Youth Hostels Redefine Travel through Connection and Culture | Invisible Economics

Chongqing - In a world where boutique hotels and luxury resorts often dominate the travel scene, a new generation of travelers is redefining what makes a trip truly memorable. For many, the focus is no longer just on a comfortable bed, but on connecting with others, immersing in local culture, and experiencing authentic moments.

Youth hostels, which originated in Germany, are gaining traction worldwide, particularly in China's vibrant cities. In Chongqing—an "8D city" known for its dramatic urban topography—youth hostels are quickly becoming cultural hubs for both domestic and international travelers. 

One shining example of this new wave is YummyHill Youth Hostel, located in Chongqing's Lianglukou area. Founded in 2020 by post-90s entrepreneur Floyd, the hostel offers a welcoming space that fosters interaction among guests. 

Floyd's inspiration for the hostel comes from his own experiences backpacking through Southeast Asia and Japan, where he discovered the freedom, spontaneity, and warmth that hostels can offer.

YummyHill's design reflects this philosophy. Floyd intentionally minimized staff involvement to encourage guests to interact naturally with each other and the space. "Every corner of the hostel is designed to spark conversation and connection," Floyd explained.

One standout feature of the hostel is its cozy late-night diner, inspired by Japan's Shinya Shokudo (Midnight Diner). More than just a place to eat, this diner serves as a space for guests to unwind, share stories, and build connections. 

"The food is just one part of it," Floyd said. "It's about creating an environment where people feel comfortable being themselves and interacting with others."

For guests like Mahalakshmi Murahari from India, the experience at YummyHill has been transformative. "I've met people from all over the world," Mahalakshmi said. "One night we had a game night, and even though I didn't understand all the rules, everyone was so welcoming."

Floyd shared a heartwarming story about a novelist who lived at YummyHill for over three years, finding inspiration in the sense of community. "He hardly left his room," Floyd laughed. "But he said knowing there were people around made all the difference."

A people-centered business model

While running a hostel may seem laid-back, Floyd stressed that it requires just as much effort as running a traditional hotel. "Hostels aren't about maximizing floor space or amenities," he explained. "They're about creating a space where relationships can flourish between guests."

The financial model of youth hostels also differs from that of traditional hotels. The return on investment can be faster—three to four years compared to five or six for regular hotels—but the real reward lies in building a community. "It's not just about providing beds; it's about connecting people," Floyd added.

The demographics of hostel guests are also evolving. While backpackers were once the primary guests, the majority of YummyHill’s visitors now are solo urban travelers in their 20s. "Around 65% of our guests were born after 2000, and 80% travel alone," Floyd noted. This shift, combined with China's visa-free transit policies and viral social media content, has led to an influx of international travelers.

However, Floyd believed the true magic of Chongqing lies in its daily life, not just its tourist attractions. "We want our guests to slow down, experience the city beyond the tourist spots, and have real interactions," he said. "Walk across a bridge, eat in a back-alley diner, and strike up a conversation with someone new—that's the kind of travel we believe in."

In Chongqing, youth hostels like YummyHill are redefining travel by fostering connections and offering more than just a place to stay—they provide a gateway to authentic, community-centered experiences.

(Huan Ran, as an intern, also contributed to this report.)