The only full-time delivery rider in a remote county in the Tibet region of southwestern China delivers up to 200 orders a day while juggling multiple roles.
Huang Kaihong, 24, who is known as “China’s loneliest rider”, works in Medog, a county of Nyingchi, once the last place in the country to be linked by a road.
Nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas and home to fewer than 15,000 residents, Medog relies on Huang as its lifeline, keeping the community connected.
In August 2024, Alibaba’s food delivery service, Taobao Shangou, formerly known as Ele.me, arrived in Medog. Alibaba Group also owns the South China Morning Post.
Since being introduced by a friend, Huang has become the county’s only full-time delivery rider.
In a recent interview with Taobao Shangou, Huang revealed that he was born in Sichuan province, southwestern China, and had always been captivated by the landscapes of Tibet.
With help from Nyingchi city’s delivery station manager, he visited more than 300 local businesses in Medog, promoting the service and setting up their menus on the platform.
Riding a motorcycle and dressed in an orange uniform, Huang delivers up to 200 orders a day.
Reports show that delivery riders in China’s first-tier cities typically handle 40 to 60 orders daily, earning four to eight yuan (60 US cents to US$1) per order.
Huang said that the long rainy season and rough mountain roads often lead to slips, and this means his vehicle needs significant time and money for upkeep.
Despite the challenges, he enjoys his work, describing it as a source of freedom.
“I enjoy the wind on the road and the money I earn from each order keeps me grounded,” said Huang.
In his free time, Huang also explores scenic spots, riding his motorcycle to visit waterfalls and snow-capped mountains.
He has grown accustomed to loneliness, describing it as “something I was born with”.
Given the operation’s small scale, Huang not only delivers orders but also oversees the delivery station, manages business operations and sometimes mediates local disputes. His monthly earnings have not been disclosed.
The arrival of Taobao Shangou has been warmly embraced by local restaurants. One merchant reported a 30 per cent boost in daily sales and expressed her delight with every new order notification.
Huang has reportedly become a well-known figure among food vendors in Medog and a new part-time rider has recently joined to help him.
When alone, Huang often calls his grandmother in his hometown.
He said that once he had saved enough money, he planned to settle in Dali, in Yunnan province, southwestern China, which is known for its year-round springlike climate.
Huang’s story and related posts have gained more than 2 million views on mainland social media.
One online observer said: “Huang is a hardworking and capable young man. He cannot afford to take a break or many people would go without their meals.”
“His success lies in mastering one field. His story can inspire many young people to pursue opportunities in remote areas,” said another. -- SOUTH CHINA MORNING POST
