinese learning group. 📩 Learn Chinese with Chinese Surfing Interested in intensive class in Hangzhou, summer camp in Hangzhou, or HSK preparation in Hangzhou? We offer both online and in‑person courses. Contact us: 📧 Email: info@chinese-surfing.com 💬 WeChat: Chinesesurfing2 Follow us: Instagram & Xiaohongshu: Chinese Surfing 🎁 Free learning materials: 👉 www.chinese-surfing.com 📜 Full PDF script of this episode? 📧 daisy@chinese-surfing.com Stay tuned for another inspiring story!

Welcome to a very special episode of The Chinese Surfing Podcast! Today, host Daisy is joined by a special AI co-host – Xiǎo Chàng (小畅). Together, they break down one of the most intimidating yet fascinating topics for Chinese learners: HSK Levels 7-9. If you’ve ever wondered: * What are HSK 7-9? Who are they for? * How difficult are they compared to HSK 6? * Do I really need to take them? * What’s tested? How many words? How long is the exam? Then this episode is for you. Daisy and Xiao Chang keep things simple, clear, and encouraging – no scare tactics, just honest explanations and practical advice. Whether you’re considering an intensive class in Hangzhou, planning to join a summer camp in Hangzhou, or looking for HSK preparation in Hangzhou, this episode will help you understand what advanced Chinese proficiency really means – and whether it’s the right path for you. 🎧 Timestamps & Key Takeaways 00:00 – Introductions Daisy welcomes her AI co-host Xiao Chang and explains why this episode was created: to demystify HSK 7-9. 01:40 – What is HSK 7-9? Who is it for? HSK 1-6 focus on daily life and general communication. HSK 7-9 are advanced professional levelsfor: * International students in Chinese master’s or PhD programs * Chinese language majors worldwide * Professionals using Chinese in translation, diplomacy, business, or academic research 🎯 Key point: If your goal is daily conversation, work, or living in China, HSK 5-6 is already excellent. HSK 7-9 is for those who need professional-level Chinese – like academic English vs. everyday English. 05:00 – How hard is HSK 7-9? * Vocabulary: 11,000 words (HSK 6 has ~5,000) * Covers abstract concepts, academic expressions, and social issues * Reading topics include: China’s tech development, economic policy, cultural communication, etc. 07:00 – Exam structure Five parts: Listening, Reading, Writing, Translation, Speaking Total time: 210 minutes (3.5 hours) – a mental marathon! 08:10 – Speaking test examples Topics like: “How does AI affect future language learning?” or “The impact of urbanization on traditional culture.” These train complex thinking and structured expression. 10:00 – How to prepare * Read in-depth Chinese materials (news commentary, academic articles) * Practice interpretation (oral and written) * Understand China’s social and cultural background 11:30 – Final encouragement Not everyone needs HSK 7-9. If you can live, work, and study in Chinese at HSK 5-6, you’re already amazing. Language is a tool, not a game to “finish.” Every step forward is worth celebrating. 📖 Useful Vocabulary from this episode (by HSK Level)？📃 📧 daisy@chinese-surfing.com 💬 Join the Conversation * Are you thinking about taking HSK 7-9? Why or why not? * What’s the biggest challenge you face in Chinese learning? * Do you prefer studying in Hangzhou? Tell us about your experience! Leave a comment on your podcast platform or share in your Chinese learning group. 📩 Learn Chinese with Chinese Surfing Interested in intensive class in Hangzhou, summer camp in Hangzhou, or HSK preparation in Hangzhou? We’ve got you covered. 📧 Email: info@chinese-surfing.com 💬 WeChat: Chinesesurfing2 Follow us on social media: Instagram & Xiaohongshu: Chinese Surfing 🎁 Free learning materials: 👉 www.chinese-surfing.com 📜 Full PDF script of this episode? 📧 daisy@chinese-surfing.com Next Episode Preview: More these chats? Or back to our regular series? Stay tuned!

In this episode of 畅说中文 (Chàng Shuō Zhōngwén), host Daisy launches a new series: 🎙️ Behind the Scenes of Chinese Teaching Have you ever wondered: * How Chinese teachers prepare their lessons? * How they understand a student’s level? * What actually happens in a first Chinese class? In this episode, a teacher with 10+ years of experience in teaching Chinese as a foreign language shares 3 essential tips that matter more than teaching content in your first class. This episode is helpful for: * Chinese learners who want to understand how teachers think * New or future Chinese teachers * Anyone interested in how Chinese is taught in real classrooms 🎧 Timestamps & Key Takeaways 00:02:00 – No. 1: Know your student Stop and ask: nationality, age, motivation. A 40‑year‑old HR consultant needs HSK4, not generic greetings. Spend 10 minutes personalizing your opening – mention his hobby, and his eyes will light up. 00:04:00 – No. 2: Simple instructions Skip “Let’s look at the PPT.” Use body language (point to ear for “listen”). Online hack: put common phrases on your virtual background – students see them every time they look up. 00:05:10 – No. 3: Ask for feedback Don’t fear criticism. Ask: “Did you like the lesson? What exactly? Was it too fast?” Adult students give honest feedback – use it to improve. 📖 Useful Vocabulary from this episode * 一线老师yīxiàn lǎoshī - front‑line teacher * 翻车fānchē - to fail / go wrong * 专业知识zhuānyè zhīshi - professional knowledge * 了解liǎojiě - to understand / know about * 课堂指令kètáng zhǐlìng - classroom instructions * 零基础líng jīchǔ - absolute beginner * 身体语言shēntǐ yǔyán - body language * 反馈fǎnkuì - feedback * 实习生shíxíshēng - trainee / intern 💡 Language Tips * “翻车” (fānchē) – literally “roll the car”; means something went wrong or failed. Very common in informal speech. Example: “我的第一堂课翻车了。” (My first class was a disaster.) * “拿到手” (yào ná dào shǒu) – “get (information) in hand.” A very natural way to say “这些信息在第一节课之前你需要拿到手。”（you need to obtain this information before class.） 📩 Learn Chinese with Chinese Surfing Interested in Chinese classes or program consultation? 📧 Email: info@chinese-surfing.com 💬 WeChat: Chinesesurfing2 Follow us: 📺Instagram & Xiaohongshu: Chinese Surfing 🎁 Free learning materials: 👉 www.chinese-surfing.com 📜 Full PDF script of this episode? 📧 daisy@chinese-surfing.com 💬 Join the Conversation * Are you a Chinese learner? Has a teacher ever asked you for feedback? What did you say? * What teaching topic would you like to cover next? Leave a comment on your podcast platform or share your thoughts in your Chinese learning group!

