Viral Night Ride for Dumplings Creates Traffic Chaos in Central China

What began as a social media quest for Kaifeng’s famous dumplings turned into gridlock as thousands of cyclists journeyed 50 kilometres from Zhengzhou, clogging highways and sparking a police response.

Initially fueled by four students’ spontaneous ride for guantangbao dumplings, the “Night Ride to Kaifeng” went viral, drawing tens of thousands on rented bikes to the ancient city.

Kaifeng had anticipated the influx, offered discounts and boosted traffic control, but the surge overwhelmed resources. Congestion stretched across major routes, with cyclists forced to push bikes through packed roads. Many regretted the journey, facing scarce lodging and extended travel times.

Social media filled with criticism, from littering to delays, leading bike rental companies to issue statements discouraging long-distance cycling at night. Authorities later closed major cycling routes and restricted student travel in Zhengzhou, aiming to curb the trend. Despite the setbacks, young riders like Ms. Li say these events highlight a desire for freedom and connection amid growing economic stress.