On July 12, Wang Hongyan was near the Tianxin Pavilion Antique Market in Changsha. He traveled across 30 provinces on a bicycle, covering 35,000 km.
A black hat with black sunglasses on top, a blue T-shirt, gray sweatpants, and a pair of sneakers — this is Wang Hongyan. He spent two years cycling across 30 provinces, covering 35,000 km. In September, he will head abroad to explore Southeast Asia.
A bicycle, along with a tent, sleeping bag, and a change of clothes, make up all of Wang Hongyan’s belongings. The 29-year-old looks much more mature than his peers.
Wang Hongyan is from Nong’an County, Changchun. On September 7, 2011, he left home on his bicycle, planning to take an extended break. He wanted a fresh start and to seek new business opportunities. Wang said he has visited 30 provinces and traveled 35,000 km, learning about the local history and culture at every stop.
In July, he arrived in Nanchang, where his bicycle — which had been with him for two years — was stolen. Local police helped retrieve it within 46 hours. However, the bike was badly damaged. A kind local gave him a new one. “That old bike held my memories, so I sent it back home,” Wang said.
During his journey, Wang Hongyan would sleep in his tent when tired and grab a quick bite when hungry. In September, he will go abroad to cycle through Southeast Asia. He will start from Guangxi, passing through Vietnam, Myanmar, Thailand, and Laos, before returning to Yunnan. After this trip, he plans to start a new business venture.