‘Run Philosophy’ is fast becoming a subculture trend amongst China’s Gen Z. It’s 2023 and China has officially joined the rest of the world in the post-epidemic era. This could be a perfect time to discuss where, why and how young Chinese people seem to be running.

Initially, the focus was on permanent or long-term emigration to countries such as the US, Canada and Australia, as well as other European and East Asian destinations. However, with the reopening of borders in January, young Chinese netizens are exploring more light-hearted approaches to ‘running’. This includes long-term vacations, remote working, multi-city itineraries, and visa-free destinations.

With origins in the disconnect felt by many young people during China’s zero-Covid restrictions, during which Baidu searches for ‘immigration’ spiked by 2000%, China’s “Run” philosophy has led to the creation of a digital subculture. From Chinese passport holders sharing information and experiences about how to leave the country to travel logs, tips, photos, and other content documenting the ‘smoothest’ ways to orchestrate an immediate getaway overseas, TONG interviewed China’s Gen Z travellers to learn more about this emerging trend.

Being the first to ‘run’ is seen as a sign of social status, led by young travellers who defied skyrocketing prices and limited availability to be on the first outbound flights as borders opened up in early 2023. With many seeking an escape from the uncertainty over future lockdowns and the high pressure of urban 996 culture, China’s Gen Z are using travel as a way to explore the world in search of a better quality of life, with some even using open-ended travel as a stepping stone to exploring more permanent or long-term relocation.

As China emerges from the pandemic, this trend is likely to continue to evolve.