In 11/2025, Yu arrived in Hangzhou with over 1,000 yuan (approximately 3,7 million VND) to find work. However, he found himself penniless after being scammed by a fraudulent employment agency. Unwilling to borrow money, the 26-year-old decided to walk over 1,400 km back to his hometown to save on expenses. "Rich or poor, everyone hopes to be home for Tet," Yu said, explaining his motivation.

Yu Chou, 26, walked from Hangzhou to Chongqing on 5/12/2025, and his worn-out shoes from walking over 1,400 km. Photo: Jimu News

Yu's journey began on 5/12/2025 with just a rolling suitcase. After 53 days, he had worn out three pairs of shoes, their soles cracked from constant friction with the road. To maintain his strength on a zero budget, Yu ate only one meal a day and slept in a personal tent pitched by the roadside. In nearly two months of travel, he showered four times.

Initially, using a pedestrian map, Yu often got lost on remote, treacherous paths. He then switched to bicycle navigation mode and traveled along national highways.

To combat loneliness and document his memories, Yu began livestreaming his journey on social media. From an unknown account, Yu's channel attracted over 5,000 regular followers. The 3,000 yuan (approximately 11 million VND) donated by viewers helped him cover food expenses along the way.

What touched Yu the most was not the harsh weather but the kindness of strangers. In Anhui, a fellow countryman invited him home for a meal and rest to regain his strength. Upon reaching Hubei, a viewer following his journey welcomed him to a traditional year-end party and provided additional necessities.

On 28/1, Yu reached Hubei province, approximately 120 km from home. He expected to arrive in Chongqing in about five days, just in time for New Year's Eve.

"The trip helped me realize I can achieve things if I'm persistent, instead of giving up easily as before," Yu stated.

After the Tet holiday, Yu plans to continue challenging himself with a 10,000 km walk to Tibet in 2026, while also developing his digital content creation career.