Whether you're meeting new friends in China or learning Mandarin for fun, one of the best ways to start a conversation is by talking about your hobbies.
In this article, we'll explore some exciting hobbies in Chinese, so you can talk about what you love doing in your free time 🤓
Hobby in Chinese
First things first, let's learn how to say "hobby" in Chinese:
爱好
àihào
hobby
You can also use the word for "interest":
兴趣
xìngqù
interest
NOTE
To spark a friendly conversation, try asking:
10 Cool & Fun
Hobbies in Chinese
Here's a list of 10 awesome hobbies to spice up your vocabulary and make your conversations more interesting:
01. Rock Climbing
A popular weekend activity in Chinese cities — perfect if you're into pushing limits and conquering heights.
攀岩
pānyán
rock climbing
02. Street Photography
Street photography is a favorite hobby for many in China — perfect for those who enjoy walking around, people-watching, and snapping cool pics on the go.
街头摄影
jiētóu shèyǐng
street photography
NOTE
If you're on 小红书 (Xiǎohóngshū), consider pairing your hobby with #citywalk — a trendy activity that's all about exploring cities on foot.
It's a fun way to transform your hobby into a creative lifestyle and share your unique perspective with a wider audience 📸
03. Playing Mahjong
Mahjong (麻将 májiàng) is a fun way to practice Chinese, learn numbers, and bond with locals over tea and laughter.
打麻将
dǎ májiàng
playing mahjong
04. Video Gaming
Online gaming is a massively popular hobby in China, especially among younger generations.
打游戏
dǎ yóuxì
to play videogames
NOTE
Have you tried Chinese games? If not, start with "Black Myth: Wukong" — China's first AAA game inspired by Journey to the West:
| Black Myth: Wukong | Chinese Guide
05. Baking
Whether you're into sourdough or cupcakes, baking is both a delicious and relaxing hobby 🍰
烘焙
hōngbèi
baking
06. Board Games
Great for brainwork and socializing, 桌游 (zhuōyóu) is booming across China.
桌游
zhuōyóu
board games
Chinese cities are full of events where you can meet friends and play games like:
狼人杀 (Lángrén Shā) - Werewolf, or Chinese Mafia
三国杀 (Sānguó Shā) - Killers of the Three Kingdoms
剧本杀 (Jùběn Shā) – Murder Mystery
07. Camping
It's more than just pitching a tent in the woods — camping (露营 lùyíng) is a hobby that helps you to slow down, recharge and reconnect with nature.
露营
lùyíng
camping
NOTE
In the middle of fast-paced city life, a new trend is taking over — urban camping (城市露营 chéngshì lùyíng). Instead of heading to remote mountains or forests, people are now setting up stylish tents on rooftops, balconies, or in scenic urban parks.
08. Yoga
Yoga blends movement, breathing, and mindfulness. Whether it's mat-based or aerial yoga, it's a popular wellness activity all over China.
NOTE
Take a look at some essential Chinese vocabulary for a smooth yoga practice 🧘♀️
09. Handicraft
If you enjoy creating with your hands, 手工艺 (shǒugōngyì) is a relaxing way to unwind after a busy day.
Try these popular crafts:
剪纸 (jiǎnzhǐ) – Chinese paper cutting
刺绣 (cìxiù) – embroidery
编织 (biānzhī) – weaving or knitting
陶艺 (táoyì) – pottery
10. Gardening
Whether you have a backyard, a sunny balcony, or just a few pots on your windowsill, gardening (园艺 yuányì) can be both rewarding and therapeutic 🌿
Even a small balcony can become a green oasis, if you try these popular activities:
种花 (zhòng huā) – planting flowers
种菜 (zhòng cài) – growing vegetables
插花艺术 (chāhuā yìshù) – flower arranging art
Your Turn!
Now that you know how to talk about hobbies in Chinese, let's practice:
Practice with Teachers
Have questions?
Ask us on WeChat!
@thatsmandarin006
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