Fluent Fiction - Mandarin Chinese

Are you ready to supercharge your Mandarin Chinese listening comprehension? Our podcast is the perfect tool for you. Studies show that the key to mastering a second language is through repetition and active processing. That's why each episode of our podcast features a story in Mandarin Chinese, followed by a sentence-by-sentence retelling that alternates between Mandarin Chinese and English. This approach not only allows you to fully understand and absorb the vocabulary and grammar but also provides a bilingual support to aid your listening comprehension. But we don't stop there. Research in sociolinguistics highlights the importance of culture in language learning, which is why we provide a list of vocabulary words and a transcript of the audio to help you understand the cultural context of the story. And for your convenience, we also include a transcript of the audio to help you refer back to any parts you may have struggled with. And our podcast is not just for language learners, it's also for travelers or people who want to connect with their roots. Are you planning a trip to China? Maybe you want to speak Mandarin Chinese with your friends from Beijing or Shanghai? Our podcast will give you the cultural and linguistic background to fully immerse yourself in China. Our podcast is based on the latest research in linguistics, sociolinguistics, psychology, cognitive science, neuroscience, and education to provide the most effective method for mastering Mandarin Chinese listening comprehension. Don't miss this opportunity, give our podcast a try and see the results for yourself. 今天开始,借助我们的中文故事来提升你的听力理解能力!

  1. 8H AGO

    Unveiling Family Secrets at Beijing's Temple of Heaven

    Fluent Fiction - Mandarin Chinese: Unveiling Family Secrets at Beijing's Temple of Heaven Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more: fluentfiction.com/zh/episode/2025-10-16-22-34-02-zh Story Transcript: Zh: 秋天的北京,天坛在中秋节的灯笼下显得格外辉煌。 En: In the autumn of Beijing, the Temple of Heaven appeared particularly magnificent under the lanterns of the Mid-Autumn Festival. Zh: 莲、明和夏三人一起走进节日的人群,空气中是月饼的香甜和石雕注入的历史气息。 En: Lian, Ming, and Xia walked into the festival crowd together, the air filled with the sweet aroma of mooncakes and the historical ambiance infused by stone carvings. Zh: 莲的目光好奇地扫视四周,她对家族的过去有着强烈的兴趣,总觉得这里藏着什么等待着她去发现。 En: Lian curiously scanned her surroundings; she had a strong interest in her family's past and always felt that something here was waiting for her to discover. Zh: 莲和明是从小一起长大的朋友。 En: Lian and Ming had been friends since childhood. Zh: 明一边啃着豆沙月饼,一边笑着说:“莲,你不会又在找老故事了吧?” En: While Ming was nibbling on a red bean paste mooncake, he laughed and said, "Lian, you're not looking for old stories again, are you?" Zh: “是啊,我觉得这里有个秘密,和我们的家族有关。”莲回答道,她的眼神坚定而充满热情。 En: "Yes, I feel there's a secret here related to our family," Lian replied, her gaze firm and full of enthusiasm. Zh: 明耸了耸肩不置可否。 En: Ming shrugged, neither agreeing nor disagreeing. Zh: 三人走到天坛的一座古老建筑前。 En: The three of them walked to an ancient building in the Temple of Heaven. Zh: 灯笼的光芒下,墙壁上的雕刻仿佛在诉说过去的故事。 En: Under the glow of lanterns, the carvings on the walls seemed to recount stories of the past. Zh: 这时,夏悄声走到莲身边。 En: At this point, Xia quietly approached Lian. Zh: 他是莲的堂兄,对家族历史知之甚详,却总是小心谨慎。 En: He was Lian's cousin and was well-versed in family history, yet always cautious. Zh: “莲,这儿有些事情最好不要去碰。”夏低声说,他显得有些紧张。 En: "Lian, some things here are best left untouched," Xia said softly, looking a bit nervous. Zh: 莲心里清楚,夏是在提醒她那件不为人知的古代神器。 En: Lian knew in her heart that Xia was reminding her of a little-known ancient artifact. Zh: 据说,那个神器与他们家族息息相关,也许藏着一个诅咒。 En: It was said that this artifact was closely linked to their family and possibly harbored a curse. Zh: 但莲心意已决,她想揭开真相,即使冒着可能引发家族争议的风险。 En: But Lian was determined; she wanted to uncover the truth, even at the risk of potentially stirring up family controversy. Zh: 在灯笼的光线下,她看着夏,语气坚定:“不试试怎么知道呢?或许这东西能让我们更了解自己。” En: In the lantern's light, she looked at Xia and said firmly, "How will we know if we don't try? Maybe this thing can help us understand ourselves better." Zh: 终于,莲在天坛的某个角落找到了那个神器。 En: Finally, Lian found the artifact in a corner of the Temple of Heaven. Zh: 它是一个古老的匣子,雕刻着繁复的花纹。 En: It was an ancient box with intricate carvings. Zh: 她小心翼翼地打开匣子,里面竟然藏着一封泛黄的信。 En: She carefully opened the box, and inside was a yellowed letter. Zh: 信中写下了一段家族的故事,那是一个关于过去希望与梦想的故事。 En: The letter recounted a story of the family's hopes and dreams from the past. Zh: 原来,这个神器并没有诅咒,而是家族祖先留下的勇气与爱的象征。 En: It turned out that this artifact was not a curse but a symbol of courage and love left by the family's ancestors. Zh: 莲感动地读完信,眼中闪烁着泪光。 En: Moved by the letter, Lian finished reading it, tears shimmering in her eyes. Zh: 她明白,这一切不仅仅是对过去的追寻,更是对当下生活的努力和希望。 En: She realized that this was not just a pursuit of the past but also an effort and hope for the present life. Zh: 那一晚,在月亮清辉的洒落下,莲重新诠释了自己的身份。 En: That night, under the clear brilliance of the moon, Lian redefined her identity. Zh: 她感谢家族的历史,也坚定了继续传承的决心。 En: She was grateful for her family's history and was determined to continue the legacy. Zh: 莲心中怀着深深的自豪与宁静,仰望那明亮的中秋之月,微笑着与身边的亲人再次分享家族的故事。 En: With deep pride and peace in her heart, Lian looked up to the bright Mid-Autumn Moon, smiling and sharing the family's stories again with her loved ones beside her. Vocabulary Words: autumn: 秋天magnificent: 辉煌lanterns: 灯笼festival: 节日crowd: 人群aroma: 香甜ambiance: 气息scanned: 扫视surroundings: 四周carvings: 雕刻curiously: 好奇地uncover: 揭开artifact: 神器cousin: 堂兄controversy: 争议legacy: 传承intricate: 繁复carved: 雕刻着yellowed: 泛黄pursuit: 追寻effort: 努力courage: 勇气dreams: 梦想gratitude: 感谢pride: 自豪identity: 身份determined: 坚定ancestor: 祖先symbol: 象征gaze: 凝视

