**Escaping the Grind: China’s Young Generation Abandons City Life for Rural Retreat**
In a surprising trend, China’s Gen Z and millennials are ditching the fast-paced city life for a slower, more peaceful existence in the countryside. Dubbed “retirees,” these young individuals are documenting their rural adventures on social media, showcasing their daily lives as they take extended career breaks or remain unemployed.
One such “retiree,” 22-year-old Wenzi Dada, made headlines by quitting his manufacturing job and moving to a bamboo shack in Guizhou province. He now spends his days cooking, harvesting vegetables, and maintaining his mountaintop hut, all while sharing his experiences on Douyin, China’s version of TikTok.
Experts attribute this phenomenon to the country’s struggling economy, which has led to a highly competitive job market. With a record 11.8 million college graduates entering the labor market this year, the youth unemployment rate has skyrocketed to 18.8%, the highest since records began.
As a result, many young people are opting out of the city life, where the cost of living is high and job opportunities are scarce. Instead, they’re flocking to provinces like Yunnan, Guizhou, and Sichuan, where the cost of living is significantly lower.
While some critics accuse these “retirees” of being too picky or giving up, they argue that they’re simply redefining what it means to be successful. “This is not called lying down, this is called making preparations for retirement in advance, so that you can enjoy your old age in the future,” Wenzi said in a post.
In response to the trend, some entrepreneurs have started catering to these young “retirees,” opening “youth nursing homes” that offer a peaceful retreat from the stresses of city life. These facilities often exclude guests above 45 years old and provide a space for young people to reflect and reset their lives.
While experts predict that this wave of “retirements” may not last forever, it reflects a growing desire among China’s young generation for a more balanced and fulfilling lifestyle. As one economist noted, “The ultimate goal for those kids is still to go back to the city in the long run,” but for now, rural China is providing a much-needed escape from the pressures of urban life.
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