Across China, you’ll find plenty of intriguing attractions that stand out as “unusual,” but these three massive sculptures are truly a standout. They represent three distinct figures, each crafted with such detail that they appear to be an integral part of the building’s architecture.
The statues are positioned along the side of the building, creating a visual reminiscent of some quirky roadside attractions in the U.S. What makes these sculptures particularly captivating are their elaborate outfits and the symbolic items they hold. While the significance of each item may be rooted in cultural meaning, the exact symbolism remains a bit of a mystery, adding an intriguing layer to this unique display.
Pet Styling Trend in China: Transforming Dogs into Different Animals
In recent years, a unique pet styling trend has emerged in China, where dog owners are giving their pets makeovers to resemble other animals. In one photo, a woman has styled her dog to look like a mini tiger, while nearby smaller dogs sport the look of miniature pandas.
For the dogs, it’s just another day at the groomer, enjoying some pampering, seemingly unfazed by their new identities. Though this trend may be fun to watch, it might be hard to imagine doing the same with our own pets—turning them into, say, a cat or a tiger. We’re not sure our furry friends would forgive us for such an extreme transformation!
Unmovable Spirit: A Home That Stands Alone
In China, rapid development often leads to unexpected and sometimes quirky outcomes. One striking example is this lone house, standing defiantly in the middle of a busy road. The story goes that a developer bought the surrounding land and offered the homeowner compensation, hoping they would move. However, the owner declined and chose to stay put, resulting in the road being built around the property.
We can only imagine the challenges the construction team faced, but it’s clear this homeowner was not willing to budge. Their determination turned this house into a symbol of resistance, creating a sight that’s not only unusual but also a bit inspiring. It’s a reminder that some things just can’t be bought.
Staying Covered at the Beach: A Cultural Approach to Sun Protection
In China, beauty ideals often lean toward fairer complexions, in contrast to the Western appreciation for tanned skin. This explains why some beachgoers in the photo are seen wearing masks and covering up under the sun. Their goal? To shield their skin and maintain a lighter tone. Beyond aesthetics, this approach likely helps reduce skin cancer risks by minimizing sun exposure.
While it might seem unusual to forgo sunscreen in favor of full coverage, their protective gear effectively prevents tanning. It’s an interesting cultural approach to beach attire, showcasing how different societies prioritize skin health and beauty.
A Tea Lover’s Starbucks: Welcome to Teabucks
When traveling abroad, you’ll often encounter familiar brands with a local twist, and China has its own take with “Teabucks.” Similar to Starbucks in the U.S., this tea-focused café specializes in a wide variety of tea blends rather than coffee. Given the deep cultural significance and popularity of tea in China, this concept makes perfect sense.
We appreciate the idea of a shop devoted exclusively to tea, offering a range of flavors for enthusiasts. However, the name “Teabucks” doesn’t quite have the same ring as Starbucks, though the concept is equally inviting for tea lovers.
Human Pandas: Caring for Cubs in Disguise
In China, giant pandas hold a special place, yet they were once endangered due to habitat loss. Thanks to dedicated conservation efforts, their numbers are now gradually increasing. To support panda cubs without making them too comfortable around humans, scientists wear panda costumes when interacting with them. These suits help maintain a natural distance, essential for the cubs’ eventual reintroduction into the wild.
Adding to the disguise, scientists even apply a special panda scent to blend in more convincingly. This careful approach appears effective, as panda populations have been making a steady comeback, showing that thoughtful conservation techniques can truly make a difference.
Marriage Markets: A Unique Take on Arranged Marriages in China
While arranged marriages happen globally, China has developed a distinctive approach. In parks across the country, parents gather holding “resumes” that showcase key details about their children, such as age, income, and education. Other parents then browse these profiles, hoping to find a suitable match for their own child.
The concept is similar to a real-life version of a dating app, and these gatherings have become so popular that they’ve earned the name “marriage markets.” The term has a certain charm, capturing the community aspect and the cultural tradition of matchmaking in a modern context.
Where There’s A Will, There’s A Way: Unstoppable Delivery in Action
This image is a testament to sheer determination and impressive organizational skills. Rather than making multiple trips, this delivery person has expertly packed everything onto a single load. We’re not sure why he didn’t just opt for two or even ten trips, but we’re grateful he didn’t—because this photo captures his incredible balance, knot-tying, and control over his bike.
It’s a sight to behold, and it speaks volumes about the dedication of Chinese delivery workers. Once they set their mind to a task, there’s truly nothing that can stand in their way.