Spring is here! In this episode, host Daisy takes you through the most useful and beautiful Chinese words and expressions related to spring (春, chūn). From basic vocabulary to deeper cultural phrases and the famous proverb , you’ll learn how to talk about the season and use these expressions in your daily life. This episode is perfect for all-level Mandarin learners – we start with simple words and gradually move to more advanced phrases. You can listen, repeat, and practice along the way. Whether you’re in Hangzhou enjoying the spring flowers by West Lake or anywhere else in the world, this episode will help you sound more natural and expressive in Chinese. 🎧 Timestamps & Highlights 00:00:00 – Introduction: Spring in Hangzhou Daisy welcomes listeners and talks about how beautiful Hangzhou is in spring – flowers blooming, willows turning green. Many Chinese learners say spring is their favorite season because the weather is perfect for going out and practicing Chinese. 00:01:30 – Basic Spring Vocabulary 1. 春 (chūn) – spring * One of the four seasons: 春chūn (spring), 夏xià (summer), 秋qiū (autumn), 冬dōng (winter) * Spring represents beginning, hope, and growth * Example: “春天来了，天气越来越暖和了。” (Spring is here, the weather is getting warmer.) 2. 春节 (chūn jié) – Spring Festival (Chinese New Year) * The most important holiday in China, usually in January or February * People go home, have reunion dinner, give red envelopes (红包, hóngbāo) * After Spring Festival, the new year truly begins. 3. 春风 (chūn fēng) – spring breeze * A gentle, warm, comfortable wind * Can also describe a person: someone who is gentle and makes others feel at ease – “他说话像春风一样” (He speaks like a spring breeze) 4. 春游 (chūn yóu) – spring outing * Going out to enjoy nature in spring * Schools often organize spring outings for students * Example: “周末我们一起去春游吧！” (Let’s go on a spring outing together this weekend!) 5. 春假 (chūn jià) – spring break * A short vacation in spring for students and teachers * Question for listeners: Does your country have spring break? Where would you like to go? 📖 Useful Vocabulary: * 季节 (jìjié) – season * 暖和 (nuǎnhuo) – warm * 假期 (jiàqī) – vacation / holiday * 舒服 (shūfu) – comfortable * 温柔 (wēnróu) – gentle * 组织 (zǔzhī) – to organize * 享受 (xiǎngshòu) – to enjoy 💡 Language Tip: Notice how 春 combines with different characters to form everyday words: 春天, 春节, 春风, 春游, 春假. Learning these compound words is an efficient way to expand your vocabulary! 00:05:30 – Intermediate Spring Expressions 6. 春意 (chūn yì) – the feeling / atmosphere of spring * 意 (yì) means “feeling” or “sense” * Similar patterns: 秋意 (autumn feeling), 诗意 (poetic feeling) * Example: “今天很有春意。” (Today really feels like spring.) 7. 青春 (qīng chūn) – youth * Refers to young age, typically student years or early career * Like spring, youth is a time of energy, growth, and beauty – but also short * Can describe a state of mind: full of vitality * Example: “不要浪费你的青春。” (Don’t waste your youth.) * Example: “我的爸爸妈妈唱着年轻时的歌，好像又回到了青春。” (My parents sang songs from their youth and seemed to go back to that time.) 📖 Useful Vocabulary: * 活力 (huólì) – vitality / energy * 短暂 (duǎnzàn) – brief / short-lived * 状态 (zhuàngtài) – state / condition 💡 Language Tip: 春意 is a great pattern: noun + 意 = the feeling of that noun. Try making your own: 画意 (feeling of paintings), 夏意 (feeling of summer). Native speakers will understand you! 00:07:20 – Advanced Proverb: 一年之计在于春 8. 一年之计在于春 (yī nián zhī jì zài yú chūn) * Literally: “The whole year’s planning depends on spring.” * Meaning: The beginning of the year is the most important time for making plans. If you start well, the rest will go smoothly. * Often paired with: “一日之计在于晨” (yī rì zhī jì zài yú chén) – The whole day’s planning depends on the morning. * This reflects a cultural value: cherish time, plan early, work hard from the start * Daisy’s note: The same applies to learning Chinese – make a good plan, set goals, and you’ll learn more easily and smoothly. 📖 Useful Vocabulary: * 计划 (jìhuà) – plan * 珍惜 (zhēnxī) – to cherish * 顺利 (shùnlì) – smooth / successful 💡 Language Tip: This proverb is very common in Chinese culture. You can use it to encourage yourself or others at the beginning of a new project, a new year, or even a new semester of Chinese class! 💬 Join the Conversation * What is your favorite season? Why? * What does spring look like where you live? * Did you learn any new word or expression from this episode? * Does your country have a “spring break” holiday? Where would you like to go for a spring outing? Leave a comment on your podcast platform or share your thoughts in your Chinese learning group! 📩 Learn Chinese with Chinese Surfing Interested in Chinese classes or program consultation? 📧 Email: info@chinese-surfing.com 💬 WeChat: Chinesesurfing2 Follow us on social media: Instagram & Xiaohongshu: Chinese Surfing 🎁 Free learning materials: 👉 www.chinese-surfing.com 📜 Want the full PDF script of this episode? 📧 Email: daisy@chinese-surfing.com Coming Up Next: More seasonal vocabulary? Or something else – stay tuned!