    14 min
  2. 22H AGO

    Lost & Found: A Mid-Autumn Tale of Friendship and Hope

    Fluent Fiction - Mandarin Chinese: Lost & Found: A Mid-Autumn Tale of Friendship and Hope Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more: fluentfiction.com/zh/episode/2025-10-16-07-38-20-zh Story Transcript: Zh: 秋天的一个下午,上海的天空微微阴着。 En: One autumn afternoon, the sky over Shanghai was slightly overcast. Zh: 街道上挂满了灯笼,空气中弥漫着月饼的香气。 En: Lanterns hung all over the streets, and the air was filled with the fragrance of mooncakes. Zh: 中秋节的气氛无处不在,然而丽芬却没有心思欣赏。 En: The atmosphere of the Mid-Autumn Festival was everywhere, yet Lifen was in no mood to enjoy it. Zh: 丽芬和她的好朋友梦瑶刚从商场回来,发现她的购物袋不见了,她急得眼泪都快出来了。 En: Lifen and her good friend Mengyao had just returned from the mall when they discovered her shopping bag was missing. Zh: 那个袋子里面有一盒很贵的月饼,是给奶奶的中秋礼物。 En: She was so anxious that she was on the verge of tears. Zh: 她们站在上海繁忙的警察局门口,丽芬的心情忐忑不安。 En: Inside that bag was a box of very expensive mooncakes, which were a Mid-Autumn gift for her grandmother. Zh: “我们去报告失物吧,”梦瑶说,充满信心地推了推丽芬的肩膀,“总会有办法的。 En: They stood at the entrance of the busy Shanghai police station, Lifen feeling uneasy. Zh: ”“可是,警察局这么忙,他们会理会我们吗? En: "Let's report it as lost," Mengyao said confidently, giving Lifen a reassuring push on the shoulder. Zh: ”丽芬低声说。 En: "There will always be a way." Zh: 整个警察局人声嘈杂,电话铃声不断。 En: "But the police station is so busy, will they pay attention to us?" Zh: “试一试吧,总比什么都不做好。 En: Lifen whispered. Zh: ”梦瑶坚持着,她的眼神里满是鼓励。 En: The entire police station was bustling with noise, and the phones were constantly ringing. Zh: 她们走进警察局,遇到了年轻的警察魏。 En: "Let's give it a try, it's better than doing nothing," Mengyao insisted, her eyes full of encouragement. Zh: 魏正在计算机前忙碌,不断接到各种节日相关的报告。 En: They walked into the police station and met a young officer named Wei. Zh: 听到丽芬的遭遇,魏耐心地说:“我可以帮你登记一下丢失的物品。 En: Wei was busy at the computer, receiving various festival-related reports. Zh: 别担心,我们会尽力的。 En: Hearing about Lifen's situation, Wei patiently said, "I can help you register the lost item. Zh: ”丽芬感到一丝希望,尽管还是有些不安。 En: Don't worry, we'll do our best." Zh: 她把购物袋的特征一一描述给了魏。 En: Lifen felt a glimmer of hope, although she was still somewhat uneasy. Zh: 接下来的时间里,丽芬在警察局的长椅上坐着,心中充满了焦虑。 En: She described the features of the shopping bag to Wei in detail. Zh: 突然,她的手机响了,是一个来自警察局的电话。 En: For the next while, Lifen sat on a bench in the police station, filled with anxiety. Zh: 她接起电话,整个世界似乎都暂停了。 En: Suddenly, her phone rang; it was a call from the police station. Zh: “你好,是丽芬小姐吗? En: She picked up the call, and it was as if the whole world paused. Zh: 我们在附近的商场失物招领处找到了你的购物袋。 En: "Hello, is this Miss Lifen? Zh: ”电话那头传来魏的声音。 En: We found your shopping bag at the nearby mall's lost and found," Wei's voice came through the phone. Zh: 丽芬瞬间松了一口气,脸上重新露出了笑容。 En: Lifen breathed a sigh of relief, her face breaking into a smile again. Zh: 她转头对梦瑶说:“找到了! En: She turned to Mengyao and said, "They found it! Zh: 他们真的找到了! En: They really found it!" Zh: ”梦瑶高兴地抱住了她,轻声说:“我就知道会找到的! En: Mengyao happily hugged her and softly said, "I knew they would find it!" Zh: ”几个小时后,丽芬拿到了购物袋,里面的月饼完好无损。 En: A few hours later, Lifen retrieved her shopping bag, with the mooncakes inside perfectly intact. Zh: 她心里的一块石头终于落地。 En: A weight was finally lifted from her heart. Zh: 当晚,中秋月明,人们团聚。 En: That night, under the bright Mid-Autumn moon, people reunited. Zh: 丽芬把月饼送给了奶奶,看着奶奶微笑,她感到无比幸福。 En: Lifen gave the mooncakes to her grandmother, and seeing her grandmother's smile, she felt an immense joy. Zh: 通过这次经历,丽芬意识到朋友的支持有多么重要,她也明白了,有时候信任别人的能力是多么值得。 En: Through this experience, Lifen realized how important a friend's support is, and she also understood how worthwhile it is to trust in other people's abilities. Zh: 在这温馨的节日里,她心存感激,心情也宁静下来。 En: During this warm festival, she felt grateful, and her mood was finally at peace. Vocabulary Words: overcast: 阴着lanterns: 灯笼fragrance: 香气mood: 心思intact: 完好无损anxious: 急verge: 快出来了uneasy: 忐忑不安report: 报告confidently: 充满信心地bustling: 嘈杂encouragement: 鼓励register: 登记reunited: 团聚lifted: 落地describe: 描述glimmer: 一丝support: 支持worthwhile: 值得trust: 信任festivity: 节日nearby: 附近retrieved: 拿到anxiety: 焦虑patience: 耐心constantly: 不断reassuring: 安抚atmosphere: 气氛intense: 无比

