INFLUENCER

When asked about the most popular influencer on Chinese social media, many would point to none other than Auntie Wang the Matchmaker.

For the past six years, Zhao Mei, affectionately known as Auntie Wang, has captivated audiences at a martial-arts-themed tourist spot at Wansui Mountain Scenic Area in Kaifeng, Central China’s Henan Province.

Every day, the 61-year-old dons Song Dynasty (960-1279) period costume to perform as Auntie Wang the Matchmaker. But what began as a tourist performance has evolved into a genuine daily matchmaking event, where Auntie Wang invites single women on stage to share their age, background and preferences in a partner. She then calls on interested men who meet the criteria to step forward for a chance at finding love, and encourages the potential couple to exchange Wechat details.

More than 50 of Auntie Wang’s matches have reportedly tied the knot in the past year alone. Her live dating show went viral on social media in March, particularly on Douyin (China’s Tiktok), where she has gained over 6.29 million followers.

Her blend of humor, wit and expressiveness give her events a lighthearted atmosphere. Many netizens said that Auntie Wang’s live matchmaking is far more interesting than the hit reality dating show You Are the One. Auntie Wang’s rising fame has also boosted tourism to Kaifeng. Enthusiastic crowds of tourists from across the country and beyond flock to Wansui Mountain to take part in her entertaining events, igniting buzz of Auntie Wang taking her show on the road to help more young people find their soulmates.