Welcome back to our dialect series! Today, we’re joined again by our wonderful teacher Ouyang, who grew up in Wuhan’s Wuchang District. She’ll take us on a journey through Wuhan dialect (武汉话, Wǔhànhuà)—from how young people actually use it today, to iconic phrases like “告莫斯” (gào mò sī – what are you doing?) and the internet-famous “蒜鸟” (suàn niǎo – just forget it), complete with its own plush toy! This episode is great for learners who are curious about Chinese dialects, regional culture, and how language reflects local personality. 🎧 Timestamps & Highlights 00:01:25 – Where is Teacher Oyang from? * From Wuhan, Hubei Province * Wuhan is divided into three districts: Wuchang (武昌), Hankou (汉口), and Hanyang (汉阳) * Wuchang is south of the Yangtze River; Hankou and Hanyang are north * Teacher Ouyang’s family lives in Wuchang District 📖 Useful Vocabulary: * 武汉 (Wǔhàn) – Wuhan * 湖北省 (Húběi Shěng) – Hubei Province * 长江 (Cháng Jiāng) – Yangtze River * 区 (qū) – district 00:03:45 – Do young people still speak Wuhan dialect? * Teacher Ouyang speaks Wuhan dialect with her family * With friends her age, she mostly uses Mandarin—a habit from school where teachers required Mandarin * Young people in Wuhan can understand Wuhan dialect, but many speak it less fluently than their parents * For travelers: Mandarin works fine in Wuhan, though locals may speak with a Wuhan accent 📖 Useful Vocabulary: * 方言 (fāngyán) – dialect * 普通话 (Pǔtōnghuà) – Mandarin * 口音 (kǒuyīn) – accent * 年轻人 (niánqīng rén) – young people 00:06:45 – “What are you doing?” in Wuhan dialect The most common phrase: * Mandarin: 干什么 (gàn shénme) * Wuhan dialect: 告莫斯 (gào mò sī) 💡 Language Tip: “搞” is a super versatile verb in many Chinese dialects. In Northeastern dialect we learned “搞啥呢” (gǎo shá ne). In Wuhan, it’s “搞莫斯” (gǎo mò sī). Same character, different flavor! 00:08:10 – “Suan Niao”: Wuhan’s viral phrase * 蒜鸟 (suàn niǎo) = 算了 (suàn le) – “just forget it” / “let it go” * Why the change? “算” loses the “u” sound in Wuhan dialect → “散” (sǎn) “了” becomes “鸟” (niǎo) * This phrase became famous from videos of Wuhan locals breaking up street arguments * Now you can even buy a plush toy of a little bird with a garlic on its head! 📖 Useful Vocabulary: * 蒜 (suàn) – garlic * 鸟 (niǎo) – bird * 算了 (suàn le) – forget it / never mind * 劝架 (quàn jià) – to mediate an argument * 出圈(chūquān)-go viral * 文创产品(wénchuàng chǎnpǐn)-cultural merchandise 💡 Language Tip: If you visit Wuhan and hear “蒜鸟蒜鸟,” don’t worry—nobody’s talking about garlic birds. They’re just telling someone to calm down! 00:11:10 – “Guo Zao”: The ritual of breakfast * 过早 (guò zǎo) – to have breakfast (Wuhan dialect pronunciation: guǒ zǎo) * The character 过 (guò) is usually used for special occasions: 过年 (New Year), 过节 (holiday), 过生日 (birthday) * Using it for breakfast makes it sound like a special ritual—and in Wuhan, it is! * Wuhan breakfast specialties: 热干面 (rè gān miàn) – hot dry noodles 豆皮 (dòu pí) – tofu skin stuffed with rice and meat 烧麦 (shāo mài) – but in Wuhan they say 烧煤 (shāo méi) 蛋酒 (dàn jiǔ) – egg wine (a sweet rice wine drink) 📖 Useful Vocabulary: * 早餐 (zǎocān) – breakfast * 小吃 (xiǎochī) – snacks / street food * 仪式感(yíshìgǎn)-a sense of ritual 00:14:50 – Why does Wuhan dialect sound “冲” (chòng)? * 冲 (chòng) – direct, aggressive, like you’re rushing or angry * Wuhan dialect sounds this way because: Tones are flat and straight – no rising or falling melodies No retroflex sounds (zh, ch, sh, r) – only z, c, s Example: 膝盖 (xīgài, knee) is 可七头 (kě qī tóu) in Wuhan, while Chongqing dialect sounds softer * Locals joke this matches Wuhan’s hot, humid summers and the city’s famous direct, fiery personality 📖 Useful Vocabulary: * 冲 (chòng) – direct / aggressive (in tone) * 语调 (yǔdiào) – intonation / tone of voice * 性格 (xìnggé) – personality * 脾气 (píqi) – temper 💡 Language Tip: If someone says “你说话很冲” (nǐ shuōhuà hěn chòng), they mean you sound a bit aggressive or confrontational—it’s not always an insult, just an observation about tone. 00:19:30 – 3 Useful Wuhan phrases for travelers * 干什么 (gàn shénme)——告莫斯 (gào mò sī) * 去哪里 (qù nǎlǐ)——克哪里 (kè nǎ lǐ) * 怎么去 (zěnme qù)——莫昂克 (mò áng kè) 📖 Useful Vocabulary: * 旅游 (lǚyóu) – travel / tourism * 问路 (wèn lù) – to ask for directions * 实用 (shíyòng) – practical / useful 💬 Join the Conversation * Have you ever visited Wuhan? What did you think of the city and the people? * What’s your favorite Wuhan food? * Can you think of a phrase in your own language that sounds “冲chòng” (direct/aggressive) to outsiders? * Which city’s dialect should we explore next? Let us know! Leave a comment on your podcast platform or share your thoughts in your Chinese learning group! 📩 Learn Chinese with Chinese Surfing Interested in Chinese classes or program consultation? 📧 Email: info@chinese-surfing.com 💬 WeChat: Chinesesurfing2 Follow us on social media: Instagram & Xiaohongshu: Chinese Surfing 🎁 Free learning materials: 👉 www.chinese-surfing.com 📜 Want the full PDF script of this episode? 📧 Email: daisy@chinese-surfing.com Coming Up Next: More dialect adventures? Or maybe something else—stay tuned!

