In cities like Chengdu and Hangzhou, a surprising trend is emerging among young people facing unemployment: they’re paying to simulate the 9-to-5 office life. For as little as $4 a day, individuals can rent a desk in a “pretend office,” complete with Wi-Fi, complimentary snacks, and even staged interactions with faux supervisors, according to Radii.
These unconventional “workspaces,” which have recently gained traction on platforms like Xiaohongshu and Douyin, aren’t just internet gimmicks. For many, they offer a much-needed sense of purpose and normalcy amid a turbulent job market.
With youth unemployment reaching around 16.9% earlier this year, some are turning to these spaces as a way to structure their days, avoid stigma from family, and maintain routine while job hunting.
At first glance, the idea of paying to pretend to work might seem absurd, especially in a culture that idealizes productivity. But for participants, the benefits are tangible: a place to focus, escape social pressure, and rebuild confidence.
Some use the time to refine resumes or explore new skills. Others simply enjoy the familiar rhythm of an office environment without the stress of actual employment.
This phenomenon speaks to deeper social and economic dynamics. In a society where job status is closely tied to identity, these “fake offices” offer an alternative path for those caught between layoffs, changing industries, and intense societal expectations.
Rather than mocking the trend, many are recognizing it as a creative response to structural challenges. By reclaiming routine — even artificially — young people are finding new ways to cope, stay motivated, and connect with others during a difficult period.
