Chinese man drives 900 km to propose, hangs banner asking fellow drivers to make way
South China Morning Post
by Zoey ZhangMarch 3, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
A man from Jiangxi province captured attention across China—and beyond—when he embarked on a 900-kilometer journey to propose marriage during peak New Year traffic. Tan, a 26-year-old businessman, displayed a red banner in his car window reading, “Brothers, let me go first. I am heading to Guizhou to propose to the love of my life.” His gesture aimed to navigate the notoriously congested highways while sharing his romantic mission with fellow drivers. Videos and posts of his journey went viral on social media, showcasing his lighthearted yet heartfelt approach to love.
Tan’s story began when his girlfriend returned to her hometown in Guizhou for Chinese New Year. The couple, who met in college and have been together for four years, planned this elaborate proposal as a way to ensure he reached her home safely amidst the holiday rush. Running his own business in Fujian, Tan explained that the banner was both a practical solution to traffic delays and a creative way to share his joy with others on the road. Along his journey, he stopped to wave at drivers, spreading smiles and congratulations as he traveled.
This unique proposal highlights not only romantic gestures but also reflects broader cultural values of love, family, and resilience in the face of challenges. Tan’s story resonates globally, offering a charming glimpse into how individuals adapt to life’s hurdles with creativity and warmth—even during one of China’s busiest travel periods. His approach to combining personal milestones with shared experiences underscores the power of connection, making his journey not just about love, but also about human kindness in everyday moments.
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Originally published on South China Morning Post on 3/3/2026