Welcome back to the second episode of our pet talk series! Teacher Cici returns to share more stories about her beloved cat Tangyuan. This time, we go deeper—beyond breed and eating habits, into the emotional side of living with a pet. This episode is more suitable for intermediate to advanced learners, as we discuss emotions, relationships, and deeper reflections about life with pets. If you've ever loved an animal, you'll find something to connect with here. 🎧 Timestamps & Highlights 00:01:00 – What does Cici do when she visits Tangyuan? Since Cici lives in Hangzhou and Tangyuan is in Changchun, they don't see each other often. When she goes home, she has two "tasks": * 剪指甲 (jiǎn zhǐjia) – Trim his nails – Tangyuan won't let Cici's mom do it, so this is Cici's job * 洗澡 (xǐzǎo) – Give him a bath – Another thing cats usually hate 00:02:15 – What does Cici do for herself? * 亲它 (qīn tā) – Kiss it * 摸它 (mō tā) – Pet it * 抱它 (bào tā) – Hug it * 撸猫 (lū māo) – The all-purpose word for petting/cuddling a cat 💡 Language Tip: "撸猫" is a must-know word for any cat lover in China! It covers all the actions of petting, holding, and playing with a cat. 00:03:00 – Cici's cat allergy Cici wasn't allergic when she first got Tangyuan. The allergy developed about a year later: * Symptoms: 打喷嚏 (dǎ pēntì, sneezing), itchy eyes * Cause: Not actually the fur, but something in cat 唾液 (tuòyè, saliva) that gets on the fur when they groom themselves * Living arrangement: Cici and Tangyuan stay on opposite sides of the room to minimize reactions * But Tangyuan loves sleeping on Cici's bed, so she has to clean a lot! 📖 Useful Vocabulary: * 过敏 (guòmǐn) – allergy / to be allergic * 打喷嚏 (dǎ pēntì) – to sneeze * 唾液 (tuòyè) – saliva * 打扫 (dǎsǎo) – to clean 💡 Language Tip: "我对猫过敏" (Wǒ duì māo guòmǐn) – "I'm allergic to cats." A very useful sentence pattern: 对 + [something] + 过敏. 00:06:00 – Why did Cici get a pet? * She was waiting for graduate school interview results and feeling 压力大 (yālì dà, very stressed) * She and her mom considered adopting a stray cat from their neighborhood, but that cat wasn't interested in humans * So they bought Tangyuan instead * Before getting a cat, Cici often visited 猫咖啡厅 (māo kāfēitīng, cat cafés) to de-stress 📖 Useful Vocabulary: * 压力 (yālì) – pressure/stress * 解压 (jiě yā) – to relieve stress * 流浪猫 (liúlàng māo) – stray cat * 猫咖=猫咖啡厅 (māo kāfēitīng) – cat café 00:08:00 – The positives and negatives of having a pet 正面影响 (zhèngmiàn yǐngxiǎng) – Positive effects: * Reduces stress * Gives you motivation (Cici has a mug that says: "I work hard so my cat can have a better life") 负面影响 (fùmiàn yǐngxiǎng) – Negative effects: * Shedding – cats lose a lot of fur * Destructive behavior – scratching furniture, knocking things off tables * Rental issues – many landlords don't allow pets because of potential damage to the apartment 📖 Useful Vocabulary: * 掉毛 (diào máo) – to shed fur * 淘气 (táoqì) – naughty/mischievous * 弄坏 (nòng huài) – to break/damage 00:09:50 – What role does Tangyuan play in Cici's family? In Cici's family, Tangyuan is her 弟弟 (dìdi, younger brother). 📖 Useful Vocabulary: * 角色 (juésè) – role * 家人 (jiārén) – family member * 弟弟 (dìdi) – younger brother * 互相尊重 (hùxiāng zūnzhòng) – mutual respect 00:11:00 – How to build trust with your pet Cici's number one rule: 不要强迫 (bùyào qiǎngpò) – Don't force them. 📖 Useful Vocabulary: * 强迫 (qiǎngpò) – to force * 信任 (xìnrèn) – trust * 尊重 (zūnzhòng) – to respect * 耐心 (nàixīn) – patience 00:14:00 – If your pet could understand you, what would you say? This is Cici's heartfelt message to Tangyuan: "爸爸妈妈姐姐都很喜欢你，所以你可以多陪我们一段时间嘛？很多很多年。" "Dad, mom, and your sister all love you very much. So can you stay with us longer? For many, many years." 📖 Useful Vocabulary: * 陪 (péi) – to accompany / to stay with * 一段时间 (yī duàn shíjiān) – a period of time After the emotional moment, Cici had one more question for Tangyuan: "你不黏人到底是因为什么？是因为你不喜欢我，还是你真的是一只独立的猫？" "Why aren't you clingy at all? Is it because you don't like me, or are you really just that independent?" 📖 Useful Vocabulary: * 黏人 (nián rén) – clingy (used for people or pets who like to be close to others) * 独立 (dúlì) – independent 00:19:00 – What other pets is Cici interested in? * 仓鼠 (cāngshǔ) – Hamsters (top choice!) * 蛇 (shé) – Snakes * 蜥蜴 (xīyì) – Lizards If you have any of these as pets, Cici wants to hear your stories! 💬 Join the Conversation * Do you have a pet? What role does it play in your family? * If your pet could understand you, what would you say to it? * Are you more of a cat person or a dog person? Why? * Have you ever been to a cat café? What was it like? Leave a comment on your podcast platform or share your story in your Chinese learning group! We might feature your response in a future episode. 📩 Learn Chinese with Chinese Surfing Interested in Chinese classes or program consultation? 📧 Email: info@chinese-surfing.com 💬 WeChat: Chinesesurfing2 👀Follow us on social media: 📺Instagram & Xiaohongshu: Chinese Surfing 🎁 Free learning materials: 👉 www.chinese-surfing.com 📜 Want the full PDF script of this episode? 📧 Email: daisy@chinese-surfing.com

