In China’s latest social media trend, urban youths are seen foraging in public parks as their new favorite weekend getaway. The viral sensation is called dǎ yě, with a literal translation of hunting the wild. Dǎ yě also means “ganking,” a video game slang referring to when players gang up to kill their opponent. So, instead of slaughtering in-game foes, people have turned to “ganking” plants irl.

In fact, city foraging isn’t entirely new in China, it has long been a common sight among aunties and uncles. But recently, young people have been flocking to public parks and mountain trails, armed with plastic bags and collapsible shovels, to dig for their next meal. Ganking has particularly taken off in big cities like Shanghai and Chengdu, offering a wallet-friendly outdoor activity to replace those pricey weekend outings.

Online, netizens share their “loot” and help each other identify edible plants, some are even offering professional ganking guided tours. Ganking isn’t about saving money on your daily greens, but a refreshing way to socialize, build community, and connect with nature.

For many, ganking is very satisfying and stress-relieving. One RedNote post described the experience as, “ganking that heals the soul,” while another said it was “very relaxing, an emotional therapy.” Another user shared that her crush invited her to go ganking for their first date, a commenter replied, “he shared his ganking location with you, it means he really likes you!”

It seems like urban dwellers are constantly coming up with creative ways to escape the hustle of city life. Other popular outdoor trends in China include Citywalk, a personalized and intimate way of exploring cities on foot. Or Jian Qiu, gathering and displaying fallen leaves in autumn. And Wildeat, a picnic with friends in nature. 

Cover image via RedNote.