Chinese Sign Language, sign language used in China and culturally related areas
Chinese Sign Language is a communication system used by deaf and hard of hearing people in China, combining hand shapes, movements, and positions to convey meaning. It has its own complete grammatical structure and rules that developed independently from spoken or written Chinese.
Chinese Sign Language developed organically within China's deaf community and was passed down informally through families and schools for generations. Formal recognition and standardization came only in recent decades as society acknowledged its importance for communication and inclusion.
Learners should know that this language relies heavily on spatial and visual elements, and understanding context is key to grasping meaning. Hand positions, movements, and facial expressions work together, so direct visual contact and adequate space are essential when learning or communicating.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.