Welcome back to Chinese Surfing Podcast! This episode is perfect for all level learners. If you want to learn how to describe your own pet in Chinese, or if you just enjoy heartwarming cat stories, don't miss this one. Teacher Cici is back! This time, we're talking about something many people love—pets. Cici has a cat living with her family in her hometown, Changchun. His name is Tangyuan. He's a blue-and-white British Shorthair with an independent personality. He's a bit shy around people—just like his owner Cici, he's an "introverted cat." Our conversations will help you learn how to talk about a pet naturally in Chinese. 🎧 Timestamps & Highlights 00:01:30 – Welcoming Teacher Cici back to talk about pets Cici has a cat living with her family in her hometown, Changchun. 00:02:00 – Tangyuan's basic info * 品种 Breed: 英国短毛猫 British Shorthair (often called "英短Yīngduǎn" in Chinese) * 颜色 Color: Blue + white (called "蓝白lán bái" in Chinese) * 名字 Name: 汤圆Tāngyuán (sweet rice dumpling) He came to Cici's home the day before the Lantern Festival His colors reminded Cici of black sesame Tangyuan The name sounds round and cute * Personality: 独立(dúlì, independent), 害羞(hàixiū, shy) "Very cat"—a typical cat personality Doesn't really like people, afraid of strangers Just like his owner Cici, he's an "introverted cat" 📖 Useful Vocabulary: * 宠物 (chǒngwù) – pet * 猫 (māo) – cat * 品种 (pǐnzhǒng) – breed * 性格 (xìnggé) – personality * 独立 (dúlì) – independent * 害羞 (hàixiū) – shy * 害怕 (hàipà) – afraid * i人 / i猫 (i rén / i māo) – introverted person / cat 💡 Language Tip: When introducing a pet in Chinese, you can start with: breed + name + color + personality. For example: "我有一只英国短毛猫，叫汤圆，是蓝白色的，性格很独立。" 00:07:20 – Tangyuan's eating habits * Likes: Chicken, chicken jerky, freeze-dried treats (dry food) * Dislikes: Eggs, anything with water * Doesn't like drinking water: Common in male cats; can cause serious health issues (urinary blockage) * Family's solutions: Syringe-feeding water; tried canned food but Tangyuan won't eat it 📖 Useful Vocabulary: * 喜欢 (xǐhuan) – to like * 不喜欢 (bù xǐhuan) – to dislike * 鸡肉 (jīròu) – chicken * 冻干 (dònggān) – freeze-dried food * 罐头 (guàntou) – canned food * 喝水 (hē shuǐ) – to drink water * 尿闭 (niào bì) – urinary blockage * 喂水 (wèi shuǐ) – to give water (to a pet) 💡 Language Tip: "喜欢/不喜欢 + food" is a super useful pattern. For example: "我的猫喜欢吃鸡肉，不喜欢吃鸡蛋。" 00:12:00 – Tangyuan's "weird" eating habit * He loves to use his paw to scoop kibble out of his bowl and eat it on the floor * He eats little bits whenever he feels hungry * Probably prefers fresh food and doesn't like the smell of the bowl * He has short legs, so scooping food out looks like hard work 📖 Useful Vocabulary: * 扒拉 (bāla) – to pull out / to scoop out (with hands or paws) * 猫粮 (māoliáng) – cat food * 习惯 (xíguàn) – habit * 新鲜 (xīnxiān) – fresh 💡 Language Tip: "扒拉" is a very colloquial word, commonly used in Northeastern China. Learning words like this makes your Chinese sound more natural and native-like. 00:15:00 – Tangyuan's story isn't over yet In this episode, we got to know Tangyuan's basics: name, breed, color, personality, and eating habits. In the next episode, we'll go deeper: * What are Tangyuan's other interesting quirks? * What does Cici do with Tangyuan when they're together? * After years of being a cat owner, what does Cici really think about having a pet? Next episode is更适合 intermediate to advanced learners—stay tuned! ❓ FAQ for Chinese Learners Q1: How do I introduce my pet in Chinese? A1: Start with breed + name + color + personality. For example: "我有一只英国短毛猫，叫汤圆，是蓝白色的，性格很独立。" (I have a British Shorthair cat named Tangyuan. He's blue and white, and very independent.) Q2: What does "扒拉" mean? A2: It's a colloquial word meaning "to pull or scoop something out with your hand or paw." For example: "猫把猫粮从碗里扒拉出来吃。" (The cat scoops the kibble out of the bowl to eat it.) Q3: What if my cat won't drink water? A3: You can try syringe-feeding water or offering wet food (like canned food). If your cat refuses water completely, you should see a vet—it can lead to serious health problems. 💬 Join the Conversation * Have you ever had a pet? What was its name? * What does your pet like to eat? Any weird habits? * Do you want to have a pet? Why or why not? Leave a comment on your podcast platform or share your story in your Chinese learning group! We might answer your question in the next Q&A episode. 📩 Learn Chinese with Chinese Surfing Interested in Chinese classes or program consultation? 📧 Email: info@chinese-surfing.com 💬 WeChat: Chinesesurfing2 Follow us on social media: Instagram & Xiaohongshu: Chinese Surfing 🎁 Free learning materials: 👉 www.chinese-surfing.com 📜 Want the full PDF script of this episode? 📧 Email: daisy@chinese-surfing.com Next Episode Preview: Pet Talk Part 2 – More stories about Cici and Tangyuan, more suitable for intermediate to advanced learners. See you then!

