On October 17, Chinanews reported that an intriguing new trend has emerged in mountain climbing: “Full-support climbing! I’ve got boundless energy to carry you to the top and offer photo services.” This humorous self-promotion has become a familiar pitch for many people. In recent years, during every holiday, the concept of “climbing companions” has gained popularity. As the name suggests, it involves hiring someone to accompany you on a hiking activity.
In today’s world, where consumer experience and happiness are paramount, this new service has swiftly gained traction. The motivations for hiring a climbing companion extend beyond simply reaching the summit. One online user candidly noted, “I want to reach the top, but I also want emotional support!”
During the recent National Day holiday, experiences in this realm were mixed—some reveling in the joy while others faced disappointment.
Many individuals have converted the idea of scenic heights into travel plans; however, exhaustion often takes its toll, making the trek back down challenging. This gap has paved the way for the rise of the climbing companion industry. A quick search for “climbing companions” on social media reveals numerous self-recommendation posts from individuals eager for hire.
Recently, a video of an individual named Shu Kesi hiring two college students to accompany her up Mount Tai went viral. In the over five-minute clip, the energetic climbing companions consistently engaged and motivated Shu Kesi, whether by unveiling banners at the station or even carrying her up the final stretch when she grew fatigued. They adhere to a strict principle: not letting a single word go unheard.
Shu Kesi never anticipated such an uplifting and enjoyable experience. When asked why she opted for a climbing companion, she highlighted the isolation that comes with solo hikes. Furthermore, as someone who typically doesn’t exercise much, she feared her stamina wouldn’t be enough to reach the top without encouragement.
Emotional value is another significant reason many people choose to hire climbing companions. Consumer Yang Qianyu shared that companions who have studied the same scenic area extensively can create tailored itineraries and offer detailed insights, making the climb more engaging. This resonates with many young consumers seeking similar experiences.
As the climbing companion market grows competitive, one companion showcased his proficiency by sharing a portfolio of photos with an artistic touch. “We’ll take photos and videos until you’re satisfied,” he assured.
Currently, the scope of services offered by climbing companions is expanding significantly. Beyond the basics, companions now provide water and meals, carry luggage, drive clients to the site, and even offer stretching and massage services to relieve tension.
Among the climbing companions, college students have become the most sought-after demographic. Interviews with several self-identified student companions revealed a wide coverage across popular scenic spots like Mount Tai, Huangshan in Anhui, Yandang Mountain in Zhejiang, and more. Many are willing to offer services nationwide, with prices typically ranging from 200 to 800 RMB, depending on the group size and specific needs. Most companions are local residents with annual park passes, requiring no extra ticket fees from clients. Prices tend to increase for night climbs.
With the tourism high season underway, booking climbing companions has become essential. “I’m still in school, so I can generally only work on weekends. We confirm itineraries with potential clients a few days in advance,” one companion explained. In fact, reports have emerged of companions fully booked through November.
Besides independent university students, there are also organized groups of companions that dispatch qualified individuals based on customer needs. The clientele largely comprises working women and parents with young children who prefer energetic, physically fit college students. Safety is also a consideration, as one tourist aptly noted, “College students tend to be less jaded, providing an extra sense of security.”
Yang Qianyu initially hesitated to seek a climbing companion but ultimately felt reassured by a student who took the time to explain safety tips and other details without asking for payment upfront, leading to her choice.
After positive experiences, many consumers expressed a preference for student companions in future climbs. Additionally, families often hire companions to assist their young children during hikes due to their limited stamina, with rates adjusting accordingly.
However, this budding industry faces challenges, including instances of fraud. Several travelers shared their disappointing experiences of scams during their first attempts to hire companions over the National Day holiday—one individual lost a deposit after being unable to contact her hired companion upon arrival at the park.
Moreover, some consumers have reported unsatisfactory service attitudes from certain climbing companions, who might rush the pace or belittle clients.
Attorney Rui Huanyue from Shanghai Jiuze Law Firm pointed out that the lack of clear regulations and standards in this emerging service sector has led to inconsistencies. As demand surges, the low barriers to entry might attract unsuitable participants, resulting in varying service quality and an increased risk of fraud, jeopardizing visitor safety and rights.
“Currently, most climbing companions recruit clients through social media and verbal agreements, which creates ambiguity in responsibilities. This lack of clarity can lead to difficulties in resolving disputes if they arise,” Rui emphasized, advising clients to select companions cautiously and prioritize written agreements to safeguard their interests.
In a positive indication of industry growth, the Enshi Tourism Group recently called for volunteers to assist hikers in Enshi Grand Canyon, seeking energetic individuals with good communication skills and photography abilities. Such initiatives, which offer services without additional costs for guests, received positive feedback during the recent National Holiday, highlighting the demand for these volunteer positions.
Rui noted that this kind of official endorsement sets an important precedent, encouraging scenic areas to actively recruit and train qualified climbing companions while implementing evaluation mechanisms to maintain quality.
As the concept of hiring climbing companions continues to gain traction, there’s a growing interest among people to consider this service. If scenic areas expand their offerings, they may significantly enhance visitor experiences. (Some names have been changed at the request of interviewees.)
