A Life on the Road
For Scott, a 39-year-old Canadian now living in Cixi (慈溪), China, the journey across China was more than just a physical adventure—it was the culmination of a long-held dream. Known as "Old Shen (老沈)" to his Chinese friends, Scott's life has taken him from international logistics to teaching, all the while deepening his connection to the culture and people of China.
"When people think of me, they might label me as 'the foreigner,' 'funny,' or 'a big guy,'" Scott says with a grin. "But if I could label myself, I'd rather write 'foreigner in China,' 'China expert,' and 'traveler in China.'" Sixteen years ago, Scott had little knowledge of China before stepping onto its soil. But since arriving, he has lived in cities like Shanghai, Beijing, Haikou (海口), Wuhan, and Guiyang (贵阳), fully immersing himself in the fabric of Chinese life. Over time, Scott has become an enthusiastic explorer, using every opportunity to experience China's diverse landscapes.
In the summer of 2023, with a long two-month break from teaching, Scott embarked on a motorcycle trip that would take him across multiple provinces, covering over 20,000 kilometers. This journey was not just a test of endurance—it was Scott's way of reconnecting with the land he had grown to love.
Sights, Sounds, and the Flavors of China
Scott's 51-day motorcycle journey was anything but ordinary. From the coastal landscapes of Zhejiang to the expansive mountains of Guizhou, Scott experienced China in the most immersive way possible—through all five senses. "I've seen the endless mountains in Guizhou, heard the chirping of birds in Yunnan, and smelled the fresh grass and flowers of Aba (阿坝) in Sichuan," Scott shares.
More than just the sights and sounds, it was China's diverse cuisine that truly captivated Scott. "Chinese food is something that has influenced my entire journey," he laughs, pointing to his noticeably larger belly, a product of his years of indulgence in local delicacies. "I'll mark places on my map just for a special dish. It's food that really guides me forward."
Scott's love for food has been a constant companion on his journey. Whether it's the savory taste of yak butter tea in Qinghai or the freshness of Uyghur (维吾尔族) cuisine in Xinjiang, every bite adds to the richness of his experience. "I've gained a few pounds over the years, but every kilo has brought me happiness," he says, recalling his first days in China when he was a fit, well-dressed young man.
His trip wasn't just about food, though. Scott bathed in the clear rivers of Hami (哈密) in Xinjiang, soaking in the peace and serenity of nature. He felt the roughness of mountain paths beneath his feet and the crispness of early morning air in remote villages. For Scott, this motorcycle journey was about embracing China with all five senses—an adventure that few outsiders experience at such depth.
Why Ride Across China?
So why did Scott, a foreigner living in China, undertake such a grueling and long-distance motorcycle journey? "I'm not a businessman. I'm just a regular teacher with limited time and energy," Scott explains. "I wanted to experience as much of China as possible with my own eyes, ears, and body."
Each day of Scott's journey was a new challenge. He began by riding 663 kilometers from Shengzhou (嵊州) in Zhejiang to Gutian (古田) in Fujian on his first day, followed by 588 kilometers the next. For Scott, this "iron butt" challenge was not just about endurance but about seeing China from the unique perspective of a motorcyclist. "Traveling like a monk," as Scott calls it, allowed him to connect with the land and its people in ways that traditional tourism never could.
He encountered diverse landscapes, each with its own story. In the mountains of Guizhou, Scott was mesmerized by the towering peaks and lush greenery. In Sichuan, the scent of wildflowers filled the air as he rode through remote valleys. And in every province, he connected with locals who welcomed him with curiosity and warmth.
His journey became not only a personal challenge but also a deep dive into the heart of China's culture and geography. Each stop introduced Scott to new experiences and people, from remote villages in Gansu to bustling markets in Guangdong. Along the way, he made countless friends and documented his travels through videos, which have since garnered over 200,000 followers on social media.
While Scott's adventure was filled with beautiful scenery and delicious food, it was also physically demanding. Spending hours on the road each day, dealing with the unpredictable elements, and navigating unfamiliar terrain were all part of the challenge. Yet, for Scott, these challenges were worth it. "Every day was different, and every day I felt more connected to this country."
Scott's motorcycle journey across China is more than just a tale of adventure—it's a testament to the deep bond he's formed with his adopted home. As a foreigner, he came to China with few expectations, but over the years, he's grown to love the country's rich culture, warm people, and, of course, its incredible food.
"I've lived in many cities, and I've seen so much of China's beauty, but there's still so much more to explore," Scott reflects. His journey has taken him through winding mountain roads, serene rivers, and vibrant cities, each stop offering a new layer to his understanding of China.
In the end, Scott's journey is a reminder that travel is about more than just seeing new places—it's about forming connections, both with the land and the people. His experience shows that even as an outsider, it's possible to find a sense of belonging in a foreign land. "I may be a foreigner, but China feels like home," Scott says, with a smile that reflects both the joy and fulfillment of a journey well-traveled.
