July 9, 2026 · 星期四
Chinese Chess
象棋· chess; any strategy game
Today’s episode with Jason & AmyXiàngqí is a cultural symbol of strategy and social interaction in China.
Chinese Chess
象棋xiàng qí
Chinese Chess, known as Xiàngqí (象棋), is a beloved pastime that has deep roots in Chinese culture. The game is played on a board divided by a symbolic 'river', with each side representing an army [1]. The objective is to capture the opponent's 'general', similar to the king in Western chess. Xiàngqí is not just a game but a reflection of strategic thinking and patience, cherished by players of all ages.
The origins of Xiàngqí are steeped in history, with influences from ancient military strategies. It is believed to have been developed during the Warring States period, evolving over time to the version we see today [2]. The game is played with pieces that represent different military roles, such as soldiers, cannons, and elephants, each with its own movement rules. This diversity in piece roles adds a layer of complexity and excitement to the game.
Xiàngqí is often played in parks, where people gather to watch and participate in matches. These gatherings are social events, allowing players to showcase their skills and engage in friendly competition. The game is not only a test of strategic ability but also a way to connect with others and enjoy a shared cultural tradition. On July 9, 2026, a day in the Year of the Horse, it’s a perfect occasion to celebrate the spirit of Xiàngqí and its role in bringing communities together.
Xiàngqí is a cultural symbol of strategy and social interaction in China.
我们一起下棋。
Wǒmen yīqǐ xià qí.
Let's play chess together.
- [1] UNESCO inscription: Traditional games and sports, 2010
- [2] Zhouyi (Book of Changes), an ancient Chinese text on strategy
Jason & Amy on 棋
Podcast: Daily Chinese: 棋 — Chinese Chess
Jason & Amy on 棋 and Chinese Chess
New here?
我喜欢下棋。
Wǒ xǐhuān xià qí.
I like playing chess.
A simple sentence about enjoying chess.
这是一场精彩的棋局。
Zhè shì yī chǎng jīngcǎi de qíjú.
This is an exciting game of chess.
Describes an interesting chess match.
他的棋艺很高。
Tā de qíyì hěn gāo.
His chess skills are very high.
Praises someone's chess abilities.
在棋局中运筹帷幄。
Zài qíjú zhōng yùnchóu wéiwò.
Strategizing in the chess game.
A nuanced expression about planning strategy in chess.
Using '下' with games
下 + noun
This pattern is used to indicate playing a game, typically a board game or strategy game.
Use '下' before a game noun to express playing that game.
我们一起下棋。
Wǒmen yīqǐ xià qí.
Let's play chess together.
你会下象棋吗？
Nǐ huì xià xiàngqí ma?
Can you play Xiàngqí?
他喜欢下围棋。
Tā xǐhuān xià wéiqí.
He likes to play Go.
What does 棋 mean?
How is 棋 pronounced?
How do you write "chess" in Chinese?
Listen. What does the sentence mean?
他在公园里下___。(He is playing ___ in the park.)
我喜欢下棋。 — What does this sentence mean?
Which piece in Xiàngqí is similar to the king in Western chess?
Arrange into a correct sentence
Frequently asked questions about the word 棋
Besides chess, 棋 can refer to various strategic board games like Go (围棋) and other chess-like games.
You can use it in phrases like '我喜欢下棋' (I like to play chess) or '他是一个棋迷' (He is a chess enthusiast).
No, 棋 can generally refer to any strategic game, not just chess.
Today's Mandarin word: 棋 (qí) — chess; any strategy game.
Learn it on Mandarin Temple's Dragon Daily 🐉