    14 min
  3. 1D AGO

    Unraveling the Mysteries of Jiuzhaigou's Enchanted Past

    Fluent Fiction - Mandarin Chinese: Unraveling the Mysteries of Jiuzhaigou's Enchanted Past Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more: fluentfiction.com/zh/episode/2025-10-15-22-34-02-zh Story Transcript: Zh: 在一个色彩斑斓的秋天,玉航来到九寨沟国家公园。 En: In a colorful autumn, Yuhang arrived at Jiuzhaigou National Park. Zh: 他被这里的景色深深吸引。 En: He was deeply captivated by the scenery here. Zh: 湖水碧蓝如宝石,瀑布从山间飞泻而下,森林披上了金黄色的外衣。 En: The lake water was as blue as a gemstone, waterfalls cascading down from the mountains, and the forest wearing a golden yellow coat. Zh: 今天是重阳节,一个适合登高的日子,然而玉航的内心充满好奇与不安。 En: Today is the Chongyang Festival, a day suitable for climbing heights, but Yuhang's heart was filled with curiosity and unease. Zh: 在参观这里的一个古老木屋时,玉航不小心踢到了一本旧书。 En: While visiting an old wooden house here, Yuhang accidentally kicked an old book. Zh: 书籍灰尘满覆,上面写着一些看不懂的字。 En: The book was covered in dust, with some unreadable words written on it. Zh: 玉航拾起这本旧日记本,打开翻阅,却发现里面的字迹隐隐透露着九寨沟的一个隐藏秘密。 En: Yuhang picked up this old diary, opened it, and leafed through it, discovering that the handwriting faintly revealed a hidden secret of Jiuzhaigou. Zh: “这是个机会。 En: "This is an opportunity," Yuhang thought. Zh: ”玉航心想。 En: However, the contents of the diary were incomplete, and the handwriting, worn by time, had become blurred. Zh: 可是,这本日记的内容残缺不全,字迹也经过岁月的打磨,变得模糊不清。 En: Yuhang was hesitant. Zh: 玉航犹豫不决。 En: Should he make an effort to unravel this mystery, or should he give up and focus on the scenery instead? Zh: 他是应该努力解开这个谜团,还是放弃,将注意力放在风景之中? En: Yuhang ultimately decided to pursue these clues. Zh: 玉航最终决定追寻这些线索。 En: He brought along his friends, Mei and Xiaobo. Zh: 他找来了他的朋友梅和小波。 En: On this enigmatic Chongyang Festival, the three of them embarked on an adventure. Zh: 在这个充满谜团的双九节,他们三人一起展开冒险。 En: Mei was a girl with clear logic, good at analysis; Xiaobo, bold yet cautious, was willing to take on challenges. Zh: 梅是个逻辑清晰的女孩,善于分析;小波则胆大心细,勇于挑战。 En: Following the hints in the diary, they ventured deep into Jiuzhaigou. Zh: 他们沿着日记上的提示,走到了九寨沟深处。 En: The autumn sunlight dappled the ground through the leaves, adding a sense of mystery to their investigation. Zh: 秋日的阳光透过树叶斑斑驳驳地照在地上,给他们的调查增添了许多神秘感。 En: Near the Zhuliang Waterfall, they discovered a hidden stream flowing into a concealed cave. Zh: 在珠帘瀑布附近,他们发现了一处隐秘的小溪,溪水流向一处隐蔽的山洞。 En: Entering the cave, Yuhang, Mei, and Xiaobo encountered an ancient carving. Zh: 走进山洞,玉航、梅和小波面前出现一个古老的雕刻。 En: It recorded the life story of an old man. Zh: 这里记录着一位老人的生平故事。 En: Throughout his life, he guarded the secrets of Jiuzhaigou, documenting his experiences in this diary, hoping that one day someone would unravel this mystery. Zh: 他一生守护着九寨沟的秘密,将自己的经历记录在这本日记里,希望有朝一日能有人解开这个谜。 En: The diary's owner was a wise old man. Zh: 日记的主人原是一位智慧的老人,他在他的时代不仅注视着自然的变迁,还感悟到人与自然的真正联系。 En: During his time, he not only observed the changes in nature but also understood the true connection between humans and nature. Zh: 玉航、梅和小波沉默了一会儿。 En: Yuhang, Mei, and Xiaobo were silent for a moment. Zh: 突然间,他们明白了,这不仅仅是一个秘密那么简单,而是九寨沟过去的珍贵历史。 En: Suddenly, they realized that this was not just a simple secret but a valuable part of Jiuzhaigou's past. Zh: 他们将这一发现告诉了公园的管理者,同时写下了这一故事。 En: They informed the park's managers of this discovery and wrote down the story. Zh: 九寨沟的历史不再是一个秘密,而成为了所有来访者的一部分。 En: The history of Jiuzhaigou was no longer a secret but became a part of every visitor's experience. Zh: 玉航通过这次奇妙的经历,明白了历史的价值和个人故事的重要性。 En: Through this wondrous experience, Yuhang understood the value of history and the importance of personal stories. Zh: 他重新找到了属于自己的归属感,也第一次真正体会到人与自然之间的深刻联系。 En: He rediscovered a sense of belonging and, for the first time, truly experienced the profound connection between humans and nature. Zh: 三人沿着返回的路途,九寨沟的秋天变得更加美丽动人。 En: As the three retraced their steps, the autumn in Jiuzhaigou became even more breathtakingly beautiful. Zh: 玉航终于感到心灵的满足,连接过去的点滴,使他焕然一新。 En: Yuhang finally felt a sense of spiritual fulfillment, with the pieces of the past connecting, renewing him. Zh: 今天的重阳节,是一个开始,而不只是结束。 En: Today's Chongyang Festival was a beginning, not just an end. Vocabulary Words: autumn: 秋天captivated: 吸引curiosity: 好奇unease: 不安diary: 日记faintly: 隐隐blurred: 模糊hesitant: 犹豫不决unravel: 解开enigmatic: 谜团adventure: 冒险bold: 胆大cautious: 心细venture: 走到dappled: 斑斑驳驳concealed: 隐蔽carving: 雕刻guarded: 守护connection: 联系profound: 深刻spiritual: 心灵fulfillment: 满足documenting: 记录wondrous: 奇妙belonging: 归属感breathtakingly: 美丽动人mystery: 秘密opportunity: 机会golden: 金黄色gemstone: 宝石