Year of the Horse Special: Learn Chinese with “马” Expressions & New Year Wishes ——Learn Practical Chinese for Chinese New Year with Chinese Surfing. Welcome back to 畅说中文 (Chàng Shuō Zhōngwén) by Chinese Surfing. In this Chinese New Year special episode, we celebrate the Year of the Horse (马年) by learning HSK Chinese vocabulary, common expressions, and New Year wishes related to “马” (horse). Whether you are studying HSK 2, HSK 4, HSK 5–6, or already living in China, this episode helps you: * Understand real Chinese words you hear every day * Learn Chinese idioms used in greetings and wishes * Use practical New Year expressions immediately ⏱ Episode Timeline & Learning Points 00:00–02:00 | Why the Year of the Horse Matters in Chinese Culture In Chinese culture, the horse (马) symbolizes: * Strength * Speed * Good luck * Moving forward This episode uses the Year of the Horse as a theme to help learners connect language with culture, which is one of the best ways to remember Chinese vocabulary. 02:00–05:30 | Basic Word: 马 (mǎ) &生肖 Years * 马 (mǎ) – horse (3rd tone) * The horse is the 7th animal in the Chinese zodiac Horse years include: 2026, 2014, 2002, 1990, 1978, 1966, 1954 Common questions: * 你属马吗？(Are you born in the Year of the Horse?) 03:10–03:50 | Verb Phrase: 骑马 (qí mǎ) * 骑马 – to ride a horse Related verbs: * 骑自行车 (ride a bicycle) * 骑电动车 (ride an e-bike) * 骑摩托车 (ride a motorcycle) Example sentences: * 你会骑马吗？ * 我小时候学过骑马。 03:50–04:50 | Common Expression: 马上 (mǎshàng) ⚠️ A word many Chinese learners misunderstand! * 马上 does not mean “on a horse” * It means very soon Examples: * 我马上来。 * 老师马上就来了。 💡 Tip: Sometimes “马上” is flexible — you can ask politely how long it really means. 05:00–06:25 | Intermediate Vocabulary 马虎 (mǎhu) – careless / not careful * 马虎虎 / 马马虎虎 – so-so Examples: * 他做事有点马虎。 * 学中文不能马虎。 马路 (mǎlù) – road / street Originally named because people used horses for transportation. Examples: * 过马路要小心。 * 下班的时候马路上车很多。 06:30–07:40 | Advanced Level: Chinese Idioms with 马 Perfect for HSK 5–6 learners or anyone interested in idioms. 马到成功 (mǎ dào chéng gōng) * Immediate success * Common祝福 (wish) Examples: * 祝你考试马到成功！ * 祝你新的一年马到成功！ 老马识途 (lǎo mǎ shí tú) * An experienced person knows the way * Trust experience and expertise Learning Chinese with experienced teachers is like 老马识途 — it leads to 马到成功. 07:50–08:30 | Year of the Horse New Year Wishes Common New Year wishes: * 新年快乐 * 恭喜发财 * 万事如意 Year of the Horse wishes: * 一马当先 * 事业一马平川 * 马到成功 Example full blessing: 祝你在马年身体健康，学习进步，马到成功！ 08:50–End | Chinese Surfing Teachers’ New Year Wishes Teachers from Chinese Surfing share their New Year wishes and hopes in simple, natural Chinese — perfect listening practice for learners. 📖 Key Vocabulary Summary * 马 (mǎ) – horse * 骑马(qímǎ) – ride a horse * 马上(mǎshàng) – very soon * 马虎(mǎhu） – careless * 马路(mǎlù) – road * 马到成功(mǎdàochénggōng) – immediate success * 老马识途(lǎomǎshítú) – experience leads the way 💬 Join the Conversation Would you like us to: * Share more Chinese culture episodes? * Teach real-life Chinese used in daily life? * Answer your Chinese learning questions? Leave a comment or send your questions — we may answer them in a future episode! 📩 Learn Chinese with Chinese Surfing For Chinese classes or program consultation: 📧 Email: info@chinese-surfing.com 💬 WeChat: Chinesesurfing2 🎁 Free learning materials: 👉 www.chinese-surfing.com 📜 Want the full PDF script of this episode? Email: daisy@chinese-surfing.com 🎉 Thank you for learning Chinese with us. Happy Chinese New Year — 马到成功, and see you in the next episode!

In this Q&A episode of 畅说中文 (Chàng Shuō Zhōngwén), host Daisy welcomes back beloved teacher Cici from Chinese Surfing Chinese School to answer real questions from Chinese learners. We talk about: * What Chinese people actually say instead of “你好吗” * Affordable and meaningful Chinese-style gift ideas * Why listening to real-life Chinese feels hard, even after passing HSK 3 This episode is ideal for beginner to intermediate Mandarin learners who want to sound more natural, understand daily conversations, and feel less frustrated when listening to native speakers. 🎧 Episode Overview & Timestamps 00:01:00 – How Do Chinese People Really Greet Each Other? Many learners start with “你好吗”, but in daily life, Chinese greetings are much more context-based. Common real-life greetings include: * With colleagues “早啊！” (Zǎo a!) “你吃了吗？” (Nǐ chī le ma?) * With friends “来啦！” (Lái la!) “到啦！” (Dào la!) * With neighbors or acquaintances “出去啊？” (Chūqù a?) “回来啦？” (Huílái la?) 💡 Tip: Chinese greetings often comment on what you see, rather than asking “How are you?” 00:05:00 – What Are Meaningful but Affordable Chinese-Style Gifts? Looking for Chinese gift ideas that are thoughtful and budget-friendly? Cici recommends: * Chinese-style cosmetics (lipsticks with traditional paintings or poetry designs) * Museum cultural products (bags, fans, fridge magnets, or archaeology-themed mystery boxes) * For teachers: gifts related to their hobbies (for example, cat-themed items!) + a handwritten card 🎁 Shopping tip: Many Chinese museums now have online shops offering unique cultural souvenirs. 