China ‘history fangirls’ visit mausoleums, write books, marking rapid growth in heritage tourism
Devotees of historical figures make pilgrimages to ancient sites to pay tribute, but concerns mount over environmental pollution
In quiet corners of China, a growing community is forging a deep, almost personal connection with history.
Known as “history fangirls”, they visit the museums and mausoleums, write books about them and are keen on related merchandise.
One such devotee, a woman known online as @bufashi, spent the past year visiting 52 gravesites, travelling through remote mountains and forests in search of the resting places of ancient Chinese figures.
Each solo trip is more than an act of remembrance; it is a way to connect with long-dead idols whose lives have shaped the present.
The phenomenon first gained traction last April, when some young people shared their Ching Ming Festival travels online, posting photographs of themselves leaving unusual tributes at mausoleums.
They offered painkillers and snacks to generals, wine and calligraphy brushes to poets.