    16 min
  4. 1D AGO

    Autumn Reunion on the Changcheng: A Journey to Reconciliation

    Fluent Fiction - Mandarin Chinese: Autumn Reunion on the Changcheng: A Journey to Reconciliation Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more: fluentfiction.com/zh/episode/2025-10-15-07-38-20-zh Story Transcript: Zh: 在一个金色的秋天早晨,阳光柔和地洒在长城上。 En: On a golden autumn morning, the gentle sunlight was softly spilling over the Changcheng. Zh: 树叶在微风中轻轻摇曳,满山的五彩缤纷似乎在为重阳节庆祝。 En: Leaves were swaying gently in the breeze, and the vibrant colors covering the mountains seemed to be celebrating the Chongyang Festival. Zh: 雷和明正在长城上徒步旅行,呼吸着清新的空气,享受着这难得的节日休闲。 En: Lei and Ming were hiking on the Changcheng, breathing in the fresh air and enjoying this rare holiday leisure. Zh: 雷天性冒险,步伐轻快。 En: Lei is naturally adventurous, with a brisk pace. Zh: 他和好朋友明一起来这里散心。 En: He came here with his good friend Ming to unwind. Zh: 明总是个顾虑周到的人,他的细腻使雷感到踏实。 En: Ming is always a thoughtful person, whose meticulous nature gives Lei a sense of reassurance. Zh: 突然,远远地,一个熟悉的身影映入雷的眼帘。 En: Suddenly, a familiar figure caught Lei's eyes from afar. Zh: 他的心猛然一跳,那是他的哥哥,已经多年未见。 En: His heart skipped a beat—it was his brother, whom he hadn't seen in many years. Zh: 雷心里涌起一股莫名的愤怒和失落。 En: A surge of inexplicable anger and loss welled up in Lei's heart. Zh: 从小,他的哥哥对他影响深远,但后来不知为何离开了家。 En: Since childhood, his brother had a profound influence on him, but then, for some unknown reason, he left home. Zh: 雷一直想知道原因,却始终没有机会。 En: Lei had always wanted to know the reason but never had the chance. Zh: 明看出了雷的犹豫和挣扎,他微笑着说:“也许这就是个合适的机会。 En: Ming noticed Lei's hesitation and struggle, and with a smile, he said, "Maybe this is a suitable opportunity. Zh: 重阳节是团圆的节日,试着和他聊聊吧。 En: Chongyang Festival is a time for reunion; try talking to him. Zh: 和解也许会让你更安心。” En: Reconciliation might bring you peace of mind." Zh: 雷踌躇不决, En: Lei was indecisive. Zh: 他想知道实情,却又害怕揭开旧伤。 En: He wanted to know the truth but was afraid to reopen old wounds. Zh: 但这次,他决定听从朋友的建议。 En: However, this time, he decided to follow his friend's advice. Zh: 他走近哥哥,迎着冷冽的秋风,开口道:“哥哥,那时候你为什么离开?” En: He approached his brother, facing the chilly autumn wind, and said, "Brother, why did you leave back then?" Zh: 哥哥显得有些意外,但随即露出了歉意的神情。 En: His brother appeared somewhat surprised but quickly showed a look of apology. Zh: “那时候,我太年轻,不知道如何面对那些压力。 En: "Back then, I was too young and didn't know how to deal with the pressures. Zh: 我走错了路,但是一直很惦记家。” En: I took a wrong path, but I always missed home." Zh: 长城上,兄弟俩在这静谧的秋季风景里聊了很久。 En: On the Changcheng, the two brothers talked for a long time amidst the tranquil autumn scenery. Zh: 随着阳光一点点偏斜,雷渐渐释怀。 En: As the sunlight gradually shifted, Lei slowly found relief. Zh: 哥哥的离开虽然带来了痛苦,但今天的对话让他心里的结终于解开。 En: Although his brother's departure brought pain, today's conversation finally untied the knot in his heart. Zh: 夕阳西下时,雷微笑着和哥哥说:“过去的就让它过去吧,我们以后还要好好联络。” En: As the sun set in the west, Lei smiled and said to his brother, "Let's let the past go, and let's keep in touch from now on." Zh: 在绵延的长城上,雷的心里终于找到了一份宁静与和解。 En: On the sprawling Changcheng, Lei finally found a sense of peace and reconciliation in his heart. Zh: 他决心与哥哥一起书写新的家庭篇章。 En: He was determined to write a new family chapter with his brother. Zh: 明站在一旁,欣慰地看着这一切。 En: Ming stood by, watching everything with satisfaction. Zh: 他知道雷已豁然开朗,正像秋天的长城一样,美丽却坚固。 En: He knew that Lei had come to a moment of realization, much like the Changcheng in autumn—beautiful yet strong. Zh: 这个重阳节,他们不仅收获了秋日的美景,更收获了心灵的平和与重聚的欣喜。 En: This Chongyang Festival, they not only harvested the beauty of autumn but also the peace of mind and joy of reunion. Vocabulary Words: gentle: 柔和swaying: 摇曳vibrant: 五彩缤纷brisk: 轻快meticulous: 细腻reassurance: 踏实familiar: 熟悉inexplicable: 莫名indecisive: 踌躇不决tranquil: 静谧apology: 歉意realization: 豁然开朗untied: 解开reconciliation: 和解sprawling: 绵延determined: 决心reunion: 团圆unwind: 散心profound: 深远hesitation: 犹豫struggle: 挣扎opportunity: 机会pressure: 压力relief: 释怀chapter: 篇章adventurous: 冒险breeze: 微风chilly: 冷冽satisfaction: 欣慰harvested: 收获

