A janitor reads a pocket book on commonly-used English phrases in Hangzhou's West Lake scenic area. [Photo/hangzhou.com.cn]

Visitors have been surprised to find that staff members of Hangzhou's West Lake scenic area are using their spare time reading a pocket book on commonly-used English phrases and discussing the pronunciation of words, local media outlets reported on May 14.

According to the scenic area's administrators, their staff members are volunteering to learn 100 English phrases that are widely used in tourism services.

The pocket book titled Often Used English in Tourism Services of Hangzhou West Lake and Xixi Wetland Scenic Area was composed in Chinese and English. It includes phrases covering greetings, apologizing, guiding tourists, helping tourists, finding lost items, warning people, and handling emergencies.

The book is titled Often Used English in Tourism Services of Hangzhou West Lake and Xixi Wetland Scenic Area. [Photo/hangzhou.com.cn]

Considering that readers may be busy serving tourists, the book size was minimized so that it can be put in their pockets and be read in their spare time.

With the Asian Games Hangzhou 2022 drawing nearer, English learning activities have been organized across the city as part of efforts to better serve the event.

West Lake attracts a large number of foreign tourists each year due to its renowned natural beauty. Having staff members who can speak fluent English helps improve the experience of tourists, according to officials.