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joyfull answered at 4 months ago

The little shop keepers and drivers can not speak excellent English, but most of them know how to use English to Bargain with the foreigners! They can not speak fluently but can make themselves understood.However, even many Chinese can not speak English, this will never bother the foreign travelers,because China now has Yoyoor Live English Assistance Center. Tel:400-672-YOYO (9696) (06:00-24:00) They can provide useful suggestion to foreign traveler such as where to eat, where to have fun and so on.More Information:http://www.yoyoor.com

lovechina answered at 4 months ago

English is taught in all Chinese schools but most of the population can not speak English. It takes years of full time study for most people to be able to speak English so that they can be understood. Even in the big cities English is very limited.

This a short guide to what level of English can be expected as you explore China.

Tour Guides - All English speaking guides have to have passed a national exanimation and should be quite fluent English speakers. The standard of English spoken by guides in more remote areas like Tibet or the Silk Road may not be as high. Drivers rarely speak English.

Hotels

Tourist Class - Limited English may be available at the reception desk but it is unlikely that any other employees will speak English.

Deluxe Class - English should be available at the reception desk and other employees may speak limited English.

Superior Class - English will may be available at the reception desk and other employees should be able to speak English.

Local Restaurants - Little or no English is spoken at most local restaurants however some may have English menus.

Taxi Drivers - As a rule taxi Drivers do not speak English. Always carry the "Take me to" card from the hotel or ask the hotel to write a note.

Tourist Attractions - As a rule staff at tourist attractions do not speak English.

Local Markets & Shops - No English will be spoken at most local shops. Tourist markets or place with high tourist traffic may have limited English especially "Hello" or "lookie lookie