    14 min
  5. 2D AGO

    A Lantern's Glow: Finding Home in Lijiang's Autumn Nights

    Fluent Fiction - Mandarin Chinese: A Lantern's Glow: Finding Home in Lijiang's Autumn Nights Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more: fluentfiction.com/zh/episode/2025-10-14-22-34-02-zh Story Transcript: Zh: 秋天的丽江古城,空气中弥漫着桂花的香味。 En: In the autumn of Lijiang Ancient Town, the air is filled with the scent of osmanthus flowers. Zh: 月圆夜,天上挂着一轮明月,照亮了石板路。 En: On a full moon night, a bright moon hangs in the sky, illuminating the cobblestone streets. Zh: 古城的街道两旁挂满了色彩斑斓的灯笼, En: Colorful lanterns are hung along both sides of the ancient town's streets. Zh: 热闹的集市上,人来人往,大家都在为中秋节做着准备。 En: In the bustling market, people come and go, all preparing for the Mid-Autumn Festival. Zh: 在这个热闹的夜晚,李伟站在巷子口,手里捧着一个还没点燃的灯笼。 En: On this lively night, Li Wei stood at the entrance of an alley, holding an unlit lantern. Zh: 李伟是一个刚到丽江工作的年轻人,他常常感到孤独,想念远方的家。 En: Li Wei is a young man who just came to Lijiang to work, and he often feels lonely, missing his distant home. Zh: 在这个欢庆的时刻,他却觉得自己像个局外人。 En: During this festive time, he felt like an outsider. Zh: 李伟在街上徘徊。 En: Li Wei wandered the streets. Zh: 他看见一家店铺门口,梅玲正在忙碌。 En: He saw Mei Ling busy at the entrance of a store. Zh: 梅玲是土生土长的丽江人,她对每一个节日的传统都了如指掌, En: Mei Ling is a native of Lijiang and knows all about every festival tradition. Zh: 也喜欢在节日里迎接和帮助新来的人。 En: She also enjoys welcoming and helping newcomers during festivals. Zh: 李伟注意到梅玲笑容满面,和家人一起将一个个灯笼挂起。 En: Li Wei noticed Mei Ling with a smiling face, hanging up lanterns with her family. Zh: “你好,需要帮忙吗?”梅玲靠近李伟,打破了他的沉默。 En: "Hello, do you need some help?" Mei Ling approached Li Wei, breaking his silence. Zh: 李伟犹豫了一下,点了点头。 En: Li Wei hesitated for a moment and then nodded. Zh: “那我们一起点亮灯笼吧!”梅玲说。 En: "Then let's light the lantern together!" Mei Ling said. Zh: 李伟点燃了手中的灯笼,看着它随着热气慢慢升起。 En: Li Wei lit the lantern in his hand, watching it slowly rise with the heat. Zh: 他的心也随之轻松了一些。 En: His heart felt a little lighter too. Zh: 夜色渐深,许多人汇聚在广场上,准备放飞灯笼。 En: As the night deepened, many people gathered in the square, preparing to release the lanterns. Zh: 梅玲把李伟拉到人群中央,微笑着对他说:“放心,大胆地放飞吧,这代表我们新的开始和希望。” En: Mei Ling pulled Li Wei to the center of the crowd, smiling as she said, "Don’t worry, release it with confidence. This represents our new beginning and hope." Zh: 李伟深吸一口气,和梅玲一起放飞了灯笼。 En: Taking a deep breath, Li Wei released the lantern with Mei Ling. Zh: 灯笼明亮,徐徐上升,和其他灯笼一起装点了夜空。 En: The bright lantern gracefully ascended, decorating the night sky alongside the others. Zh: 那一刻,李伟感到了一种久违的温暖和归属感。 En: In that moment, Li Wei felt a long-lost warmth and sense of belonging. Zh: 在灯笼飞得越来越高的时候,李伟忽然觉得,丽江并不再陌生。 En: As the lantern rose higher and higher, Li Wei suddenly realized that Lijiang no longer felt unfamiliar. Zh: 这座城,这些人,对他而言,也变得亲切而熟悉。 En: This town, these people, became dear and familiar to him. Zh: 月亮的光辉照耀下,李伟的脸上绽开了笑容。 En: Under the moon’s glow, a smile spread across Li Wei's face. Zh: 从那夜起,李伟决定积极参与更多的活动,认识更多的朋友。 En: From that night on, Li Wei decided to actively participate in more activities and meet more friends. Zh: 他懂得,只要心开放,任何地方都可以成为新的家。 En: He understood that as long as his heart was open, any place could become a new home. Zh: 梅玲的善意和灯笼的升起,带给了他莫大的勇气和希望。 En: Mei Ling's kindness and the rising of the lantern gave him great courage and hope. Zh: 丽江的秋夜,有了家的味道。 En: The autumn nights of Lijiang had the taste of home. Vocabulary Words: autumn: 秋天cobblestone: 石板路lantern: 灯笼bustling: 热闹lively: 欢庆alley: 巷子unlit: 没点燃lonely: 孤独outsider: 局外人wandered: 徘徊native: 土生土长tradition: 传统hesitated: 犹豫silence: 沉默ascended: 升起confidence: 信心represents: 代表realized: 意识到unfamiliar: 陌生dear: 亲切actively: 积极participate: 参与courage: 勇气festive: 节日的release: 放飞glow: 光辉welcoming: 迎接ascended: 徐徐上升square: 广场belonging: 归属感

