How Foreigners Discovered China Through Xiaohongshu: The Viral "Say Hi" Trend

The Viral "Say Hi" Story That Started It All

Brett Neumann from Mississippi, USA, posted a photo with his 14-month-old daughter on Xiaohongshu in January 2026. He simply wanted to say hello to Chinese users. Within hours, thousands of Chinese families responded with their own photos—creating one of the most wholesome viral moments the platform had ever seen.

The post was截图 (screenshot) and reached 8 million views on foreign social media, trending at #1. The comments were filled with a phrase that would become symbolic: "This is what the world should look like."

What started as a virtual greeting evolved into something extraordinary. Brett and his family decided to book flights to Shanghai—something neither he nor his wife had ever done before. They wanted to meet the Chinese families who'd brightened their days during those early morning "hi" exchanges.

The Shanghai Meeting: When Online Friends Became Real

On March 22, 2026, Brett's family arrived at Shanghai Pudong International Airport. Their Chinese friends—Rong Rong's family from Shanghai—were waiting at the arrivals hall with custom-made mugs featuring a Mississippi beach theme and a glowing turtle stuffed animal.

"I wake up every day looking forward to this 'century meeting,'" Brett posted on Xiaohongshu before departing.

The two families met at Shanghai Disneyland on March 24, choosing the theme park as their first stop because both families were Disney enthusiasts. Brett said, "What better place to create memories with new friends than Disney?"

Their sweaters were custom-made in both Chinese and English: "Let's be friends!"

More Foreigners Following the Same Path

Brett's family wasn't alone. Many foreigners who'd joined Xiaohongshu in January 2026 began planning their own trips to China:

• "Wolf Uncle" (Jiggly Boy) — A famous basketball fan in China circles, he arrived in Shanghai 5 days before Brett. He was struck by how clean and efficient the city was. "I think this is one of the most beautiful cities in the world," he said.
• Federico from Italy — His mother had visited China 30 years ago. Returning with her in 2026, he was amazed by Shanghai's modernization. He was particularly impressed by the coffee culture and the city's acceptance of international cuisines.
• Professor Alex Timerville from Leeds University — Recommended by his Chinese students, he used Xiaohongshu to plan trips to Beijing and Shanghai.
• Itsjavachip — A famous game streamer known for live-streaming Black Myth: Wukong arrived in Chongqing on March 23.

Why Foreigners Feel Safer in China

In April 2026, foreign vloggers on social media began documenting their experiences of feeling safe in China. This theme of personal safety has become one of the most discussed topics among foreign visitors.

"I just bring my usual solo female travel common sense approach to what I'm doing and never had any issues."

— Female foreign traveler quoted by Global Times

Foreign vloggers consistently mention:

• Walking alone at night without worry
• The presence of public security personnel
• Clean, well-lit streets
• Overall sense of community watchfulness

The "Cat Tax" and "Dog Tax": Understanding Chinese Internet Culture

For foreigners arriving in China through Xiaohongshu connections, one of the most delightful discoveries is Chinese internet humor. Brett learned from his Chinese friends:

• 猫税 (Cat Tax) — When someone shares cute content, others must respond with cat images
• 狗税 (Dog Tax) — Similar concept but with dog images
• Emoji culture — Chinese netizens have a rich, creative emoji system

These small cultural exchanges exemplify why the Xiaohongshu foreign visitor trend is so meaningful—it's not just about tourism, it's about genuine human connection across cultures.

Practical Guide: How to Connect with Chinese People on Xiaohongshu

Getting Started

1. Download the app — Xiaohongshu is available internationally, though content may be limited without a Chinese phone number
2. Create your profile — Use a friendly photo and write a simple introduction in English or with translation
3. Start with "hi" — Post a simple greeting photo and wait for responses
4. Be genuine — Chinese users value authentic, warm interactions

Making Real Connections

• Respond to comments with gratitude and questions
• Share about your own culture and country
• Ask your new friends for travel advice about China
• Be open to meeting in person if you're planning a China trip

2026 China Travel: What's Surprising Foreigners Most

How to Plan Your Own China Trip via Xiaohongshu Connections

Step 1: Start the Conversation

Post a friendly introduction on Xiaohongshu. Share where you're from, what interests you about China, and that you're planning a visit.

Step 2: Build Relationships

Don't rush the process. Respond to comments, ask questions about Chinese culture, and let friendships develop naturally.

Step 3: Ask for Local Recommendations

Once you have friends on the platform, ask for:

• Restaurant recommendations in cities you're visiting
• Hidden gems that aren't in tourist guides
• Tips for navigating local transportation
• Customs and etiquette reminders

Step 4: Meet Up!

If your schedule allows and your new friends are in the same city, consider meeting for a meal or coffee. Many foreigners report these meetings as the highlight of their trip.

Final Thoughts: The World at the Same Table

As one foreign visitor put it: Xiaohongshu feels like "the entire Earth in miniature, bringing different cultures together. Like we're all at the same table where we can become friends with others."

This sentiment captures why the "say hi" trend resonates so deeply. In a world often divided by media narratives and stereotypes, here is a platform where ordinary people—American truck drivers, Shanghai families, Italian food lovers, British professors—find common ground through photos, emojis, and shared curiosity.

The door to authentic Chinese experiences has never been more open. And it started with a simple "hi."