2-11-2023 (BEIJING) Climbing mountains can be an arduous task, leaving climbers exhausted and in need of a break. However, in the Pingjiang region of Hunan province, China, a unique convenience store serves as a rest stop for weary climbers.
Situated 120 meters above the ground on a mountainside in the Shiniuzhai scenic area, this unconventional convenience store provides a haven for passing climbers. Along with ordinary items at regular prices, climbers can avail themselves of free bottles of water during their visit.
The convenience store, as reported by China Daily, was established in 2017 and covers an area of two square meters. It officially opened its doors to visitors a year later. Climbers participating in the rock climbing program in the scenic area are often amateur climbers who may experience hunger and thirst during the approximately one and a half hour journey. To cater to their needs, park authorities constructed the outlet to serve as a refreshment center.
Every day, the store’s employees transport drinks and food up the mountain, enduring the challenging task of delivering supplies to such an extraordinary location. Despite the logistical difficulties, Song Huizhou, the general manager of Shiniuzhai, assures customers that the prices of items in the store remain comparable to those in ordinary stores.
Since its opening, the store has gained significant attention on social media platforms, according to China Daily. While some people humorously refer to it as the “least convenient convenience store,” others find it adorable. There are also individuals who express their desire to work at such a unique establishment, considering it “very cool.” The online buzz surrounding the store has attracted tourists to the area, although the number of visitors is still lower than pre-pandemic levels. Song is optimistic about the situation improving and expects an increase in visitors.
The store operates from 8 am to 5 pm, with one cashier available to assist customers during peak hours. Alternatively, climbers can conveniently make their purchases by scanning a QR code. Additionally, every visitor to the store is entitled to one free bottle of water. Safety is of utmost importance, and the store’s employees conduct regular maintenance and inspections to ensure the reinforced structure remains secure.
Hui Ping, a recent customer from Pingjiang, visited the store with a friend during the Mid-Autumn Festival on September 29. The outlet provided them with a complimentary gift bag containing water, other beverages, and even mooncakes. As an amateur climber herself, Hui appreciated the convenience of the mountainside store. She acknowledged that carrying extra weight during the climb could be burdensome and that exhaustion and thirst can quickly set in. Hui found the store to be a cool and unique addition to the climbing experience, and she plans to recommend it to her friends, emphasizing the challenge and sense of accomplishment it brings.