    14 min
  6. 2D AGO

    Secrets Under the Moon: A Forbidden City Adventure

    Fluent Fiction - Mandarin Chinese: Secrets Under the Moon: A Forbidden City Adventure Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more: fluentfiction.com/zh/episode/2025-10-14-07-38-20-zh Story Transcript: Zh: 在中秋节的第一天,故宫的大门外,红色的灯笼高高挂起,点亮了这座古老的城市。 En: On the first day of the Zhongqiujie Mid-Autumn Festival, outside the gates of the Gugong Forbidden City, red lanterns were hung high, illuminating the ancient city. Zh: 秋风轻轻吹拂,地上的落叶随风舞动。 En: The autumn breeze gently blew, causing the fallen leaves on the ground to dance with the wind. Zh: 成群结队的游客穿梭在宏伟的建筑之间,空气中弥漫着月饼的甜香。 En: Groups of tourists wove in and out between the majestic structures, and the air was filled with the sweet aroma of yuebing mooncakes. Zh: 莲是个来北京旅行的历史爱好者,但她心里藏着一个秘密。 En: Lian Lian is a history enthusiast traveling in Beijing, but she's keeping a secret in her heart. Zh: 她不是只为赏景而来,她在寻找一个传说中的失落文物。 En: She didn't come just to enjoy the sights; she's searching for a legendary lost artifact. Zh: 据说,这件宝物藏在故宫的某个秘密角落。 En: It's said that this treasure is hidden in some secret corner of the Gugong Forbidden City. Zh: 莲听说这个文物拥有改变历史的秘密,她决心找到它。 En: Lian heard that the artifact holds secrets capable of changing history, and she's determined to find it. Zh: 一路上,莲小心避开了保安陈的注视。 En: Along the way, Lian carefully avoided the watchful eyes of Chen, the security guard. Zh: 陈不迷信,但他对故宫的每一个文物都格外重视,不容许任何人打它们的主意。 En: Chen isn't superstitious, but he is especially attentive to each artifact in the Gugong Forbidden City, not allowing anyone to have designs on them. Zh: 莲觉得,若想成功,她需要找到一个合适的帮手。 En: Lian thought that to succeed, she needed to find a suitable helper. Zh: 正当她在一条用石砖铺成的小道上徘徊的时候,她听到导游梅在向游客讲解。 En: Just as she was wandering on a little path paved with stone bricks, she heard a tour guide, Mei, explaining to tourists. Zh: 梅是个专注的历史学者,她的知识渊博且充满热情。 En: Mei is a dedicated historian, with vast knowledge and enthusiasm. Zh: 莲心生一计,她需要梅的帮助。 En: Lian had an idea; she needed Mei's help. Zh: 旅游团离去后,莲走向梅,表明了自己的来意。 En: After the tour group left, Lian approached Mei and expressed her intentions. Zh: 梅的眼中闪过一丝惊讶,但她也是个渴望了解真相的人。 En: A hint of surprise flashed in Mei's eyes, but she, too, was someone eager to discover the truth. Zh: 梅想了想,点了点头。 En: Mei thought for a moment and nodded. Zh: 夜幕降临,故宫被灯光笼罩。 En: As night fell, the Gugong Forbidden City was enveloped in lights. Zh: 莲和梅沿着一条隐秘的小径向一个鲜为人知的方向走去。 En: Lian and Mei walked along a hidden path to a little-known direction. Zh: 凭借梅的指引,她们找到了一个隐藏的入口,通往一间古老的密室。 En: With Mei's guidance, they found a concealed entrance leading to an ancient secret chamber. Zh: 但就在她们准备进入的时候,陈出现在她们面前。 En: But just as they were about to enter, Chen appeared before them. Zh: “你们在这里做什么? En: "What are you doing here?" Zh: ”陈皱着眉头问。 En: Chen asked, frowning. Zh: 梅勇敢地站出来解释,她们是在寻找一个被遗忘的历史真相,而不是破坏故宫。 En: Mei bravely stepped forward to explain that they were seeking a forgotten historical truth, not intending any harm to the Gugong Forbidden City. Zh: 听完她们的叙述后,陈沉默了片刻。 En: After listening to their explanation, Chen was silent for a moment. Zh: 虽然半信半疑,但他被她们的决心打动。 En: Though half-believing, he was moved by their determination. Zh: 最终,陈决定不再过问,转身离去。 En: Ultimately, Chen decided not to inquire further and turned away. Zh: 莲和梅步入密室,眼前露出一个尘封已久的文物。 En: Lian and Mei stepped into the secret chamber, where there lay a long-buried artifact. Zh: 它的存在揭示了一段被人遗忘的辉煌历史,足以改变曾经流传的故事。 En: Its existence revealed a glorious history that had been forgotten, enough to change the stories that had been passed down. Zh: 莲满怀敬意地凝视着它,心中充满了对历史更深的理解。 En: Lian gazed at it with reverence, filled with a deeper understanding of history. Zh: 当莲和梅走出故宫时,中秋的月亮已高挂天际,灯笼点点。 En: As Lian and Mei exited the Gugong Forbidden City, the Mid-Autumn moon was already high in the sky, lanterns dotting the night. Zh: 莲知道,这段奇妙的探险将伴随她一生,历史的复杂与人心的奥秘,她将从此铭记于心。 En: Lian knew that this wonderful adventure would accompany her for a lifetime, the complexities of history and the secrets of human nature forever etched in her heart. Zh: 故事的终点,是一种新的开始。 En: The end of the story is a new beginning. Vocabulary Words: illuminating: 点亮majestic: 宏伟artifact: 文物legendary: 传说中的corner: 角落hidden: 隐藏suitable: 合适paved: 铺成dedicated: 专注的historian: 历史学者intentions: 来意reverence: 敬意glorious: 辉煌concealed: 隐藏的entrance: 入口chamber: 密室determination: 决心watchful: 注视explanation: 解释attentive: 重视discover: 了解superstitious: 迷信truth: 真相guide: 指引frowning: 皱着眉头forgotten: 被人遗忘intent: 打主意aura: 气息accompany: 伴随wander: 徘徊

