Hangzhou pre-teen takes English learning to streets

Ning Yuhang takes a photo with an interviewee. [Photo/Tide News]
A 10-year-old boy in Hangzhou is turning heads by practicing English through street interviews with foreign visitors at West Lake.
Every weekend since October, Ning Yuhang has been approaching tourists at the iconic Broken Bridge, asking simple questions about their favorite Chinese food or impressions of China.
Guided by his parents — his father coordinating and his mother filming — the young student has transformed casual conversations into a practical language-learning routine.
What began with hesitation has quickly evolved into confidence. Initially too shy to speak, Ning now engages naturally, asking follow-up questions and even helping visitors find the right words. His interactions have been warmly received, rarely facing rejection.
The idea came from his father, who once struggled with English in the workplace. Hoping his son would use the language in real life, he encouraged hands-on practice beyond textbooks.
So far, Ning has interviewed visitors from nearly 20 countries, documenting his journey on social media. Along the way, he has not only improved his fluency but also built friendships across cultures — proving that language learning can be as simple as starting a conversation.

Ning talks with an interviewee by the West Lake. [Photo/Tide News]
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