China’s Thrilling Glass Bridge: A Walk for the Brave
If heights or bridges make you nervous, this might not be for you. The stunning glass bridge in southern China stretches 1,400 feet across the Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon, giving visitors a thrilling view of the vast drop below. Suspended 980 feet above the canyon floor, the bridge offers an unforgettable experience for those daring enough to cross it.
Thankfully, this bridge has had a solid safety record since its opening. However, another glass bridge in northern China recently made headlines when a strong gust left a man clinging to the edge. It’s a reminder that while these bridges offer breathtaking views, they’re not for the faint-hearted!
Live Crab Vending Machines: Fresh Seafood on the Go in Nanjing
In Nanjing, China, vending machines offer an unexpected twist—live crabs! These unique machines are conveniently located in subway stations, allowing commuters to purchase fresh, live crabs as easily as grabbing a snack. Each crab is kept at the ideal temperature to maintain freshness, providing seafood enthusiasts with an unusual way to enjoy a traditional delicacy.
The concept has gained attention for its novelty, making it a must-try experience for anyone curious or fond of cooking. While we can’t guarantee the taste, the promise of fresh, live seafood straight from a vending machine is certainly intriguing. If you’re ever in Nanjing, don’t miss the chance to check out this one-of-a-kind culinary offering!
A Robot-Run Bank: High-Tech Banking in Shanghai
In 2018, China Construction Bank opened a groundbreaking branch in Shanghai, staffed primarily by AI technology rather than people. Using facial recognition and robots, this high-tech bank aims to handle around 90% of customer needs efficiently and accurately. While the concept of a fully automated bank may seem futuristic, it’s not everyone’s ideal experience.
For those who prefer human interaction, the bank provides an option to speak with a real person via video link in a private room. This balance between automation and human support allows customers to choose their preferred service style—though many of us might still lean toward the human touch.
China’s Upside Down House: A Quirky Attraction in Fengjing Ancient Town
This isn’t a camera trick—this house in Fengjing Ancient Town, south of Shanghai, is indeed upside down! Built as a tourist attraction in 2014, it draws visitors with its surreal design, complete with furniture fastened to what would typically be the ceiling.
Fengjing Ancient Town is renowned for its history, scenic canals, and ancient bridges, but the upside down house stands out as a particularly quirky highlight. While the town’s classic beauty is captivating, this unique attraction adds a fun and unexpected twist to the experience, making it a must-see for curious travelers.
China’s Red Beach: A Stunning Natural Wonder in Liaoning
China’s famous Red Beach isn’t a beach in the traditional sense; it’s actually a vibrant wetland in Liaoning Province. Each fall, a unique type of seaweed turns a stunning red, creating an otherworldly landscape that draws visitors from near and far. The wetlands are also a haven for diverse bird species, making it an essential stop for wildlife enthusiasts.
Fortunately, Red Beach is a protected area, ensuring its beauty and biodiversity are preserved for generations to come. Although much of the area is restricted to safeguard the delicate ecosystem, designated sections remain open to tourists eager to experience this breathtaking sight.
Chinese Masks: Practical Protection with a Touch of Style
Long before the pandemic, it was common to see people in China wearing masks, primarily due to air pollution in highly industrialized cities. With increased industrial activity came heightened pollution, prompting many to wear masks to protect themselves while outdoors. The abundance of factories also allowed for a variety of mask styles, giving people the chance to personalize their protection.
In this photo, a woman wears a unique fluffy pink mask—something not typically seen elsewhere. In many ways, masks were already a style statement in China, blending practicality with individuality well before masks became essential worldwide.
Traffic on Another Level: China’s Unbelievable Jam
China’s traffic challenges are truly in a league of their own, with the country holding the world record for the longest traffic jam in history. This infamous incident took place in Beijing, where vehicles were stuck for a staggering 12 days, with the jam stretching about 62 miles.
Imagine being confined to the road for nearly two weeks! Understandably, frustrations ran high, but as shown in this photo, some drivers managed to make the best of the situation, stepping out of their cars to chat and pass the time. This colossal traffic jam underscores the scale of transportation issues in one of the world’s most populated nations and serves as a reminder of the unique challenges of urban life in China.
China’s Giant Thermoses: A Cultural Essential
In China, the thermos is more than just a convenient item—it’s an everyday essential for those who prioritize health. While in many parts of the world thermoses are mainly used for carrying coffee or soup, in China, people use them to keep their water hot, reflecting a traditional belief that drinking warm water has health benefits.
This preference for hot water is deeply rooted in Chinese culture, where large thermoses are popular for their ability to maintain warmth throughout the day. So, if you spot people in China carrying sizable thermoses, they’re more than just water bottles—they represent a unique cultural practice that blends health, tradition, and daily life.
