China ‘cloudscape observer’ mist-monitoring job ends; resort plans more similar campaigns

AdvertisementTrending in ChinaPeople & CultureEnvironmentChina ‘cloudscape observer’ mist-monitoring job ends; resort plans more similar campaignsClassified as a 5A-level tourist attraction, Laojun Mountain remains off-limits to foreigners due to its proximity to a military base 2-MIN READ2-MINFran Luin BeijingPublished: 9:28am, 19 Aug 2026A Chinese tourist site recently concluded a month-long position that paid 60,000 yuan (US$8,900) to live on a mountaintop, observe the cloudscape, and share daily videos of the sea of clouds. On July 8, the Laojun Mountain Scenic Area in central China’s Henan province posted a recruitment ad for a “cloudscape observer” to work from July 16 to August 15. The Laojun Mountain Scenic Area is one of China’s most renowned sacred Taoist mountains, boasting over 2,000 years of history. It is believed that Taoism’s founding philosopher, Lao Tzu, inhabited the mountain during the 6th century BC to cultivate his philosophical thoughts. This site is also famous for its mist-shrouded vistas, formed by thick layers of low-lying mist that rise from the mountains, enhancing its sacred allure. Renowned for over 2,000 years, Laojun Mountain is one of China’s sacred Taoist peaks, celebrated for its mist-covered vistas that enhance its spiritual charm. Photo: ShutterstockMoreover, Laojun Mountain is a 5A-level tourist attraction, though it remains closed to foreigners due to its proximity to a military base. AdvertisementSelect VoiceSelect Speed0.8x0.9x1.0x1.1x1.2x1.5x1.75x00:0000:001.00x