    15 min
  7. 3D AGO

    Mooncakes Over Miles: A Love Story Across Continents

    Fluent Fiction - Mandarin Chinese: Mooncakes Over Miles: A Love Story Across Continents Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more: fluentfiction.com/zh/episode/2025-10-13-22-34-02-zh Story Transcript: Zh: 秋天的黄昏,暖色的灯光从窗户射进来。 En: In the autumn dusk, warm-colored light streamed in through the window. Zh: 丽华坐在北京的小公寓里,脸上有些疲惫。 En: Lihua sat in her small apartment in Beijing, a hint of fatigue on her face. Zh: 她看着桌上一盒月饼,心里想着远在温哥华的君。 En: She looked at a box of mooncakes on the table, thinking of Jun, who was far away in Vancouver. Zh: 今年又是中秋节,他们仍然不能在一起。 En: This year, once again during the Mid-Autumn Festival, they couldn't be together. Zh: 丽华希望能和君分享这个特别的节日。 En: Lihua hoped to share this special holiday with Jun. Zh: 君在温哥华的画室里忙碌,他有个特别计划。 En: Jun was busy in his studio in Vancouver, working on a special plan. Zh: 那是个小公寓,窗外能看见城市的灯光。 En: It was a tiny apartment where city lights could be seen outside the window. Zh: 全是艺术用品的房间,气氛温馨、散乱。 En: The room was full of art supplies, creating a warm and scattered atmosphere. Zh: 君想让丽华感觉到温暖和爱,虽然相隔万里。 En: Jun wanted Lihua to feel warmth and love, even though they were separated by thousands of miles. Zh: 在节日前,丽华精心准备了一个包裹。 En: Before the festival, Lihua carefully prepared a package. Zh: 里面有月饼,还有一封亲手写的信。 En: Inside were mooncakes and a handwritten letter. Zh: 信中,她写了对节日的思念和对君的爱。 En: In the letter, she wrote about missing the festival and her love for Jun. Zh: 她希望,这份礼物能让距离不再那么可怕。 En: She hoped this gift could make the distance less daunting. Zh: 在另一端,君接到包裹,心里充满温馨。 En: On the other end, Jun received the package, filled with warmth. Zh: 他决定在视频通话中给丽华一个惊喜。 En: He decided to surprise Lihua during a video call. Zh: 他准备了一幅特别的画,是月亮和他们俩的肖像。 En: He prepared a special painting, depicting the moon and portraits of the two of them. Zh: 他还计划了一场虚拟赏月会。 En: He also planned a virtual moon-viewing event. Zh: 节日那天晚上,两个人在线上见面。 En: On the night of the festival, the two met online. Zh: 房间里满是温暖的灯光,温暖的问候。 En: The room was filled with warm light and warm greetings. Zh: 他们谈论转瞬即逝的种种,分享笑声。 En: They talked about fleeting moments and shared laughter. Zh: 但是,就在君将要展示他的画作时,北京这边突然停电了。 En: But just as Jun was about to reveal his artwork, the power went out in Beijing. Zh: 丽华的屏幕忽然一片黑暗,她焦急不已,屏幕另一端的君也是满心无奈。 En: Lihua's screen suddenly went dark, and she was filled with anxiety, while on the other end, Jun was equally helpless. Zh: 但君灵机一动,他决定用丽华信中的话做一个小故事。 En: But Jun had a sudden inspiration and decided to create a small story using the words from Lihua's letter. Zh: 在那断电的时刻,他用电话给她讲述信中的内容,再次拉近了彼此的心。 En: In that moment of darkness, he told her the content of the letter over the phone, once again closing the distance between their hearts. Zh: 不久后,电力恢复,丽华见到了君准备的作品。 En: Not long after, the power was restored, and Lihua saw the artwork Jun had prepared. Zh: 那是他们共同的梦,他用心创作,用情感连接。 En: It was their shared dream, created with care and emotional connection. Zh: 他们屏住呼吸分享着这份温暖的时光。 En: They held their breath as they shared this warm moment. Zh: 尽管困境重重,他们学会用心感受彼此。 En: Despite the challenges, they learned to feel each other with their hearts. Zh: 丽华体会到,远距离的爱情需要细致入微的经营,也很甜蜜。 En: Lihua realized that long-distance love requires meticulous nurturing and can be very sweet. Zh: 君则明白,文化的情感传递需更多倾听和理解。 En: Jun understood that the transmission of cultural emotions requires more listening and understanding. Zh: 视频通话结束,他们在同一片星空下约定:不论有多远,他们都会用各自的艺术和传统,创造更美好的未来。 En: When the video call ended, they made a promise under the same starry sky: no matter the distance, they would use their respective arts and traditions to create a more beautiful future. Vocabulary Words: dusk: 黄昏fatigue: 疲惫daunting: 可怕fleeting: 转瞬即逝anxiety: 焦急inspiration: 灵机一动meticulous: 细致入微art supplies: 艺术用品apartment: 公寓transmission: 传递scattered: 散乱portraits: 肖像nurturing: 经营cultural: 文化holiday: 节日plan: 计划studio: 画室restored: 恢复breath: 屏住呼吸challenge: 困境sky: 星空tradition: 传统starry: 星virtual: 虚拟moon-viewing: 赏月emotional: 情感atmosphere: 气氛share: 分享handwritten: 亲手写的scenery: 景象