China’s Quirky Art Installations: Giant Rubber Duck in Beijing
Rubber ducks might be beloved toys worldwide, but in Beijing, you can find them on a much larger scale. A giant rubber duck art installation floats on a body of water, creating a surreal scene with tiny fishing boats nearby, offering a playful sense of scale.
This whimsical piece was created by artist Florentijn Hofman, who crafts enormous rubber ducks and sends them to cities around the world. The installation has become a favorite for travelers and locals alike, adding a fun, quirky touch to the cityscape and reminding us of the joy found in everyday objects, no matter their size.
China’s Chili Eating Competition: A Spicy Showdown in Hunan
For fans of spicy food, Hunan province’s chili eating competition is a must-see. Participants sit in a pool surrounded by floating chilis and race to eat as many as possible in a limited time. In 2018, one brave contestant set an impressive record by eating 50 chilis in a short span.
The competition is intense, with the fiery heat bringing many contestants to tears. Thankfully, medical staff are on hand to ensure everyone’s safety. The stakes are high, too—the winner receives a 24-karat gold coin, adding extra motivation for those daring enough to take on this ultimate spice challenge in the heart of China’s chili-loving region.
China’s Ghost Cities: Ambitious Projects Left Empty
Scattered across China, travelers may encounter vast, empty developments known as “ghost cities.” These monumental housing projects were constructed to accommodate the country’s large population, yet some remain eerily uninhabited. Many of these cities were abandoned mid-construction as banks financing the projects began running out of funds, leaving construction incomplete.
This has left numerous buyers, who already made payments, with uncertainty about the future of their investments. These abandoned areas now stand as stark reminders of the challenges within China’s rapid urban expansion, creating surreal, empty cityscapes that capture the attention of both locals and visitors alike.
China’s Counterfeit Goods: A Quirky Shopping Adventure
China is often associated with counterfeit goods, but this reputation has its own unique appeal. Where else can you find amusing knockoffs, like shoes that look like a mix between Nike and Apple? Shopping for these quirky counterfeits is almost a pastime, offering a chance to discover offbeat, one-of-a-kind items.
For those venturing to China to explore these markets, it’s wise to keep an eye on prices and avoid overpaying. Fortunately, haggling is common, allowing shoppers to negotiate and enjoy a playful shopping experience. These bustling markets highlight China’s resourcefulness and the lighter side of its counterfeit culture.
Raise a Glass: Sichuan’s Love for Baijiu
In China, each region has its own specialties—some known for food, others for clothing. In Sichuan province, however, it’s all about baijiu, a beloved and powerful spirit. Baijiu is incredibly popular in China, accounting for roughly a third of global alcohol sales.
It’s such an integral part of local culture that you might even spot buildings shaped like baijiu bottles when passing through the region, showcasing its cultural significance. For travelers, sampling baijiu in its home region offers a unique taste of China’s traditions, and these bottle-shaped landmarks serve as an unforgettable reminder of its popularity.
Explore the Dragon Escalator: A Unique Ride at China’s Largest Dam
China’s largest dam offers more than impressive views; it features a dragon-shaped escalator that transports visitors to the top in a truly memorable way. This unique structure allows travelers to journey inside a dragon, with escalators hidden within that carry you upwards. There’s a catch, though—the dragon only takes you up.
To descend, visitors must either take a long staircase or opt for a toboggan ride down, which requires an additional fee. But for the chance to experience a one-of-a-kind dragon ride to the top, it’s well worth the climb!
The Land of Flash Mobs: China’s Surprising Street Scenes
Flash mobs may have faded from social media trends, but they’re alive and well in China, especially among older adults who use them as a fun way to stay active. These spontaneous gatherings bring energy to public spaces as groups come together for synchronized dancing or exercise. While some locals find the noise disruptive, many appreciate the lively atmosphere flash mobs add to city life.
For visitors, stumbling upon one of these vibrant scenes can be both surprising and memorable. It’s a unique cultural twist that reflects China’s love for community activities, blending fitness and entertainment on the streets.
Police Geese: Xinjiang’s Unique Approach to Law Enforcement
While police dogs are common worldwide, Xinjiang, China, took an unexpected approach in 2013 by introducing geese to their police force. Unlike in many countries, dogs aren’t as widely favored in China, leading the police to seek an alternative.
Known for their keen hearing and vigilance, geese have proven to be surprisingly effective at detecting unusual activity. Although they may lack a dog’s tracking abilities, their loud honking and assertive presence make them a formidable choice for security. These “police geese” add an interesting twist to law enforcement, showing that animals other than dogs can serve important roles in keeping communities safe.
