Graded passages · pinyin · questions · free

Free HSK reading practice for Levels 1–6

Read graded Chinese stories with optional pinyin, English translations and comprehension questions. Choose your level and start immediately — no sign-up required.

Beginner

HSK 1

3 passages · 30–50 characters each · Pinyin and English available · 15 questions

Start HSK 1 reading →
Beginner

HSK 2

3 passages · 60–90 characters each · Pinyin and English available · 15 questions

Start HSK 2 reading →
Elementary

HSK 3

3 passages · 120–180 characters each · Pinyin and English available · 15 questions

Start HSK 3 reading →
Intermediate

HSK 4

3 passages · 200–280 characters each · Pinyin and English available · 15 questions

Start HSK 4 reading →
Upper intermediate

HSK 5

3 passages · 280–350 characters each · Pinyin and English available · 15 questions

Start HSK 5 reading →
Advanced

HSK 6

3 passages · 350–420 characters each · Pinyin and English available · 15 questions

Start HSK 6 reading →

Explore more: Vocabulary lists, Quizzes, Reading practice, Mock tests.

Try a quick HSK 1 reading

今天星期六。我和朋友去公园。天气很好,我们在公园喝茶、说话。

jīntiān xīngqīliù. wǒ hé péngyou qù gōngyuán. tiānqì hěn hǎo, wǒmen zài gōngyuán hē chá, shuōhuà.

Show English translation

Today is Saturday. My friend and I go to the park. The weather is nice, and we drink tea and talk in the park.

Question: 他们去哪儿?

学校 · 公园 · 商店 · 医院

Start the full HSK 1 reading practice →

What each HSK reading passage includes

Every passage on HSK Atlas is original content written at a specific HSK level. Each one includes:

  • Graded Chinese text — vocabulary and grammar matched to the target HSK level.
  • Pinyin toggle — reveal tone-marked pinyin for the full passage when you need support.
  • English translation — collapsible translation so you can check understanding without spoiling the reading.
  • 5 comprehension questions — multiple-choice questions with explained answers after each passage.
  • Instant scoring — check your answers and see your score immediately.

How difficulty is graded

HSK 1 passages use 30–50 characters with basic sentence patterns and the most common 150 words. Each level increases passage length, vocabulary range, grammar complexity and information density:

  • HSK 1–2: Short daily-life texts, simple questions about who, what, where and when.
  • HSK 3–4: Longer narratives and opinions, questions about cause, sequence and inference.
  • HSK 5–6: Extended arguments and analysis, questions about attitude, structure and implied meaning.

Reading practice vs mock test

Reading practice is for daily comprehension study at your level. The HSK mock test follows the full exam structure with timed listening, reading and writing sections. Use reading practice to build vocabulary recognition and comprehension speed, then take the mock test when you want realistic exam rehearsal.

Combine reading with vocabulary lists and quizzes for a complete study cycle.

Frequently asked questions

Is HSK reading practice free?

Yes. All graded reading passages, pinyin support, English translations and comprehension questions are free. No account or sign-up is required.

How many passages are at each level?

Each HSK level currently has 3 original passages with 5 comprehension questions each (15 questions per level). Passages increase in length and complexity from HSK 1 (about 30 characters) to HSK 6 (over 350 characters).

Can I see pinyin and English translations?

Yes. Every passage has a pinyin toggle button and a collapsible English translation. Use them only when you need support — try reading the Chinese text first for the best practice effect.

What is the difference between reading practice and the mock test?

Reading practice focuses on comprehension of graded passages at your level. The mock test follows the full HSK exam structure with timed listening, reading and writing sections. Use reading practice for daily study and the mock test for exam rehearsal.