Hanzi Guide

Learn to write Hanzi with proper stroke order


Watch how to write each character stroke by stroke





Practice PDF

Create printable PDF practice sheets with stroke order and tracing boxes.


9000+ characters

Access over 9000 of the most common simplified and traditional Hanzi characters.

Proper stroke order

Learn the correct way to write each character with accurate stroke-by-stroke animations. Essential for readable handwriting and character recognition.

Free & accessible

No sign-up required. Works on any device with a web browser. Practice anywhere, anytime on desktop, tablet, or phone.


About Hanzi Guide

Hanzi Guide is a free educational tool built on the Hanzi Writer library by chanind. This interactive application helps learners master Chinese character writing through animated stroke order demonstrations for both simplified and traditional Chinese characters.

Character stroke data comes from the Make Me a Hanzi project.

Why Learn Hanzi Stroke Order?

Learning proper stroke order is essential for writing Hanzi correctly. Following the correct stroke sequence helps with character recognition, improves handwriting legibility, and makes it easier to remember complex characters. Whether you're learning Mandarin or Cantonese, understanding stroke order is fundamental to mastering Hanzi writing. Our tool provides step-by-step guidance for each character, showing you the correct way to write.

How to Use Hanzi Guide

Simply enter any Hanzi in the input field above, and watch the animated stroke-by-stroke demonstration. You can switch between simplified Chinese (简体字) and traditional Chinese (繁體字) using the toggle buttons. Use the playback controls to pause, rewind, or step through each stroke at your own pace. For interactive practice, enable the "I want to write!" mode to practice writing Hanzi yourself with real-time feedback. Perfect for students, teachers, and anyone learning to read and write Hanzi.

Perfect Companion for Language Learning Apps

Learning Chinese with Duolingo, Memrise, or other language learning apps? Hanzi Guide is the perfect complementary tool to help you master Hanzi writing. While language learning apps teach you vocabulary and grammar, Hanzi Guide focuses specifically on proper stroke order and handwriting technique. Use it alongside your favorite language learning app to develop well-rounded Chinese language skills. Not affiliated with or endorsed by Duolingo or any other language learning platform.