Glamping in China has rapidly become the new travel fad among the young Chinese. With travel restrictions confining many to the mainland and Macau, and a keen desire for open spaces and nature, Chinese vacationers have found glamping to be the perfect escape. Here’s why:
- Travel restrictions have increased the appeal of domestic destinations
- Nature and open spaces offer a break from urban life
- Luxury and convenience of glamping align with modern preferences
- Social media platforms like Xiaohongshu highlight glamorous camping styles
Glamping, or “glamorous camping,” offers a blend of luxury and nature. Imagine sitting by a campfire in a designer gown with a matching luxury brand bag, as seen in popular destinations like Hangzhou. Whether it’s family-friendly campsites or fashion-forward getaways, glamping is reshaping how Chinese travelers experience the outdoors.
I am Shawn Shi, an expert in Glamping in China and dedicated to creating opulent, yet environmentally friendly, outdoor living experiences. My work focuses on harmonizing luxury with sustainability, a balance young Chinese glamping enthusiasts highly value.
Similar topics to Glamping in China:
- bespoke modular homes
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The Rise of Glamping in China
When domestic travel resumed in the spring of 2020, Chinese travelers started exploring destinations closer to home due to travel restrictions. This led to a surge in interest in nature-based activities like road trips to the Tibetan plateau and Inner Mongolian grasslands, hiking in scenic areas, and even fly-fishing. But it was glamping that saw the most dramatic rise in popularity.
A New Way to Explore
Glamping combines the thrill of the great outdoors with the comforts of luxury accommodations. Unlike traditional camping, which involves setting up tents and cooking on a campfire, glamping offers amenities like plush bedding, gourmet meals, and even heated tents. This blend of trip and comfort has captivated many young Chinese who are eager to escape the city but not willing to sacrifice convenience.
Social Media Influence
Platforms like Xiaohongshu have played a pivotal role in promoting glamping. During the 2021 Labor Day holiday, searches for “camping” on Xiaohongshu increased by 230% compared to the same period in 2020. Influencers and fashionistas have turned camping sites into photogenic backdrops, showcasing designer clothes and luxury items. This trend has caught the attention of brands like Fendi, which even held a camping-themed promotion at a Shanghai mall.
Family-Friendly Options
Glamping isn’t just for influencers. According to Ctrip, reservations for local area family camping were up by 206% in the first half of 2021 compared to 2019. With snap travel restrictions often shutting down interprovincial travel, suburban campgrounds have become a popular choice for families looking for a quick and convenient getaway.
Investment Opportunities
The glamping boom has also attracted investors. Of the approximately 26,000 camping-related companies in China, 60% were founded in 2020 or later. Lifestyle brand Dare Glamping, established in October 2020, has quickly expanded to 20 campsites and secured close to RMB10 million (US$1.6 million) in angel financing. Dare Glamping offers a “tent setting-up experience” where staff handle the setup while guests watch and film, making it an Instagram-worthy event.
Future Prospects
The trend shows no signs of slowing down. Tourism boards and travel brands from South Australia to Dubai are promoting their own glamping destinations to attract Chinese tourists. The question remains whether these international spots can meet the high standards set by the glamping experiences in China.
Conclusion
As the glamping trend continues to grow, it offers a unique blend of trip and luxury that appeals to a wide range of travelers. From fashion-forward young adults to families seeking a break from city life, glamping has something for everyone.
Let’s now dig into some of the most popular glamping destinations in China.
Popular Glamping Destinations in China
Zhangjiajie
Zhangjiajie is a top destination for glamping enthusiasts. Known for its stunning sandstone pillars and lush forests, this area offers a magical backdrop for a luxurious outdoor experience. Glamping sites here often feature amenities like air conditioning, private bathrooms, and garden views, ensuring comfort while you enjoy the natural beauty.
Foshan
In Foshan, glamping sites like the Cuba Youth Hostel offer a unique mix of urban and natural experiences. These sites come equipped with modern conveniences like washing machines and soundproof walls, along with breathtaking city views. It’s a perfect blend for those who want to stay close to urban amenities while enjoying the outdoors.