Alligator, Anyone? A Unique Culinary Display in China
Traveling often means discovering foods that may seem unusual to outsiders, and China is no exception. While some in the West, especially in parts of the U.S., are comfortable with eating alligator, the presentation here in China takes it to a new level.
Whole alligators are displayed with fruits in their mouths, reminiscent of the way a roasted pig might be served with an apple. This quirky touch adds an unexpected, almost artistic element to the dish, showcasing a unique blend of traditional cooking and cultural creativity. It’s a memorable sight for adventurous foodies exploring China’s diverse culinary landscape.
Air in a Can: Capitalism Meets Demand in China
While China is officially a communist country, its economy shows some strong capitalistic streaks—like the creative sale of canned “fresh air.” Surprisingly, this product took off, with around 8 million cans reportedly sold in just 10 days. Though it might seem unusual, there’s a clear reason for its success.
Due to rapid industrialization, air pollution in many cities has become a significant concern, and accurate air quality reports aren’t always accessible. This canned air provides a momentary breath of fresh, clean air, appealing to those seeking relief from pollution. It’s a clever response to an environmental issue, showing how innovation can tap into real needs.
Women-Only Parking: A Controversial Convenience in China
Women-only parking spaces have stirred debate across China, where many cities have introduced these designated spots. The idea sparks mixed reactions: some see it as a gesture of courtesy or equality, while others view it as potentially reinforcing stereotypes about women’s driving abilities.
Notably, these spaces tend to be larger, leading some to question if this design perpetuates the notion that women struggle with parking. Regardless of perspective, women-only parking is a unique feature rarely found in other parts of the world, leaving travelers surprised and locals divided on its purpose and impact.
China’s Bike Problem: When Supply Exceeds Demand
In China, shared public bikes are incredibly popular, but this photo reveals an unexpected side of the story—a massive pile of abandoned bikes awaiting recycling or disposal. These hundreds, if not thousands, of discarded bikes accumulated after one of China’s largest bike-sharing companies went out of business.
The scene highlights a growing issue in cities where bike-sharing companies have flooded the streets, perhaps with more bikes than there is actual demand. While these services have offered convenience, the sheer volume of unused bikes now points to a need for better planning and sustainable management of the bike-sharing boom.
Crowded Public Pools: Beating the Heat in China’s Packed Pools
With China’s vast population, public spaces can get exceptionally crowded, and pools are no exception. This photo captures a public pool so packed with people that it seems there’s barely room for the water itself. This scene isn’t unusual, especially during heatwaves when thousands flock to these pools to escape the soaring temperatures.
The intense crowding is a common sight in many urban areas, where public pools become popular relief spots. For some, the sheer volume of people can be overwhelming, and after seeing such a packed pool, staying indoors might seem like a more comfortable option!
Creative Cargo Loads: China’s Unconventional Road Transport
China has strict road rules, yet scenes like this showcase some unique interpretations of cargo transport. In this photo, a single trailer hauls multiple trucks, with two visibly hanging off the back, seemingly held by just a few tow straps. How this setup manages to stay balanced—or even legal—is anyone’s guess, but the ingenuity and skill required are clear.
Such unconventional arrangements are not rare on Chinese roads, where resourcefulness meets practicality. These ambitious setups reflect the challenges of transporting heavy goods in densely populated areas, resulting in sights that may baffle outsiders but demonstrate a surprising mastery of improvisation on the road.
Anything on a Stick: China’s Adventurous Street Food
China’s street food is known for its creativity and daring flavors, and this photo captures some of the most unusual items on offer—served on sticks for easy, on-the-go snacking. From seahorses and starfish to scorpions and cockroaches, these unique treats certainly aren’t for the faint-hearted. While the seahorses and starfish might seem more approachable, the scorpions and cockroaches require a bit more bravery.
For adventurous eaters, these snacks offer a chance to dive into a different food culture, experiencing a variety of flavors and textures that push culinary boundaries and redefine the idea of “fast food.”
Weekend Comfort: Pajama Fashion in China
In China, the weekend is all about relaxation, and for some, that means staying cozy in their pajamas—even when out and about. It’s not unusual to see people dressed in comfortable sleepwear while running errands, shopping, or strolling around. This cultural trend reflects an easygoing approach to weekends, where comfort takes priority.
The man in this photo embodies this relaxed spirit, looking content in his pajamas as he goes about his day. China might just be on to something with this casual weekend attire, showing that sometimes, the most comfortable outfit is the best choice for unwinding.
