A unique “daydreaming competition” held in Danleng, Sichuan province, has gone viral in China after 46 participants competed to stay still for hours without talking, using phones, or laughing.
The inaugural event took place in Xingfu Ancient Village, where contestants were required to sit quietly from 1pm until sunset. Strict rules prohibited phone use, conversation, laughter, and even closing one’s eyes for more than 10 seconds at a time.
The tranquil setting of the ancient village, known for its stone walls, traditional tiled roofs and layered terraced fields, provided an atmosphere that matched the slow-paced theme of the contest.
In the end, a 24-year-old female postgraduate student, identified as Song Ming, emerged as the winner after maintaining complete stillness for six hours. She received a cash prize of 3,000 yuan (around RM1,900 / US$440).
Overcome with emotion, Song said she nearly gave up several times during the challenge but managed to persevere. She described the experience as unexpectedly difficult, noting that even simply sitting still required significant mental endurance.
Organisers said the event was not intended as a gimmick, but rather to encourage people to slow down in a fast-paced society. A company representative involved in the village’s development said that “doing nothing” is often seen as a luxury in modern life, and the competition aimed to normalise rest and mental pause.
The event was also livestreamed online, attracting amused reactions from viewers, with many commenting on the unusual concept of competing in stillness.
Other participants shared similar sentiments, saying they joined the event out of curiosity and to experience a moment of calm away from daily stress. While not everyone managed to finish, many said they still enjoyed the peaceful environment and planned to return to the village for a longer stay.
The event has since sparked discussion online about mental wellbeing, burnout and the growing appeal of “slow living” in modern society.
