German students riding a hundred days to survey Chinese dream

A German student who graduated from Zhejiang University spent nearly 100 days riding a bicycle some 5,800 kilometers to document Chinese people's "Chinese dream," reports thepaper.cn.

German student Jorg, who graduated from Zhenjiang University, spent nearly 100 days riding 5,800 kilometers to learn about Chinese people's "Chinese dream." [Photo: Jorg's Wechat account]

The 28-year-old, identified only as Jorg, majored in Chinese Studies. He began his tour in May 2016 from China's northernmost city Mohe in the northeastern province of Heilongjiang. From there, he travelled throughout various cities, historic sites and small towns in 12 provinces and municipalities.

He says his main goal was to ask average people and farmers he met on the road about their "Chinese dreams" for his graduation thesis for his Masters degree.

The concept of the "Chinese dream" was put forward in 2013 by Chinese President Xi Jinping, with a goal of building a moderately prosperous society and realizing national rejuvenation. "I was curious about the 'Chinese dream' of ordinary people from different classes and different ages," said Jorg.

German student Jorg, who graduated from Zhenjiang University, spent nearly 100 days riding 5,800 kilometers to learn about Chinese people's "Chinese dream." [Photo: Jorg's Wechat account]

Through the 100 days of travelling throughout China, Jorg says his research has found that the middle-aged and seniors in China care more about social stability and fairness rather than economic benefits. He says younger people seem to be more interested in education opportunities and their personal future.

Jorg studied Chinese culture, politics, economics and history in Zhejiang University from 2015 to 2017.