Chinamaxxing: The Viral Trend of Embracing Chinese Culture

Chinamaxxing is a cultural phenomenon that gained traction in mid-2025, characterized by individuals, regardless of their heritage, adopting elements of Chinese culture through social media platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and X. This trend includes practices such as drinking hot water, wearing slippers, using chopsticks, and celebrating traditional holidays. Michelle She, a London-based fashion label owner, notes that many are attempting to connect with their "Chinese roots" in this manner. Jamie Cohen, an associate professor of media studies, suggests that this trend is a response to broader cultural shifts, including disillusionment with Western ideals and a growing interest in wellness.

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The reception of Chinamaxxing among the Chinese diaspora is mixed. Many express discomfort with the trend, describing it as "jarring." Jenny Lau, a British author, highlights the unsettling nature of non-Chinese creators dictating how to celebrate traditional events like Lunar New Year. Content creator Vanessa Li echoes this sentiment, questioning the authenticity of advice from those unfamiliar with the culture. Claire, a Canadian content creator, reflects on the irony of cultural elements that were once sources of shame now being celebrated by outsiders.

The Guardian

Critics within the diaspora raise concerns about cultural appropriation, particularly regarding non-Chinese individuals profiting from aspects of Chinese culture. Sherry Zhu, a prominent figure in the Chinamaxxing trend, emphasizes the importance of recognizing the cultural significance behind these practices. She warns against reducing traditional Chinese medicine to mere wellness fads. Lau argues that Chinamaxxing represents a form of Orientalism, where Western culture commodifies Eastern traditions without understanding their depth.

The Guardian

Despite criticisms, some see Chinamaxxing as a positive development. Tingting Liu, an academic, acknowledges that while the trend may promote superficial understandings of Chinese culture, it also humanizes it, moving away from negative stereotypes. Claire notes that the trend has fostered a sense of shared humor rather than ridicule, marking a shift in online attitudes. Generational differences also play a role; younger individuals, particularly Gen Z, tend to be more open-minded about cultural discussions, viewing Chinamaxxing as preferable to past forms of cultural appropriation.

The Guardian

As of now, many believe Chinamaxxing may be nearing its peak, with Cohen suggesting that its transition to Instagram could signify its decline. However, some, like Zhu and She, remain optimistic about a sustained interest in Chinese culture, noting an increase in requests for cultural experiences, such as trips to China. Li expresses a sense of validation for younger members of the diaspora, stating, "It’s validating to be Chinese."

The Guardian

• “What’s spreading globally is not China in its full complexity, but fragments of everyday life,” — Tingting Liu, Research Fellow

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• “Chinamaxxing is Orientalism by any other name.” — Jenny Lau, Author

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• “I don’t want people to forget … the benefits that my culture is providing. It comes from China … it’s not coming from somewhere else.” — Sherry Zhu, Content Creator

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• “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,” — Claire, Content Creator

The Guardian

• “I’m inclined to believe that when people want to engage with my culture, it’s from a genuine standpoint.” — Claire, Content Creator

The Guardian

Chinamaxxing reflects a complex interplay of cultural appreciation, appropriation, and identity, highlighting the evolving perceptions of Chinese culture in a globalized digital landscape.

The Guardian