First Deaf-Owned Café Opens in Wuhan with Sign Language Service

In a bustling district of Wuhan, a small two-story café opened its doors yesterday morning—not just serving coffee, but also opening a door to a community often overlooked. For the hearing-impaired, ordering a simple cup of coffee can be a daily hurdle. But at Deaf House Cafe, communication flows through expressive hands, not spoken words.

Yes, Wuhan now has China’s first deaf-themed café. Opened on October 10th at 10 a.m. on Jiqing Street, it’s staffed and run by deaf and hard-of-hearing partners, offering full sign language interaction and a space dedicated to deaf culture.

Three Founders, One Shared Vision

The café was founded by three partners: Cui Jing, a 24-year-old hearing-impaired woman who uses hearing aids; Wen Feng, a 23-year-old non-verbal barista born deaf; and Chen Wanzhen, a 27-year-old Taiwanese researcher of sign language. Despite their different backgrounds, they bonded over a shared dream—to create a space where deaf people could work, connect, and be understood without barriers.

Cui Jing, who lost her hearing suddenly at age three, learned to communicate through lip-reading and hearing aids, eventually earning a degree in special education. Wen Feng, who lost his hearing in infancy due to a medical accident, communicates solely through sign language and writing. Chen Wanzhen, a graduate student in anthropology, joined after meeting Cui Jing during research in Chongqing and was moved by their determination.

A Grand Opening Filled with Laughter and Connection

On opening day, the 70-square-meter, two-floor space quickly filled with deaf customers who had traveled from across the city, many finding out about the café online. Inside, hand gestures replaced spoken words, and smiles lit up the room. Wen Feng expertly prepared coffee—pulling shots, steaming milk, and pouring chocolate syrup—while Cui Jing served customers and took orders using sign language. Chen Wanzhen acted as both interpreter and cultural guide, sharing insights about deaf life.

The atmosphere was joyful. Even Wen Feng’s mother, initially opposed to his venture, was moved to tears as her son thanked her in sign language. The café also welcomed hearing-impaired friends like Peng Qing, a dancer who now helps as a waiter, inspired by the founders’ perseverance.

More Than Coffee: A Hub for Deaf Culture

Deaf House Cafe isn’t just about beverages—it’s a cultural space. Chen Wanzhen brought books on deaf culture for customers to browse, and information about sign language and deaf life is displayed throughout the café. The founders emphasize that while they serve great coffee, their primary mission is raising awareness and celebrating deaf identity.

“We want people to know that we communicate visually, and sign language is our direct and efficient way to connect,” Chen wrote on the café’s blog. The space also offers free sign language lessons for anyone interested in learning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Deaf House Cafe located?

Deaf House Cafe is located on Jiqing Street in Wuhan, China. It opened on October 10th on the ground floor of a two-story building covering approximately 70 square meters.

Who are the founders of the café?

The café is co-founded by three partners: Cui Jing, a 24-year-old hearing-impaired woman using hearing aids; Wen Feng, a 23-year-old deaf barista; and Chen Wanzhen, a 27-year-old Taiwanese sign language researcher. All three are connected through their connection to deaf culture.

Does the café offer sign language services?

Yes, Deaf House Cafe is staffed entirely by deaf or hard-of-hearing individuals, and all communication with customers is done via sign language. Chen Wanzhen also serves as a sign language interpreter and cultural guide.

What is the main mission of the café?

While serving coffee, the café’s primary mission is to promote deaf culture, raise awareness about the deaf community, and provide a space where deaf individuals can work and socialize without communication barriers.

Can hearing people learn sign language at the café?

Yes, the café offers free sign language lessons to customers who are interested in learning to communicate with the deaf community.

Is this the first deaf-owned café in China?

Yes, Deaf House Cafe is reported to be the first deaf-themed café in China, focusing on both coffee service and deaf cultural exchange.

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