Zhangye
Zhangye is famous for its colorful Danxia landforms. Glamping here means waking up to some of the most spectacular landscapes in China. The sites often include cozy tents with panoramic views, making it a photographer’s dream.
Huangshan City
Huangshan City, home to the iconic Yellow Mountains, is another popular glamping destination. The glamping sites here offer luxurious amenities such as spacious tents, gourmet meals, and guided hikes. It’s perfect for those who want to explore the mountains without sacrificing comfort.
Sanya
For a beachside glamping experience, Sanya is unbeatable. Located on Hainan Island, this area offers glamping sites with direct beach access, outdoor swimming pools, and various dining options. It’s ideal for those who want to combine the luxury of a resort with the trip of camping.
Hangzhou
Hangzhou is known for its beautiful West Lake and tea plantations. Glamping sites in this area, like the Sheraton Grand Hangzhou Wetland Park Resort, offer spacious balconies, modern furnishings, and panoramic views. It’s a serene escape with all the comforts of a high-end hotel.
Zhuhai
Zhuhai is a coastal city with a laid-back vibe. Glamping sites here often feature waterfront views and easy access to both beaches and parks. It’s a great choice for those looking to unwind by the sea.
Dunhuang
Dunhuang, located near the Gobi Desert, offers a unique glamping experience. Imagine sleeping under the stars in a luxurious tent surrounded by sand dunes. These sites often include traditional Chinese furnishings and guided camel rides, making it a truly memorable trip.
These destinations showcase the diversity and luxury that glamping in China has to offer. Whether you’re looking for mountain views, beachside relaxation, or desert trips, there’s a perfect glamping site waiting for you.
Luxurious Glamping Experiences
Glamping in China isn’t just about camping in style; it’s a whole new way to experience the outdoors, blending luxury with nature. One of the key elements driving this trend is the influence of fashion and social media.
Designer Clothes and Xiaohongshu
Xiaohongshu, a popular Chinese social media platform, has turned glamping into a fashion statement. Searches for “camping” on Xiaohongshu skyrocketed by 230% during the 2021 Labor Day holiday compared to the previous year.
Fashion influencers and young women often post photos of themselves glamping in designer clothes. For instance, you’ll find images of campers in Fendi slippers and Hermes blankets, turning campgrounds into stylish photo shoots. This trend has even attracted luxury brands like Fendi, which held a camping-themed promotion in Shanghai.
Family Camping and Ctrip
It’s not just influencers who are catching on to the glamping trend. Families are also embracing it. According to Ctrip, China’s largest travel booking platform, reservations for local family camping were up by 206% in the first half of 2021 compared to the same period in 2019.
With travel restrictions limiting interprovincial travel, many families are opting for suburban campgrounds. These sites offer a convenient escape from city life without the hassle of long-distance travel.
Local Area and Suburban Campgrounds
Suburban campgrounds provide a perfect blend of nature and convenience. For example, Dare Glamping, a lifestyle brand founded in 2020, has expanded rapidly due to its unique offerings. They provide a “tent setting-up experience” where staff set up luxurious tents while guests watch and film. Their all-inclusive packages rival luxury hotels and include catering, furniture, and even showers.
These campgrounds are also designed to be Instagram-worthy, aligning with the Xiaohongshu aesthetic. This makes them particularly appealing to young Chinese who want to enjoy nature while still experiencing luxury.
This luxurious twist on camping is making glamping in China a must-try experience for both fashionistas and families alike. Next, we’ll explore why young Chinese are especially drawn to this new travel fad.
Why Young Chinese are Drawn to Glamping
Work-Life Balance
Glamping offers a perfect escape for young Chinese looking to balance work and life. With the nature of city living, many seek quick getaways to decompress and recharge.
Open Spaces and Avoiding Crowds
The allure of open spaces is a significant factor. After the pandemic, the desire to avoid crowded places has grown. Glamping provides a safe way to enjoy the great outdoors without the hustle and bustle of traditional tourist spots.
Personalized Demand
Young Chinese travelers want personalized experiences. Glamping sites often offer custom packages that cater to specific needs, whether it’s a romantic getaway or a family outing. This customization makes glamping an attractive option.
Social Media and Photo Opportunities
Social media plays a huge role in the popularity of glamping. Platforms like Xiaohongshu are filled with glamorous camping photos that look straight out of a fashion magazine.
