Different regions of China and overseas Chinese have different ways of saying “restroom”. For any foreigner, learning how to ask for the nearest restroom is vital in any country and in any language, and China is no different. However, Beijingers are accustomed to their own habits, so let’s learn about the differences.

洗手间 xi shou jian

This is perhaps the most common way of saying “restroom” in Beijing. Most signs will use these words. Literally, 洗手间 (xi shou jian) means “washing hands room”, but is instinctively known as the restroom. Mainland China most commonly uses 洗手间 (xi shou jian).

厕所 ce suo

This term literally means toilet/lavatory and although it is understandable to all Chinese speakers, it’s not as commonly used in Beijing as it conveys the idea of a stinky dirty toilet as opposed to a restroom. Many overseas Chinese and people of Macao/Hong Kong/Taiwan use this term.

卫生间 wei sheng jian

Lastly, this term is usually synonymous with the word “bathroom”. That’s because its literal meaning is hygienic room. Although it can also mean restroom, this term is used mainly for residences’ private bathrooms where a shower is included. Using this term though has little implications, similar to how English speakers commonly interchange the words restroom and bathroom.