RedNote users are welcoming an influx of TikTok refugees, many of whom are curious about life in China.
With the looming threat of TikTok bans in various countries, many TikTokers are refusing to sit idly by. Instead, they’ve turned their attention to RedNote, a Chinese social media platform known in its home country as Xiaohongshu. This app, which translates to “Little Red Book,” is quickly gaining traction among TikTok’s global fanbase as a refuge for short-form video enthusiasts. Curious about the buzz, I spent some time exploring the platform, and it’s clear why “TikTok refugees” are flocking there—and why Chinese users seem excited to welcome them.
From Shopping to Social Media Powerhouse
Launched in 2013, RedNote began as a shopping-focused platform where users shared reviews and recommendations. Over the years, it evolved into a vibrant hub for photo, video, and written content. Today, RedNote is one of China’s most popular apps, boasting millions of active users. Now, it’s experiencing a sudden surge in popularity outside of China, with more than 700,000 new users joining the platform in just two days, according to a report by Reuters. While this is a small fraction compared to TikTok’s massive 150 million U.S.-based user base, it’s a sign that RedNote’s influence is spreading beyond its original borders.
A Playful Nod to History
The name “Xiaohongshu” (小红书) might seem whimsical, but it’s also steeped in cultural nuance. As CNN notes, it could be seen as a tongue-in-cheek reference to Mao Zedong’s famous “Little Red Book” of quotations. However, the app’s focus is far removed from politics. Instead, it’s a lifestyle-oriented platform where users share sleek fashion looks, mouthwatering food videos, travel diaries, and everyday moments. For many U.S.-based TikTokers, diving into this world feels like a refreshing cultural exchange—or, in some cases, an act of defiance against potential bans on their beloved app.
TikTokers Meet RedNote
As I scrolled through RedNote, it was fascinating to see how TikTok’s displaced creators are making their presence known. Among the Chinese-language posts featuring fit checks, food adventures, and memes, there’s an increasing number of TikTokers’ content. Some are embracing the cultural shift with humor. One user jokingly documented their “transformation” from a gun-toting, Buc-ee’s merchandise-loving American into a Chinese-speaking RedNote enthusiast. Others are introducing themselves with simple captions like “Hi, everyone!” often accompanied by what appears to be machine-translated Chinese.
The reactions from RedNote’s Chinese-speaking community are equally entertaining and heartwarming. Many users have rolled out the virtual red carpet, offering tips on navigating the app and sharing insights about Chinese culture. One creator suggested the platform is a perfect gateway for exploring Chinese traditions, especially with the Chinese New Year approaching. Another user humorously described RedNote’s obsessions, claiming users are “into Luigi, Trump, and Squid Game.” A few even volunteered to teach their new community members Chinese, making the cultural exchange even more enriching.
Building Cross-Cultural Connections
What’s striking about this migration is the genuine curiosity TikTokers and RedNote users are showing toward one another. U.S.-based users are asking their Chinese counterparts about everyday life. “Post pictures of your meal or snacks for today! Curious to see what you typically eat,” one TikToker wrote. Another asked, “I’m American. Do y’all like us? We know y’all aren’t the enemy. Can we all be friends?”
These interactions feel surprisingly wholesome in an era where social media is often criticized for fueling division. Instead of focusing on differences, these users are finding common ground and learning from one another in ways that transcend borders and politics.
Will RedNote’s Popularity Last?
While the sudden influx of TikTokers has brought a lively new energy to RedNote, it’s unclear how long this trend will last. Social media migrations often follow a predictable cycle: initial excitement, widespread adoption, and eventual burnout as users move on to the next big thing. Moreover, as apps like RedNote gain popularity outside their home countries, they risk facing the same scrutiny and potential bans that TikTok is currently dealing with.
For now, though, the migration to RedNote is an intriguing social experiment. It’s a testament to how adaptable and resilient online communities can be. Whether this trend is fleeting or marks the beginning of a more globalized RedNote remains to be seen. But one thing is certain: the app has given TikTokers—and curious explorers like myself—a fascinating glimpse into a new digital frontier.
So, if you’re looking for a fresh platform to explore, or you’re simply curious about the cultural phenomenon that is RedNote, now might be the perfect time to dive in. Who knows? You might find yourself learning a few Chinese phrases, discovering new recipes, or simply enjoying the creative energy of this unique platform. For now, it’s clear that RedNote isn’t just a refuge for TikTokers; it’s a meeting ground for cultures, ideas, and a whole lot of fun.
