A new wave of young Chinese travelers is reshaping the concept of adventure, seeking out unconventional experiences that go beyond traditional tourism.
Under the starlit sky at the base camp of Mount Qomolangma, also known as Mount Everest, a group of young adventurers gathered to celebrate. This scene, reminiscent of a lively music festival, was actually a part of Zhang Chongling’s experience at the camp, situated at an altitude of 5,200 meters.
The base camp, open from March to October annually, provides a relatively accessible vantage point to witness the grandeur of the world’s highest peak. In October 2023, Zhang and her friends arrived at the camp just before its seasonal closure, traveling up the mountain on an eco-friendly bus. Around 9 p.m., as Zhang rested in her tent, she was drawn outside by the sounds of music and celebration.
Dressed warmly, Zhang ventured out to find a spontaneous gathering of young people in the camp’s square, celebrating under the starry night. Participants waved Chinese national flags and danced to rock music, with some using oxygen tanks to assist with the altitude.
“People there ranged from their teens to their 40s,” Zhang recalled. “Everyone was warm and welcoming, and there was no intrusion into personal lives—you could simply be yourself.”
The base camp’s accommodations were rudimentary, featuring large tents with minimal sound insulation. Following the celebration, Zhang experienced altitude sickness and had to rent a medical oxygen tank. Despite the discomfort, she found solace in the vibrant atmosphere and the breathtaking view of the Milky Way. “I’ll never be younger than I was at that moment,” the 27-year-old reflected.
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