An unexpected event captured China’s attention on Friday, when a group of Chinese students embarked on a 50-kilometer nighttime bike ride in search of Kaifeng’s famous dumplings. What began as a hike among friends turned into a demonstration involving about 100,000 people, forcing local authorities to step in to manage the situation.
The ride started from the university campuses of Zhengzhou and headed towards the ancient city of Kaifeng, famous for its guan tang bao. The students, mostly riding public bicycles, animated the route with patriotic slogans and a strong team spirit.
Liu Lulu, a student at Henan University, described the atmosphere: “People were singing and cheering each other on as they climbed the hills. The passion of the young people was evident; it went beyond just riding a bike.” However, the small tourist town was not prepared to accommodate such a massive influx of visitors. Accommodation facilities and restaurants quickly reached their limits, creating significant inconvenience.
With the number of cyclists soaring to 17,000 in the early evening and then doubling the next day, police have had to take drastic measures. Videos on social media show thousands of cyclists stranded on Zhengkai Avenue and major roads in Kaifeng, with police telling them to disperse. To prevent similar situations in the future, authorities have introduced temporary restrictions on roads and bike paths on weekends. Bike-sharing apps have also warned users that they will limit the use of bicycles outside of designated areas.
The event has raised questions about the future of the tourism industry in Kaifeng, which is actively seeking ways to attract visitors. The People’s Daily, the official organ of the Chinese Communist Party, praised the influx of young people as a sign of a “vibrant spirit” and curiosity. The outcome of the nighttime bike ride could have significant implications for how Chinese cities handle similar events in the future. As students seek out new experiences, authorities will need to strike a balance between tourism promotion and public order.
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