For instance, a young woman might post a picture of herself in a designer gown beside a luxurious tent. These photo opportunities drive more young people to try glamping, just to share their own perfect shots.
This blend of work-life balance, open spaces, and social media appeal makes glamping a hit among young Chinese. Next, let’s look at some of the top glamping sites in China.
Top Glamping Sites in China
Zhangjiajie YOLO Resort
Nestled within the stunning Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, Zhangjiajie YOLO Resort offers a luxurious glamping experience. Each tent comes with air conditioning, a private bathroom, and amenities like a hairdryer and slippers. Guests can enjoy serene garden views from their tent, making it a perfect retreat for nature lovers.
Foshan Cuba Youth Hostel
Located in Foshan, Foshan Cuba Youth Hostel combines city life with glamping. The tents are equipped with a washing machine and soundproof walls to ensure a peaceful stay. Guests can relax on the terrace with city views and enjoy the shared facilities like a lounge, kitchen, and free WiFi.
Shangri-La Sanya
For a beachside glamping experience, Shangri-La Sanya in Haitang Bay is the place to be. This resort provides direct beach access and boasts three outdoor swimming pools, including two heated ones. With six on-site dining options, guests can indulge in a variety of cuisines while enjoying the beautiful surroundings.
Sheraton Grand Hangzhou Wetland Park Resort
The Sheraton Grand Hangzhou Wetland Park Resort offers a blend of luxury and nature. Each room features a spacious balcony with panoramic views of the Xixi Wetland. The air-conditioned rooms are furnished with modern amenities, including an iPod dock, personal safe, and flat-screen TV, ensuring a comfortable and stylish stay.
The Hidden Valley Resort in Shangri-La
Located in the mystical Shangri-La, The Hidden Valley Resort is the first glamping boutique resort in the area. The resort features Tibetan-inspired tented villas and authentic Tibetan residences. Guests can enjoy farm-to-table dining with organic produce from the resort’s garden and participate in guided activities designed by the Trip Concierge team. This resort offers a unique cultural experience at 3,160 meters above sea level, surrounded by majestic mountains.
These top glamping sites in China offer a mix of luxury, comfort, and unique experiences, making them perfect for young Chinese travelers seeking an escape from city life.
Frequently Asked Questions about Glamping in China
What is the glamping trend in China?
Glamping in China has become a major travel fad, especially among young Chinese. With travel restrictions to the mainland and Macau, and a desire for open spaces without the crowds, domestic travel has surged since 2020. This new trend includes road trips to the Tibetan plateau, Inner Mongolian grasslands, and scenic hikes. But glamping—a mix of glamour and camping—has seen the most dramatic rise.
Searches for “camping” on Xiaohongshu, a popular social media platform, were up by 230% during the 2021 Labor Day holiday compared to the previous year. This shows how glamping has captivated the imagination of many young Chinese, combining nature with luxury.
Is it legal to wild camp in China?
Wild camping in China is a bit of a grey area. While there are no strict laws against it, it’s generally safer and more accepted to camp in designated areas. Many scenic spots, national parks, and countryside locations have specific areas set aside for camping. For example, Jiuzhai Valley and Emeishan National Park are popular destinations where camping is allowed in certain zones.
However, wild camping on beaches or in remote countryside areas can sometimes be tolerated, but it’s always best to check local regulations and seek permission where necessary. Always prioritize safety and environmental responsibility when choosing your camping spot.
Does China have campgrounds?
Yes, China has many campgrounds, especially in national parks and other natural attractions. These campgrounds offer a range of amenities from basic facilities to luxurious setups. For instance, Jiuzhai Valley and Emeishan National Park are well-known for their camping areas, providing a fantastic backdrop of natural beauty.
In addition to national parks, there are many private glamping sites that offer more luxurious experiences. These sites often include amenities like air conditioning, private bathrooms, and even catering services, ensuring a comfortable stay while being close to nature.
Conclusion
Glamping has emerged as the new travel fad among young Chinese, blending the allure of nature with the comforts of luxury. This trend has been fueled by a desire to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and accept the tranquility of the outdoors without sacrificing modern comforts.
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