China ‘city work’ new dating trend promotes love on the move as couples earn extra cash
Young people in China view food delivery as a hybrid form of dating, offering light physical activity that can alleviate stress and fatigue
China’s young city dwellers have embraced a quirky new dating trend known as “city work,” where couples enhance their romantic evenings by riding e-bikes and delivering takeaways. This innovative approach allows them to combat burnout while earning a little extra cash.
Departing from the traditional “Beijing drifter” dating style characterised by lavish dinners, couples are now opting for a fun twist: delivering meals together after a long workday.
For many, life has morphed into a monotonous routine, filled with endless commutes and evenings spent mindlessly scrolling through short videos. However, they have discovered that light physical activity can effectively alleviate stress and fatigue.
During these unique dates, one partner typically rides the scooter while the other takes charge of picking up and delivering orders, transforming work into a playful shared experience. Couples find themselves laughing their way through the city, often remarking that this activity has strengthened their bond.
“In the past, they said that travelling together reveals a person’s true character. Now, sharing a takeaway shift serves as the ultimate stress test. A friend once told me, ‘After three blind dates in cafes, I could not get to know anyone. But after one delivery shift, everything became clear,’” shared one individual.