In recent years, the digital nomad lifestyle has become popular among young people in China.
“It's been 4 months since I started living as a digital nomad,” wrote Xiaohongshu user @Huahuade Xiaoxiaoyin (图形的小小银).
“I'm not thinking about going back to normal life yet…I have no regrets. It's all just part of the life experience.”
As we have reported, some young Chinese people are using the digital nomad lifestyle as part of society's intense “996” (9 a.m. to 9 p.m.) that defines the lives of many white-collar office workers in the country. 9am, 6 days a week) as an alternative lifestyle. In Xiao Hongshu, the hashtag “I quit'' (#Ga离职了) has been viewed 367 million times, and the hashtag “naked resignation'' (#Naked Ji), which refers to quitting before finding another job, has been viewed 367 million times. The number of times has exceeded 1.7 billion.
In contrast to “curling inward,” “laying down,” or quietly quitting, some young Chinese are choosing digital nomadism as a proactive solution to resignation.
“Digital nomads are basically just traveling and making money on the side,” user @yizhizai walk de E shu (一direct的walk的E Uncle) wrote on Xiaohongshu. “No one thinks this is going to last long, so why should we take it seriously?”
In fact, from bustling city centers to serene coastal towns, remote working is now an option for young Chinese looking for flexibility, adventure and new experiences, with digital nomad facilities and co-working spaces increasingly emerging. It has become one.
Here are the top places in China that Chinese digital nomads will choose to live and work in 2024.
Known as the “Bamboo Village” in China's Zhejiang province, Anji appeals to digital nomads seeking a peaceful getaway from city life. Surrounded by lush bamboo forests and beautiful scenery, Yasuji provides a tranquil environment perfect for remote work.
Founded in 2021, Digital Nomad Anji (also known as DNA) has become a popular hybrid working and living space for digital nomads in the country. The community prides itself on an open and creative environment where members can share resources and start planning together.
Located in Yunnan province, Dali's cultural history, breathtaking scenery, and relaxed atmosphere appeal to people working in remote parts of China.
Chinese digital nomads cite the affordable cost of living, burgeoning art scene, and outdoor lifestyle options as key reasons for their stay.
Surrounded by snow-capped mountains and tranquil lakes, the city's Old Town is a tranquil setting perfect for remote work. With more than 10 coworking spaces for digital nomads, including Snowy House, the area has become a popular hub for remote professionals.
Chengdu is well known for its cuisine, making the region a surprisingly popular choice for digital nomads in China.
The city's teahouses, panda sanctuary, and lively night market add to its charm. Chengdu provides a supportive environment for remote professionals with coworking and coliving spaces like Star Village, which opened in 2022.
Quanzhou has become another popular destination for Chinese digital nomads seeking a blend of modern and traditional life. The region has a lot to offer, including temples and mountains, as well as a burgeoning startup scene and abundant ocean views.
Coworking spaces like Oneplace We foster a community environment among nomads through group dinners, talent nights, and a variety of other events.
Tropical Wenchang attracts China's digital nomads with its warm climate, clean beaches, and laid-back atmosphere. Young Chinese people seeking a coastal lifestyle are drawn to the region for its surfing and seafood cuisine.
Co-living spaces like Serendipity, which offers yoga, dancing and treehouses surrounded by seaside coconut trees, are a hot spot for traveling nomads in the country.