Takeaway Chinese

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

Chinese American couple Grace and Yongjian returned to China to visit Grace's ancestral hometown in Fujian – and the incredible modernization completely surprised her in the best way. That trip inspired them to travel deeper across cities, the countryside, and explore culinary traditions, uncovering hidden gems along the way. They even share a must-visit spot where you can eat dishes from a different ethnic group at every meal for an entire week.
In this My China Story special, Grace and Yongjian share what it is like to see modern China through the lens of family heritage and fresh discovery.
(05:02) Grace's childhood memories of China vs. the China she saw years later.
(21:17) One travel destination recommended by the couple.

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

When Marina Manuel from Mozambique arrived in China, her daily schedule came with a welcome surprise: four proper meals a day, capped off with midnight "yexiao" (late-night meal). Years later, her journey has taken her from Guangzhou's bustling food scene to Beijing's historic alleyways, mastering everything from delivery apps to local street slang – and she isn't leaving anytime soon as she heads straight into her master's degree.
In this My China Story special, Marina opens up about the real, day-to-day rhythm of being an international student in China.
(00:54) What is "yexiao" in China?
(08:30) Listen to our conversation with Marina!

If you packed your bags and moved across the world today, what kind of life would you want to build?
Forget what you read in the headlines. In My China Story, a special new interview series from the Takeaway Chinese podcast, we sit down with vloggers, founders, artists, and explorers who made the leap to build their lives and careers in China.
From navigating midnight yexiao runs to breaking into high-tech innovation, creative arts, and unexpected professions – these are the candid, personal journeys behind the language.
Whether you are honing your Mandarin skills, gearing up to study abroad, launching a cross-border business, or planning your next adventure off the beaten path, you'll find practical, first-hand insights you won't get from any textbook.