Subway Supermarkets: Convenience Meets Commute in China
China’s bustling public transport system is designed to serve millions, and now it’s also a place to shop. Many subway stations across China have introduced large supermarkets, providing commuters with easy access to groceries and essentials right on their route.
These markets resemble traditional supermarkets but are uniquely located within subway stations for added convenience. While some stalls may carry counterfeit goods and prices can vary, these subway markets offer a glimpse into urban life in China, blending shopping with commuting in a way few other places do. It’s a unique experience for any traveler exploring China’s efficient public transport system.
Finding Ramen in China: A Taste of Japan with Chinese Roots
Ramen, that beloved bowl of noodles, has a way of captivating fans worldwide. While it’s now one of Japan’s most popular dishes—impressive in a cuisine known for sushi and other iconic foods—ramen’s origins trace back to China. Chinese immigrants brought the dish to Japan in the early 20th century, where it quickly gained a devoted following.
Today, if you’re traveling in China, you can still find delicious ramen offerings that celebrate this culinary link between the two countries. While it may not inspire acrobatics like in the photo, a good bowl of ramen can certainly make you wonder how you ever lived without it!
Two Iconic Brands, One Curious Storefront
It’s not often you see two rival brands sharing a storefront—especially tech giants like Apple and Samsung. While this unusual setup might initially seem like a unique collaboration, it’s likely not an official partnership. Instead, it’s probably a local tech store selling products from both brands under one roof, aiming to attract customers loyal to either.
The sight of these competing logos side by side is eye-catching, if not a bit humorous, as it blurs the fierce rivalry between the two. Whether it’s a clever marketing tactic or just a bold design choice, it’s sure to draw in tech fans from both camps.
Street Dentists: An Unexpected Find in Chinese Markets
Chinese markets are famous for their variety, offering everything from fresh produce to unexpected services—like street dentistry. In bustling market spaces, you may come across dentists performing procedures outdoors, often with minimal equipment. While intriguing, this practice raises questions about hygiene, as it’s unlikely that tools can be fully sterilized amid the crowded environment.
Though it’s a fascinating glimpse into the diverse offerings of Chinese markets, most would probably think twice before opting for dental work in such a setting. For those who find regular dental offices daunting, this street-side alternative might feel even more intimidating!
Unique Hairstyles: A Tribute to Chairman Mao in Hair Art
This striking hairstyle might not be a common sight in China, but it showcases the lengths some individuals go to in honoring the Communist Party. In this detailed cut, a barber has impressively recreated the Chairman Mao Memorial Hall, a popular attraction in Beijing that houses Mao’s remains.
The intricate design even includes a tiny flag and dyed sections to capture Mao’s image beneath the hall’s columns. This style is both a bold fashion statement and a tribute, demonstrating impressive artistry and dedication. It’s a unique way to blend cultural pride with personal expression in a truly memorable look.
Catching Some Shut-Eye: The Art of Public Napping in China
Public napping is common worldwide, but this man in China has taken it to an impressive level, balancing his entire body on a thin chain for a quick rest. His skillful positioning almost resembles lying on a hammock, showing an unusual mix of balance and relaxation.
Despite the crowd around him, he seems perfectly at ease, possibly even dreaming of a more peaceful setting. It’s a unique sight that showcases both resourcefulness and comfort, turning an everyday moment into something remarkable. For onlookers, it’s both amusing and admirable—a display of how even the busiest city streets can become a place for rest.
Unusual Gas Station Warnings: No Dynamite, Please!
At gas stations, signs warning against smoking are standard, but this Chinese gas pump takes it a step further with an unusual warning: a symbol of dynamite being lit with a match. It’s oddly specific—cautioning not just against bringing dynamite near the pump, but specifically against lighting it! While the scenario seems improbable, it certainly grabs attention and adds a touch of humor to an otherwise routine safety measure.
The overly detailed warning might make you wonder about its origin, but it’s hard not to appreciate the quirkiness and the extra emphasis on safety, however unlikely the situation.
China’s Annual Lantern Festival: A Tradition of Light and Remembrance
The Chinese Lantern Festival, celebrated annually on the 15th day of the Lunar New Year, has roots that reach back thousands of years. Originally a Buddhist ritual, the Han Dynasty popularized it as a way to honor deceased ancestors, creating a tradition that has continued through the centuries. Today, the festival sees thousands of glowing lanterns released into the night sky, symbolizing hope, remembrance, and the celebration of new beginnings.
While the Lantern Festival is widely observed across China, its beauty has inspired similar festivals in other parts of the world, where people gather to experience the enchanting glow of lanterns lighting up the night.
