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In recent months, a curious trend known as Chinamaxxing has captured the attention of social media users across the globe, particularly on platforms like TikTok and Instagram. This phenomenon sees individuals—many without Chinese heritage—embracing aspects of Chinese culture, from sipping hot water to donning traditional slippers and celebrating Lunar New Year. While this cultural appropriation may appear light-hearted, it raises significant questions about identity, authenticity, and the commodification of heritage.
Chinamaxxing: A Trend Born from Discontent
Emerging around mid-2025, Chinamaxxing has taken social media by storm, with videos accumulating hundreds of thousands of views. Creators engage in activities commonly associated with Chinese culture, often stating they are entering a “Chinese era” in their lives. London-based fashion entrepreneur Michelle She notes, “People are trying to be more Chinese regardless of what their heritage is.” However, the trend elicits mixed feelings among those of Chinese descent, many of whom describe the experience as unsettling.
Cultural trends, particularly those proliferating online, serve as responses to broader societal shifts. Jamie Cohen, an associate professor of media studies at Queens College, points out that disillusionment with Western ideals and a growing fascination with wellness have contributed to the rise of Chinamaxxing. Yet, he cautions that this trend often reduces a complex culture to mere snippets, lacking depth and nuance.
The Jarring Reality of Cultural Appropriation
Despite the seemingly innocuous nature of Chinamaxxing, it evokes strong reactions among the Chinese diaspora. British author Jenny Lau expressed discomfort at non-Chinese creators dictating how to celebrate Lunar New Year, calling it a direct affront to genuine cultural practices. “It can feel like a challenge to our identity,” she states, highlighting the disconnect that arises when cultural elements are adopted carelessly.
Similar sentiments are echoed by Vanessa Li, a content creator in Sydney, who questions why individuals outside the culture are offering advice on traditions they have likely never experienced. For many within the diaspora, the sudden attention to Chinese culture feels particularly stinging, coming on the heels of increased xenophobia during the COVID-19 pandemic.
A Mixed Bag of Reactions from the Diaspora
As conversations around Chinamaxxing unfold, concerns about cultural appropriation emerge. Sherry Zhu, a prominent figure in the trend, acknowledges the potential for misrepresentation, particularly when traditional practices are distilled into wellness fads. “I don’t want people to forget the benefits that my culture provides,” she asserts, emphasising the importance of recognising the true roots of these cultural elements.
Interestingly, not everyone views the trend negatively. Some see it as a chance to humanise Chinese culture, moving beyond associations with negative stereotypes. “For years, China’s image was tied to ‘spyware or cheap manufactured goods’,” Claire, a content creator from Canada, observes. She goes on to note how Chinamaxxing has shifted the narrative, allowing for a more nuanced representation of Chinese culture.
Generational Perspectives on Cultural Engagement
The reactions to Chinamaxxing reveal generational divides within the diaspora. Younger individuals, particularly Gen Z, tend to approach cultural discussions with more open-mindedness, seeing potential in the trend as a form of cultural engagement rather than appropriation. Cohen notes, “Young people particularly would prefer this over any other type of cultural appropriation or cultural anger.”
Claire highlights a shift in online discourse, noting that conversations surrounding China are less likely to be met with hostility than in the past. “This is one of those rare times where it’s not that they’re laughing at us, but it’s almost like we’re laughing together,” she reflects. The trend has even prompted some individuals to express interest in travelling to China, leading to a belief that a genuine appreciation for the culture may be blossoming.
Why it Matters
Chinamaxxing serves as a complex mirror reflecting society’s evolving relationship with culture and identity. While it offers a glimpse of appreciation for Chinese heritage, it simultaneously raises critical questions about authenticity and respect. As individuals navigate their cultural identities in an increasingly globalised world, the trend underscores the delicate balance between celebration and appropriation. Understanding this dynamic is essential for fostering a respectful dialogue around cultural exchange, ensuring that appreciation does not diminish the rich histories and traditions that define communities.
