Faces of WildChina: Qiujing Peng 彭秋婧

Meet Qiujing, originally from Guiyang, where dramatic landscapes and diverse cultures shaped her early life. After exploring different parts of China, she made Chengdu her home, drawn to its mix of lively street food scenes and tranquil parks. As a travel designer, Qiujing curates journeys that allow travelers to connect with the heart of each destination. When not planning journeys, she enjoys hiking scenic trails, finding fresh inspiration for the next adventure.

Where are you from and where do you live now?

I’m from Guiyang, the capital of Guizhou province, a place surrounded by mountains and home to many ethnic groups, like the Miao and Dong. Growing up there, I was surrounded by vibrant traditions and stunning landscapes. After spending some time in different parts of China, I now live in Chengdu — a city with a laid-back vibe, lively streets, and a food scene that’s hard to beat, especially when it comes to hotpot!

Was there a specific moment in your life when you realized travel is what you wanted to do for work?

I’ve always loved traveling, but it wasn’t until I became a travel designer that I truly understood the deeper value of this work. As a designer, I have the privilege of introducing my beautiful hometown and other parts of China to those eager to explore. It’s a chance to share not only the landscapes but also the stories and cultures that make these places extraordinary, helping others experience the richness of China in a meaningful way.

Through your career, was there one piece of advice you received that really impacted how you do your job? If so, what was it? 

“Put yourself in the traveler’s shoes.” This simple advice guides me when designing itineraries, making sure that each journey feels comfortable, exciting, and full of meaningful experiences. I always ask myself: What would I want from this trip? What would make it unforgettable? This mindset helps me fine-tune every detail and create something personal and special for every traveler.

What is the best travel experience you’ve had so far?

Last October, I went on a road trip to Mount Cuomei in Gansu Province, starting from Niji Ba Village. We drove through forests that seemed completely untouched. When we reached the foot of the mountain, we began hiking toward a hidden wind cave that the local herdsmen told us had been used as shelter during storms. At first, I couldn’t understand why anyone would bring livestock along such a rugged path. But after the long trek, when I finally reached the cave, I was blown away — beyond it, a vast meadow stretched out before me. 

We were searching for a place to camp when we met Sister Yang, a local villager, and her family. They kindly invited us to their home halfway up the mountain. She shared a story that has stayed with me ever since: “My father and his brothers built the road to the wind cave. It took them eight years to finish. Because he loved the mountains so much, the villagers built this house to thank him.” 

Before we left, Sister Yang, worried I might get cold at camp, handed me a bottle of homemade barley wine. That evening, as we sat around a bubbling hotpot under the starry sky, I reflected on the beauty of the place and the strong connection these people had to their land and each other. It was this human aspect, this bond, that truly touched me.

What is the most memorable trip you’ve planned for a traveler? 

One of the most memorable trips I’ve designed is an upcoming journey for an architect and his two sons — both architecture students. They want to explore iconic buildings, but what truly excites them is uncovering the human stories behind these structures. 

Datong is a key stop on their journey, with the Yungang Grottoes being a standout. There, they’ll meet fourth-generation stone carvers still using techniques passed down for 1,500 years. When designing this trip, I wanted to offer them more than just a look at modern landmarks. I wanted to show them both ancient and contemporary architecture, and how the people and craftsmanship behind these structures bring China’s history to life.

What’s the coolest WOW moment you’ve had happen on one of the trips you arranged?

One of the coolest WOW moments I’ve organized was a tea-frying experience at Dragon Well Tea Plantation in Hangzhou. Guests got to learn from local masters how to pan-fry fresh tea leaves. The process requires skill and precision, as the leaves are gently tossed and pressed to bring out their flavor. It gave the travelers a real, hands-on connection to China’s tea culture, allowing them to appreciate the meticulous art behind it.

If you had to pick one thing that makes a trip outstanding, what would it be? 

The WOW moment — the kind of experience that sticks with you long after the trip ends. It might be standing on a mountain, watching the sun set over an endless horizon, or sitting down with a local who shares a personal story that completely shifts your perspective. It’s those moments that make you say, “This is why I travel.”

Tell us three places on your travel bucket list and why: 

The island of Taiwan has always intrigued me, especially growing up watching its TV series and entertainment shows. They sparked my desire to experience its vibrant culture, delicious food, and stunning landscapes firsthand.

Then there’s Istanbul, where East and West converge in the most fascinating way. I’d love to explore everything from the awe-inspiring Hagia Sophia to the vibrant energy of the Grand Bazaar.

A safari in Kenya is also high on my list. Witnessing the Great Migration across the Maasai Mara or watching elephants roam freely through the savannah is a dream I’ve always had.

What do you do when you aren’t working?

I love spending time outdoors, whether it’s hiking or camping. I also cherish quiet moments to clear my mind and recharge. But when I need a change of pace, karaoke is my go-to for letting off some steam!

What’s a fun fact about you that most people don’t know?

I can knit! I’m still in the beginner phase — not quite making sweaters yet — but it’s such a cozy and relaxing hobby that keeps me busy during my downtime.