[Video] #Chinatravel vlogs: Can foreign vloggers change how the West sees China?
Garnering millions of views on social media, #Chinatravel vlogs by foreign creators are presenting an often positive image of China to the world, to the point where some critics say the depictions are verging on propaganda. ThinkChina’s Yi Jina explores the issue.
Showcasing positive personal encounters and everyday moments in China, #Chinatravel vlogs by foreign travellers are debunking some critical narratives of China commonly seen in Western media. But as with much China-related content, controversy quickly follows. Some critics say that these videos are government-backed propaganda efforts to tell the China story. Conversely, others see these vlogs as authentic reflections of personal experiences, offering a glimpse into a different side of China.
Interest in Chinese culture on social media isn’t new. Chinese vloggers like Li Ziqi and Dianxi Xiaoge were among the first to capture global audiences with their idyllic portrayals of rural life, paving the way for a new generation of creators. The recent lifting of travel restrictions and new visa-free policies have also drawn more foreigners to China, further fuelling the content boom. Some people also believe that making #Chinatravel videos will help them achieve a quick rise to fame.
Whichever the case, the extensive reach of #Chinatravel vlogs is undeniable. Whether driven by genuine curiosity or hidden agendas, the truth likely lies in the middle. Amid competing narratives, can these vlogs change how the world sees China?
