Zhejiang Homemaker, 58, Becomes Viral Scenic Spot NPC During Holiday Break
Bastillepost · 1 SOURCESabout 3 hours ago2 MIN
Summary
A 58-year-old full-time housewife from Ningbo, Zhejiang, has unexpectedly become a viral sensation after taking on a part-time role as a "primitive person" non-player character (NPC) at a scenic area during the holiday period. Xu Juan's lively and humorous interactions with visitors earned her internet fame, with tourists now making special trips to the Shanhai Jiulongyuan Scenic Area just to take photos with her. Despite earning 200 yuan (approximately 234 HKD) per day, she emphasizes that the joy the job brings is more valuable than the salary.
Key Points
- Xu Juan, a 58-year-old full-time housewife from Ningbo, Zhejiang, took a holiday part-time job as a "primitive person" NPC at Shanhai Jiulongyuan Scenic Area
- The scenic area posted recruitment in early September for Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day holidays, attracting over 700 people to two recruitment groups with 18 positions quickly filled
- Her working clips were turned into promotional content by the scenic area, propelling her to internet fame, and even neighbors recognize her now
- The daily wage is 200 yuan (about 234 HKD), with meals and costume styling provided
- A journalist who tried the NPC job for half an hour found it exhausting, requiring costume changes, charcoal makeup, and constant shouting to attract visitors
Why It Matters
The phenomenon highlights how scenic area employers are increasingly viewing NPC roles as legitimate entertainment and service jobs with career potential. Chen Ningliu, the scenic area's planning director, says they aim to discover performers with potential from among part-time hires, and those interested may transition to full-time positions . Zhejiang University academic Lin Wei notes that as these roles evolve, the industry will need clearer career development pathways and improved labor protections for workers in this emerging job category .
The phenomenon highlights how scenic area employers are increasingly viewing NPC roles as legitimate entertainment and service jobs with career potential. Chen Ningliu, the scenic area's planning director, says they aim to discover performers with potential from among part-time hires, and those interested may transition to full-time positions . Zhejiang University academic Lin Wei notes that as these roles evolve, the industry will need clearer career development pathways and improved labor protections for workers in this emerging job category .