00:09:00 – Why Is Chinese Listening Still Hard After Passing HSK 3? If you’ve passed HSK 3 but still struggle to understand daily conversations, you’re not alone. Common reasons include: * HSK exams focus on standard language, while daily speech is flexible and colloquial * Dialects and accents vary widely—even Chinese teachers struggle sometimes * Speed, tone changes, and local expressions add difficulty 👂 Encouragement: Don’t stress. Keep listening, ask people to speak Mandarin more slowly, and allow yourself time to adapt. ❓ Frequently Asked Questions (For Chinese Learners) Is “你好吗” commonly used in China? Not really. Native speakers prefer short, situation-based greetings. What gifts are appropriate in Chinese culture? Practical, thoughtful items with cultural meaning are usually appreciated more than expensive gifts. Why does real-life Chinese sound so different from textbook Chinese? Because daily speech includes slang, reductions, accents, and local habits that textbooks can’t fully cover. 💬 Join the Conversation * How do you usually greet your Chinese friends or colleagues? * What’s the best Chinese-style gift you’ve given or received? * Do you also find listening to real-life Chinese challenging? Leave a comment on your podcast platform or share your experience in your Chinese learning community. We may answer your question in the next Q&A episode! 📩 Learn Chinese with Chinese Surfing For Chinese classes or program consultation by texting'CS podcast': 📧 Email: info@chinese-surfing.com 💬 WeChat: Chinesesurfing2 Follow us on social media: Instagram & Xiaohongshu: Chinese Surfing 🎁 Free learning materials: 👉 www.chinese-surfing.com 📜 Want the full PDF script of this episode? Email: daisy@chinese-surfing.com

Welcome back to Chinese Surfing Chinese Podcast! Ever wondered what’s on a Chinese teacher’s playlist? Join host Daisy and the Harry Potter-loving Teacher Ouyang as they embark on a heartfelt, melodic journey through the songs that shaped her youth, mirror her moods, and even help you learn Chinese. From nostalgic anthems to soul-soothing repeats, discover the music behind the teacher—and maybe find your next favorite Chinese song. Timestamps & Key Takeaways 00:02:15 – Starting Point of Musical Memory: 周杰伦Jay Chou & “七里香Qi Li Xiang” Ouyang laoshi recalls Jay Chou’s popularity during her elementary school years and shares how “Qi Li Xiang” became the starting point of her love for Chinese songs. The song depicts a first-love story with a beautiful, soothing melody, perfect for relaxation or rainy days—also a KTV classic. 🎵 Keywords to learn: 周杰伦 (Zhōu Jiélún), 初恋 (chūliàn), 谈恋爱（tán liàn'ài), 旋律 (xuánlǜ),经典(jīngdiǎn) 00:08:40 – Confident KTV Pick: Zeng Yike’s “狮子座Leo” Besides “Qi Li Xiang,” Teacher Ouyang often chooses “Leo” at KTV. She loves its simple rhythm and straightforward lyrics, which make it easy to sing along without requiring much vocal skill. She even sings a snippet live in the episode! 🎤 Keywords to learn: 歌手(gēshǒu), 简单 (jiǎndān), 节奏 (jiézòu), 星座(xīngzuò), 狮子座 (shīzi zuò), 技巧(jìqiǎo), 擅长(shàncháng) 00:14:20 – On-Repeat Favorites: David Tao’s “天天Every Day” & “蝴蝶Butterfly” These days, Ouyang listens more often to David Tao. “Butterfly” was written during a low period, with lyrics about companionship and comfort; “Every Day” is a love song full of imagery, perfect for quiet looping in a café. 🔄 Keywords to learn: 循环 (xúnhuán), 缓慢(huǎnmàn), 安慰 (ānwèi), 抑郁(yìyù), 画面感 (huàmiàn gǎn) 00:22:50 – Mood Representative: The English Song “Winter In My Heart” Recently, an English song reflects Ouyang’s mood, echoing the chill and subdued feelings of winter. The discussion extends to Chinese songs with a similar vibe, like Karen Mok’s “Cloudy Day.” ❄️ Keywords to learn: 冬天 (dōngtiān), 阴天(yīntiān), 情绪 (qíngxù), 氛围 (fēnwéi) 00:28:10 – Treasure Recommendation for Chinese Learners: David Tao’s “爱很简单Love Is Simple” Wearing his teacher hat, Ouyang laoshi specially recommends David Tao’s “Love Is Simple.” The lyrics are simple and easy to understand, with a pleasant melody, making it highly suitable for foreign students to listen and learn from. Daisy also suggests learners check out the song’s comments on NetEase Cloud Music to read and learn some real stories and Chinese expressions. 🧠 Learning Tip: Suitable for intermediate and above learners. Combine listening with reading comments to improve language sense and comprehension. 00:34:00 – Wrap-Up & Listener Interaction Daisy and Ouyang summarize this “warm musical journey” and invite listeners to share their own Chinese song playlists. We’d Love to Hear From You! * What’s your favorite Chinese song or singer in your playlist? Why? * Have you ever sung a Chinese song at KTV? Which one? * Do you use Chinese songs to learn Chinese? Any good methods or recommendations? Leave a comment on the podcast platform or share your thoughts in your Chinese learning community! Learn More or Experience a Chinese Class Course inquiry email: info@chinese-surfing.com WeChat: Chinesesurfing2 Instagram & Xiaohongshu: Chinese Surfing Free learning resources: www.chinese-surfing.com For the full PDF transcript of this episode, please email: daisy@chinese-surfing.com Next Episode Teaser Will Ouyang return with another topic he’s passionate about? Or which teacher would you like to hear from next? Let us know!

