Photo taken on May 24, 2022 shows a stone inscription of Mount Taishan in east China's Shandong Province. Photo:Xinhua
A man who offers climbing companionship services at Mount Taishan scenic area in Tai'an, East China's Shandong Province, claimed to have earned over 300,000 yuan ($41,400) last year, sparking debate. Some of his peers said that this job is very meaningful, while others question his salary, claiming that it has been exaggerated.
Zhang, a 26-year-old sports graduate, works as a professional hiking companion on Mount Taishan. In an interview with the Beijing News, Zhang shared that he climbs Mount Taishan twice daily, providing services during both day and night.
Zhang's responsibilities include route planning, safety guidance, backpack assistance, photography, cultural interpretation, and checkpoint support for hikers. For exhausted visitors, Zhang may provide physical assistance, including carrying them on his shoulders, offering piggyback rides, or supporting them by the arm—especially during night-time climbs, when safety risks are higher.
The service costs 600 yuan during the day, increasing to 700 yuan at night due to safety considerations. His customer base predominantly consists of females aged between 20 and 35.
Zhang acknowledged that while the job is physically demanding, he finds it rewarding and enjoyable. He said that accompanying climbers not only keeps him fit but has also helped him forge friendships with like-minded people. However, he emphasized that the role isn't for everyone—it requires strong physical stamina and communication skills.
"My job is very meaningful," said Yang, another Mount Taishan hiking companion. "Some tourists arrive feeling stressed or down, but as we chat, laugh, and share stories, their mood improves," Yang said, adding that the experience can be therapeutic and relaxing.
Zhang claimed that his Mount Taishan hiking companion service earned him over 300,000 yuan last year.
However, Yan, another hiking companion, questioned Zhang's reported earnings. Yan noted that completing two climbs a day brings in about 1,300 yuan. "Even without a single day off monthly, we will make at most 40,000 to 50,000 yuan, but no one can sustain that," said Yan.
While Yan considered the 300,000-yuan claim exaggerated, he admitted that an annual income of 150,000 to 200,000 yuan is realistic.
Global Times
