In China, individuals are employing 'ascendancy companions' at substantial costs. The more aesthetically appealing they are, the greater the compensation.
In China, individuals are employing 'ascendancy companions' at substantial costs. The more aesthetically appealing they are, the greater the compensation.
She was facing an issue: she couldn't find a companion for the long, five-hour hike.
Instead of shelving her plans, the 25-year-old opted to employ a "mountain buddy," a skilled climber, to join and assist her up to the 5,000-foot summit.
In Chinese, these individuals are nicknamed "pei pa" (meaning "accompany to climb"), who join unknown hikers on popular trails for a cost. This trend has been growing this year, with notable mentions on Chinese social media, boasting over 100 million views for related hashtags.
Youthful, athletic individuals, such as university students or even former military personnel, share their details on social media platforms like Xiaohongshu and Douyin, complete with height, fitness level, and hiking experience. Their fees range from 200 to 600 yuan ($30 to $85) per trip.
During the climb, these "buddies" employ various techniques to keep their clients motivated and energized, be it through singing, telling jokes, playing music, or encouraging words. They even go the extra mile, carrying bags and holding hands to aid their clients.
A day in the mountains
Chen's mountaineering journey began at 8:00 pm to reach the summit in time for sunrise. Her "buddy" evaluated her fitness level and carried her backpack throughout the hike.
When faced with harsh winds at the summit, her "buddy" rented a thick coat for her and guided her to a sheltered area. As the sun rose, her "buddy" was prepared with the national flag and props, making sure Chen could capture a memorable photograph. Though she felt his photography skills could use improvement, she rated her "buddy" as satisfactory, costing her 350 yuan ($49).
Though Chen paid the standard fee for a "buddy," she acknowledged that more attractive individuals could demand higher rates.
"Beauty is another strength they have," she says.
Typical customers of "buddies" are single young women, but that's starting to change.
This summer, a video of a strong male university student effortlessly carrying a three-year-old up a steep mountain, with the toddler's mother trailing behind, went viral.
A viable income source in a tough job market
Chris Zhang, a 20-year-old university student, saw this as an opportunity over the summer. While some of his classmates opted for traditional internships, Zhang offered his services as a "buddy" online, pocketing over 20,000 yuan ($2,800) in the past three months. His fellow classmates earned no more than 2,000 yuan ($280) on a monthly salary from a customer service internship during the same period.
Zhang believes being a "buddy" offers not just better pay but also more freedom to be outdoors instead of being cooped up inside all day.
Others, like Chen Wudi, have taken on the role full-time.
After quitting a stressful sales job in April, the 27-year-old devoted himself to hiking and became a professional "buddy." Currently, Chen is taking close to 40 bookings per month, earning around 20,000 yuan ($2,800). That's more than double the average monthly income in China, according to recent data. His business is thriving, with him moving to Tai'an City, nearest to Mount Tai.
"Basically, I climb mountains all day, sometimes twice or even thrice," says Chen.
Popular "buddies" like him receive requests for climbing tours across the country and will climb any mountain if the client covers transportation costs.
Although the pay is alluring, Chen acknowledges the job's physical toll.
"My knees hurt badly, so I might only be able to keep this up for a few months or half a year."
An unregulated industry
The surge in paid "buddies" has raised some concerns about safety and potential scams. With the industry unregulated, critics worry about the risks, particularly for young women and children. Some fear untrained guides will lead novice climbers into perilous situations, while the trend may also open the door for criminal activities.
Unverified guides could potentially endanger inexperienced climbers on the mountain. Meanwhile, a few reports of scams have surfaced amid the growing popularity.
Despite the risks, the booming job market for "buddies" appeals to thousands of young individuals who are trying to make ends meet during a challenging job market.
Chen Wudi acknowledges that the job might only be a temporary solution.
"I like hiking and visiting different places. It pays well enough to support my daily life."
In light of her love for hiking and the lack of a suitable companion, Chen considered hiring a "pei pa" for her upcoming trip.
Posting her requirements on social media platforms, Chen was able to find and hire a skilled hiker, who not only assisted her during the climb but also helped her capture a memorable sunrise photograph at the summit.