here’s a full, practical article about the “Daka 打卡” culture in China, tailored for tourism professionals and SMEs. I am Olivier VEROT and I will explain with super actionable, and written like a consultant who knows China marketing inside-out.

STARTING 🙂

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Understanding “Daka” Culture: How to Attract Chinese Tourists Through Photogenic Experiences

Have you ever seen Chinese tourists line up at one particular café corner, mural, or rooftop just to take a photo?

That’s “Daka 打卡” culture in action. 😉

City of Chongqing Abuse of this Strategy.

“Daka” literally means “to punch the clock,” but in modern slang it means to check in at a trendy spot, take photos, and share them on social media. For Chinese tourists, “Daka” is more than sightseeing ; it’s about creating proof of experience, joining trends, and showing friends they’ve been somewhere special.

For destinations and hospitality businesses, understanding this culture is a goldmine. If you create photogenic spots and encourage user-generated content (UGC), you can turn every visitor into a promoter on platforms like Douyin and Xiaohongshu. (Rednotes)

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Why “Daka” Matters for Chinese Travelers

So, why do Chinese tourists value “Daka” so much?

1. Social currency. Sharing a photo from a trending spot is like saying “I was there, too.” It builds status among peers.
2. Proof of lifestyle. Photos show not just where they traveled, but also their taste, style, and identity.
3. Travel planning. Chinese tourists often decide where to go based on what looks photogenic online. If your spot is not visually appealing, it’s less likely to be chosen.
4. Trend chasing. A new café, mural, or observation deck can go viral quickly. People visit simply to “Daka” the hot location. Example on Linkedin

This explains why hotels, restaurants, and attractions that offer striking photo opportunities see higher engagement and free marketing through UGC.

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Platforms Where “Daka” Lives

Chinese tourists don’t use Instagram, but they have their own powerful platforms.

• Xiaohongshu (RED): This is the home of “Daka.” Travelers post travel diaries and photogenic spots. One beautiful post can inspire thousands of others to visit.
• Douyin: Short videos showcasing “Daka” moments — like a rooftop view, creative dish, or unique hotel design — spread fast and influence travel choices.
• WeChat Channels: Travelers share their “check-ins” privately with friends and groups. This is more intimate but equally powerful for word-of-mouth.

If you’re not visible here, you’re invisible to the “Daka” crowd.

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How SMEs Can Create “Daka” Moments

I think even small businesses can benefit from this trend. You don’t need a million-dollar design budget : it s just creativity and attention to detail.

Example

1. Design Photogenic Spots

Oh yes ! Think of corners, backdrops, or props that guests naturally want to photograph. Examples:

• A colorful mural on your restaurant wall.
• A rooftop or balcony with a clear city view.
• A unique, oversized local dish that looks great in photos.
• A boutique hotel room with striking design elements (swing chair, neon sign, flower wall).

The goal: every guest should find at least one “wow” spot worth sharing.

2. Offer Photography Services

Many Chinese tourists love professional-looking photos. You can:

• Offer a mini photography package with a local photographer.
• Provide a free “staff photo” service where employees help guests take better shots.
• Add props like hats, parasols, or signs with your brand name in Chinese.

Small touches make visitors more likely to post.

3. Encourage UGC Sharing

Don’t just hope people share :invite them.

• Add signs with hashtags (in Chinese) and your Douyin/RED account QR code.
• Create a reward program: repost guest photos on your account, or offer a free drink for tagging you.
• Print a small card: “Loved your visit? Share your photo on Xiaohongshu and tag us for a chance to be featured.”

The easier you make it, the more posts you’ll get.

4. Highlight UGC in Your Marketing

Repost guest photos on your WeChat account and display them on your website. This builds credibility. Chinese travelers trust peer photos more than official ads.

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Practical Tips for Hotels

If you run a hotel, here’s how to attract “Daka” guests:

• Create a photogenic lobby corner with lighting designed for selfies.
• Add rooftop or balcony setups with chairs, plants, and city/nature backdrops.
• Provide breakfast dishes arranged beautifully for photos.
• Encourage guests to share with a hashtag like #CheckIn[HotelName].

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Practical Tips for Restaurants & Cafés

If you’re in F&B, you have endless opportunities:

• Plate signature dishes with bold colors and unique presentation.
• Use lighting that flatters food photography.
• Add one special corner with creative décor.
• Offer a “photo combo” menu item designed for sharing on Douyin/RED.

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Practical Tips for Attractions & Tours

Tour operators and attractions can:

• Build a signature photo point with a view, arch, or branded prop.
• Offer drone shots or panoramic photo services.
• Give guests a quick “photo map” highlighting the best angles on site.

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Turning “Daka” Into Bookings

Remember: visibility is only step one. To turn “Daka” into revenue:

1. Always include your brand name (in Chinese) in the background, signage, or hashtags.
2. Link your Douyin/RED content to WeChat for easy booking.
3. Track UGC mentions and engage with users — comment, repost, say thanks.
4. Create special offers tied to check-ins: “Show your Xiaohongshu post at reception for 10% off your next stay.”

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Final Take Olivier VEROT

“Daka” culture is not a passing trend — it’s central to how Chinese tourists choose destinations in 2025. They want places that look good on camera, experiences that are fun to share, and proof that they’ve been to the trending spot.

For tourism SMEs, the opportunity is huge. By creating photogenic corners, offering simple photography support, and encouraging UGC sharing, you can turn every visitor into a micro-influencer.

NEED HELP ?

At ChineseTouristAgency.com, we help hotels, restaurants, and attractions design social-media-friendly experiences, run campaigns on Douyin and Xiaohongshu, and generate real leads. If you want your business to be the next “must-check-in” spot for Chinese travelers, we can make it happen. We are specialized in attracting Chinese tourists , really specialized 😉

Olivier VEROT, founder of GMA