Chinamaxxing sparks mixed reactions in China and the U.S.

A TikTok trend called "Chinamaxxing" features non-Chinese creators adopting aspects of Chinese lifestyle and aesthetics; users on Chinese platform RedNote have responded with amusement, pride, discomfort, and criticism, and experts say the trend may reflect soft power influence.

On TikTok, creators who are not Chinese have been posting videos that adopt elements of Chinese daily life and aesthetics, a trend called "Chinamaxxing." Videos show activities such as boiling apples, practicing tai chi at sunrise, and drinking hot water set to traditional instrumentals or clips from Mulan. The clips have drawn millions of views and prompted discussion about cultural exchange and perception. Users on the Chinese platform RedNote have reacted with a mix of amusement, pride, discomfort, and critique over perceived superficial imitation. Reactions and context: - "Chinamaxxing" features non-Chinese creators adopting aspects of Chinese lifestyle and aesthetics on TikTok. - Examples include boiling apples, tai chi at sunrise, and drinking hot water; many videos use traditional Chinese music or film clips. - The trend has attracted millions of views and attention from media and experts. - RedNote users have expressed a range of responses: pride, amusement, discomfort, and concerns about misrepresentation, including around Lunar New Year content. - Some commentators and experts have said the trend may reflect changing views among younger Americans and a form of Chinese soft power. Summary: The trend is prompting conversations about cultural exchange, national image, and authenticity across social platforms in both countries. Undetermined at this time.