Published : 18/09/2025
A new trend of "effortless tourism" is catching on in China, which promotes a lazy approach to travel—maximising satisfaction with minimal effort. It is becoming popular particularly among young people.
Some scenic spots in China now start to offer low-effort activities like elevator hikes, slow bungee jumps, and lazy river drifts to appeal to these travellers. How easy can it get? See for yourself!
Effortless hiking: Enjoy Xianju's cloud sea
Located in Taizhou City (台州市) of Zhejiang Province, Shenxianju (神仙居), which means home of the immortals, is famous for its magnificent and perilous volcanic rhyolite landforms and the spectacular sea of clouds, earning it the reputation of a "fairyland on earth. And now, it has also become one of the representative attractions for "effortless climbing".
This "painless" travel experience is made possible by a nearly five-kilometre-long cable car and cliffside escalators. Visitors can take the cable car directly to the mountainside, then effortlessly reach the summit via the built-in escalators—completely avoiding the physical demands of traditional hiking.
At the top, you can not only stroll along the longest cliff walk in Eastern China, overlooking mist-shrouded peaks and unique rock formations, but also cross the thrilling Ruyi Bridge, taking in panoramic views of the landscape. Without any hardship, you can still fully immerse yourself in the wonder and grandeur of nature.
Read more: 4 refreshing summer escapes in China's Mount Huangshan
Slow-descent bungee: Thrill without fear in Anji
Want to experience the thrill of "bungee jumping" but don't dare to take the plunge? The Clouds on the Prairie scenic area in Anji County (安吉縣), Zhejiang Province has launched a "slow-descent bungee jump" specially designed for "effortless tourism".
Standing about 30 metres high, the attraction uses electric descent technology. Instead of a sudden freefall, jumpers are lowered at a steady and gentle pace, creating a feeling of floating in mid-air.
It preserves the visual excitement and sense of elevation of a bungee jump while significantly reducing both psychological fear and physical strain.
Perched over 1,000 metres above sea level, Clouds on the Prairie features expansive alpine meadows and a cool climate. In addition to the slow-descent bungee, visitors can also enjoy low-intensity activities such as cliff walks and gravity carts—making it an ideal destination for young thrill-seekers who prefer mild adventures.
Lying-flat drifting: Guilin's Cat Mountain scenic float
Nestled in Guilin City, the Cat Mountain (貓兒山)—revered as "South China's Highest Peak" and the source of the Li River (灕江) and Zi River (資江)—is often hailed as the "Origin of the Landscapes."
Here, the concept of "Lying-Flat Rafting" is redefining traditional river adventures.
Unlike intense rapids that toss riders through churning waters, Cat Mountain offers a long and gentle drifting route. Visitors recline on specially designed rafts, drifting lazily with the crystal-clear stream—no paddling required—gliding peacefully through emerald valleys and pristine forests.
The shores unfold like a classical painting, accompanied by birdsong and the soft ripple of passing over mild shoals.
The journey is relaxing yet engaging, perfect for "effortless travellers" who seek a serene connection with nature without the usual mess and exertion.
From painless hiking to lying-flat rafting, "effortless tourism" isn't about being incapable—it's a conscious choice by young people to travel more calmly and treat themselves with more kindness.
It's not about conquering nature or pushing limits, but about finding balance between ease and experience. Perhaps within this kind of "laziness" lies a more complete understanding of what makes life beautiful.