If you are an adventurous type of person, I don't see why you cannot manage. We used google map for navigation. If you cannot speak, use body language, I have seen European went into kitchen to pick what they like to eat. I have seen/met European( some on bike) travel in China on their own. In fact, I have met a few in Yuanyang, some stayed in same guest house that we had. I think that guest house get mentioned in Lonelyplanet or something, is famous among European backpackers.