    14 min
  8. 3D AGO

    Virtual Lanterns Ignite an Unbreakable Mid-Autumn Bond

    Fluent Fiction - Mandarin Chinese: Virtual Lanterns Ignite an Unbreakable Mid-Autumn Bond Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more: fluentfiction.com/zh/episode/2025-10-13-07-38-20-zh Story Transcript: Zh: 秋天的一个晚上,月亮高高挂在天空, En: One autumn evening, the moon hung high in the sky. Zh: 繁忙的聊天室里,“叮咚”声不断。 En: In a busy chat room, the "ding" sounds were incessant. Zh: 屏幕上,闪烁的文字和表情符号让人眼花缭乱。 En: On the screen, the flashing text and emojis were dazzling. Zh: 在这个热闹的虚拟空间里,久未联系的朋友梁和欣怡终于相聚。 En: In this lively virtual space, Liang and Xinyi, friends who hadn't spoken in a while, finally reunited. Zh: 梁是个爱计划的人,但总是突发奇想。 En: Liang is someone who loves planning but is always full of sudden ideas. Zh: 当他想到即将到来的中秋节,一股怀旧感涌上心头。 En: When he thought of the upcoming Mid-Autumn Festival, a feeling of nostalgia surged in his heart. Zh: 他很想和欣怡分享这个节日的传统,即便相隔千里。 En: He wanted to share the traditions of this festival with Xinyi, even though they were thousands of miles apart. Zh: 与此同时,生活有些单调的欣怡,总是担心自己会被人遗忘。 En: At the same time, Xinyi, whose life was somewhat monotonous, was always worried about being forgotten. Zh: 她渴望维持深厚的友情。 En: She longed to maintain a deep friendship. Zh: 时差和技术问题让两人很难找到同步的时间进行视频聊天。 En: Time differences and technical issues made it difficult for them to find a synchronized time for video chatting. Zh: 一灯如豆,梁决定在网络摄像头前制作一场自制灯笼展示,给欣怡一个惊喜。 En: With a light no brighter than a bean, Liang decided to create a homemade lantern display in front of the webcam to surprise Xinyi. Zh: 而欣怡犹豫着,要不要坦诚面对自己内心的孤独感。 En: Meanwhile, Xinyi hesitated, wondering whether to face her feelings of loneliness honestly. Zh: 摄像头另一端,欣怡看到梁的脸上露出期盼的笑容,心里有了些温暖。 En: On the other end of the webcam, Xinyi saw the expectant smile on Liang's face, which brought some warmth to her heart. Zh: 灯笼的微光透过像素,扇子型、莲花型的灯笼缓缓亮起,温馨又雅致。 En: The faint light of the lanterns, in the shape of fans and lotus flowers, gently lit up, warm and elegant. Zh: 终于,欣怡深吸了一口气,“梁,有时候我的确觉得很孤单。” En: Finally, Xinyi took a deep breath and said, 'Liang, sometimes I do feel very lonely.' Zh: 突然间,她觉得轻松了很多。 En: Suddenly, she felt much lighter. Zh: 梁点亮最后一个灯笼,说道:“这灯是给我们友谊的,希望总在灯火中。” En: Liang lit the last lantern and said, 'This lantern is for our friendship, a hope always in the light.' Zh: 那一刻,房间不再只是闪烁的文字和表情符号,而是融合了温暖的光和真诚的心。 En: At that moment, the room was no longer just flashing text and emojis but a blend of warm light and sincere hearts. Zh: 两人都感受到了深深的情谊,快乐地聊着彼此的生活,愿意去包容面临的挑战。 En: Both of them felt a deep friendship, happily chatting about each other's lives, willing to embrace the challenges ahead. Zh: 到了告别的时刻,梁和欣怡郑重地约定,每个月至少一次的视频聊天,将中秋节的温情延续。 En: When it was time to say goodbye, Liang and Xinyi solemnly agreed to have a video chat at least once a month, extending the warmth of the Mid-Autumn Festival. Zh: 对梁来说,他明白除了家庭传统,口头上的关心也是一种重要的联系。 En: For Liang, he realized that besides family traditions, verbal concern is also an important connection. Zh: 欣怡在这个过程里学到了一个重要的道理:表达情感并不是软弱,而是一种力量,尤其是在坚固的友谊面前。 En: Xinyi learned an important lesson in the process: expressing emotions is not weakness, but a strength, especially in the face of strong friendship. Zh: 就这样,这个秋天,属于他们的中秋庆典在虚拟的光影中圆满落幕,而友情如同龙灯般炫目而温暖。 En: And so, this autumn, their Mid-Autumn celebration concluded perfectly in the virtual light and shadows, and their friendship was as dazzling and warm as a dragon lantern. Vocabulary Words: nostalgia: 怀旧感surged: 涌上monotonous: 单调synchronized: 同步的hesitated: 犹豫expectant: 期盼elegant: 雅致solemnly: 郑重地verbal: 口头上的concern: 关心illuminate: 点亮embrace: 包容declaration: 表示incessant: 不断dazzling: 眼花缭乱virtual: 虚拟reunited: 相聚lantern: 灯笼maintain: 维持challenges: 挑战fragility: 脆弱deep: 深厚process: 过程lesson: 道理constellation: 星座faint: 微光concluded: 落幕display: 展示traditional: 传统strength: 力量

    13 min

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