Happy New Year! And our new series launched! In this sixth episode, Daisy is joined by the beloved teacher Cici for a practical demonstration of answering HSKK Advanced-level questions around the theme of “holidays.” From weekend routines and one-month holiday plans to how Chinese people spend their vacations, Cici offers natural, fluent responses as examples, and shares fresh lifestyle trends like “reverse tourism.” Whether you're preparing for the HSKK or simply want to learn how to talk about life topics in Chinese, this episode provides authentic and practical language inspiration. Timestamps & Key Takeaways 00:01:30 – Topic 1: Describe how you usually arrange your weekends Cici shares her current and past weekend routines—from time with friends to solo café moments—and discusses personal preferences behind choosing rest days. 📖 Keywords to learn: 自然醒 (zìrán xǐng – wake up naturally), 内向 (nèixiàng – introverted), 放松 (fàngsōng – to relax) 00:07:45 – Topic 2: If you had a one-month holiday, what would you plan to do? Cici unfolds her “dream holiday”: visiting family, fulfilling travel wishes, and reserving time for personal learning and relaxation. 📖 Keywords to learn: 难得 (nándé – rare/hard to come by), 实现 (shíxiàn – to fulfill), 愿望 (yuànwàng – wish) 00:14:20 – Topic 3: Please introduce how people in your country spend their holidays. From short getaways to returning home during long holidays, Cici explains common holiday habits in China and introduces the growing trend of “reverse tourism.” 📖 Keywords to learn: 反向旅游 (fǎnxiàng lǚyóu – reverse tourism), 团圆 (tuányuán – reunion), 热门 (rèmén – popular) 00:22:10 – Extended Discussion: Reverse tourism & underrated city recommendations Cici shares lesser-known destinations suitable for “reverse tourism,” along with cultural features and nearby natural sights like Changbai Mountain. 📖 Keywords to learn: 朝鲜族 (Cháoxiǎnzú – Korean ethnic group), 长白山 (Chángbáishān – Changbai Mountain), 火山口 (huǒshānkǒu – volcanic crater) 00:28:50 – Answering tips recap Daisy and Cici summarize useful techniques for HSKK responses: how to start and end naturally, and how to repeat the question to buy thinking time. 00:31:20 – Listener interaction & teaser We invite you to share your own holiday routines or HSKK preparation experiences in the comments—feel free to ask Cici questions too! We’d love to hear from you! * How do you usually spend your weekends? Any similarities or differences with Cici’s routine? * If you had a one-month holiday, where would you go and what would you do? * How people in your country spend their holidays? Leave a comment on the podcast platform or share your thoughts or speaking recordings in your Chinese learning group! To learn Chinese, inquire about courses, or access free materials: * Website: www.chinese-surfing.com * Email: info@chinese-surfing.com * WeChat: Chinesesurfing2 * Xiaohongshu / Instagram: Chinese Surfing * For a PDF transcript of this episode, email: daisy@chinese-surfing.com

Welcome to our brand new series “聊聊方言” (Let’s Talk Dialects)! In this first episode of the series, join Daisy and Cici as they dive into the lively and popular Dongbei dialect. Whether you've heard it in Chinese comedy, wondered how to speak it, or just want to understand why it’s so well-loved across China, this conversation is for you. Cici shares fun expressions, local insights, and teaches you how to sound like a true Northeasterner—perfect for a trip to Harbin or just for impressing your friends! Stay tuned for more dialect deep-dives in the coming episodes. Timestamps & Key Takeaways 00:01:20 – Topic 1: Where exactly is “Dongbei” (Northeast China)? Teacher Cici clearly explains the three provinces of Northeast China (黑龙江Heilongjiang, 吉林Jilin, 辽宁Liaoning). 00:05:45 – Topic 2: How do you say “like” in the Dongbei dialect? Besides “喜欢 (xǐhuan),” Northeasterners often use “稀罕 (xīhan).” Cici shares two common situations: praising a child as “招人稀罕 (very likable),” or saying “我咋那么稀罕你呢” in a slightly complaining tone (meaning “Why am I doing so much for you?”). 💬 Example sentences: 这孩子真招人稀罕。 / 我咋那么稀罕你呢？ 00:11:30 – Topic 3: Two super useful words in Dongbei dialect Cici introduces two highly frequent words: * “贼 (zéi)”: Not “thief,” but meaning “really, extremely,” as in “贼好吃 (zéi hǎochī-really tasty)” or “贼稀罕 (zéi xīhan-really like).” * “整 (zhěng)”: A versatile verb meaning “do, make, take, etc” as in “整点酒 (zhěng diǎn jiǔ-have some drinks)” or “整完了 (zhěng wán le-finished).” ⚠️ Note: “整” is mostly used among friends in casual settings, not in formal or polite situations like toasting. 00:18:50 – Topic 4: What are the characteristics of the Dongbei dialect? Cici summarizes: * Frequent use of retroflex “-r” sounds (e.g., “天儿 tiānr”). * Direct, quick, and somewhat “hard” tone (e.g., “干哈 gà há” = “干嘛gàn má,” “咋了 zǎ le” = “怎么了”). * Short, concise words (e.g., 啥 shá = 什么, 咋 zǎ = 怎么). 00:25:10 – Topic 5: Practical Dongbei phrases for travelers Cici teaches three handy expressions you can use right away: * Complaining about the cold: “这天儿死冷的！(It’s freezing today!)” * Asking the price: “多少钱？(How much?)” (Pronounce “多” as “duó” with a rising tone.) * Tone change with numbers: “三个, 七个, 八个” (When followed by a measure word with forth tone, “三, 七, 八” change to the second tone.) 00:32:00 – Wrap-up and invitation Cici encourages everyone to ask her more questions about the Dongbei dialect and welcomes you to visit Dongbei to experience the language in real life! We’d Love to Hear From You! * After listening, what Dongbei expression did you learn or find most memorable? * Do you know any interesting words from other Chinese dialects? Share something from your hometown or a dialect you like! * Which Chinese dialects are you interested in? What would you like to hear about in this series? Feel free to leave a comment on the podcast platform or share your thoughts in your Chinese learning community! Contact & Learning Resources * For Chinese course inquiries or a study plan consultation: Email: info@chinese-surfing.com WeChat: Chinesesurfing2 * Free learning materials: www.chinese-surfing.com * Request a full PDF transcript of this episode: daisy@chinese-surfing.com * Follow us on Instagram & Xiaohongshu: @Chinese Surfing