Trending Now: China's Social Media Highlights #25August-31August#

Weibo

Middle-Class Families Embrace Tiered Summer Travel China’s summer parent-child travel segment surged to 35% in 2025, a 50% increase from the previous year. From African safaris to local mall strolls, family trips have become a symbol of economic stratification. Read more

Japan’s Accommodation Tax Raises Budget Questions for Travellers 42 Japanese municipalities have implemented or plan to implement a lodging tax. With China now Japan’s largest inbound source, the news is sparking widespread discussion. Read more

Is Travel Becoming Like Pre-Cooked Meals? Weibo users liken modern tourism to pre-packaged meals—predictable, templated, and lacking soul. Has overly optimised travel robbed people of spontaneity and joy? Read more

Chinese Tourists in Egypt Face Unfair Tipping Pressure A viral post from Luxor alleges Chinese tourists are being singled out for forced tipping, prompting heated debate around self-respect, group behaviour, and global perceptions. Read more

Douyin

Qixi Festival Reveals Structural Shift in Gifting & Consumption From last-minute “30-minute delivery” bouquets to dual-person concert packages and affordable luxury alternatives, this Qixi showed a new balance of romance, reason, and real-time retail. Read more

Xiaohongshu

Fit Travellers Don't Skip the Gym Tourists on Xiaohongshu reveal their dedication to health, with “hotel gym” searches up 20% YoY. Health-conscious millennials and Gen Zers are reshaping the meaning of quality travel. Read more

Solo Train from Beijing to Paris: A Dream Route A viral story tracks a Chinese tourist’s journey from Beijing to Paris by train, reflecting renewed interest in slower, experience-rich international travel. Read more

Zhihu

Why Do So Many Chinese Prefer Travelling to Japan? From smooth transit to flawless vending machine experiences, Zhihu users argue Japan offers a higher baseline and upper ceiling for tourism comfort and quality. Read more

What It’s Really Like to Travel in Italy From confusing hotel check-in hours to the high cost of taxis, travellers weigh Italy’s charm against its logistical quirks. Still, tourism is up 5.45% YoY among Chinese visitors. Read more