A New Phenomenon in China: The Rise of “Climbing Buddies”
In China, a unique phenomenon has emerged, where young men, often university students or veterans, offer their services as “climbing buddies” to strangers looking to ascend popular mountains. These individuals, known as “pei pa” in Chinese, provide companionship, support, and guidance to climbers, and can charge anywhere from 200 to 600 yuan (around $30 to $85) per trip.
The trend has gained significant popularity on Chinese social media, with over 100 million views on hashtags related to “climbing buddy.” Young, athletic individuals often advertise their services on platforms like Xiaohongshu and Douyin, showcasing their height, fitness level, and hiking experience.
The services offered by these “buddies” include distracting clients from exhaustion, providing verbal encouragement, carrying their bags, holding their hands, and even pulling them up the mountain. The goal is to make the climb more enjoyable and ensure the client’s safety.
One example of a “climbing buddy” is 20-year-old Chris Zhang, a university student who has earned over 20,000 yuan ($2,800) in the past three months by advertising his services online. Others, like 27-year-old Chen Wudi, have taken it as a full-time job, taking nearly 40 bookings and earning around 20,000 yuan ($2,800) per month.
While the popularity of paid climbing buddies has brought concerns about safety and potential scams, it has also provided an opportunity for young people to make a living while pursuing their passion for outdoor activities. As the market remains unregulated, concerns about unverified guides leading amateur climbers into dangerous situations and the potential for scams remain. Nonetheless, for those who have found success in this industry, it offers a sense of freedom and financial security.
