China Elevator Stories
by Ruth Silbermayr
voices
“These conversations are sometimes funny, sometimes sad, but always well-written and indicative of what living in China is truly like. This is social and cultural commentary in its purest form.”
China City Links
“Here’s a blogger whose point of view differs from other bloggers, because she doesn’t just limit herself to words. Ruth’s China is as a colorful mosaic of illustrations, drawings, pictures and words; a joyful voyage combining art, technology and the one-of-a-kind approach of a very talented young lady, who made China her home. China Elevator Stories is one of the most unique blogs about China.”
Chinese Tools
China
Travel
Whether trekking through Yunnan’s highlands or crossing the wide plains of the Northeast, discovering China offers a journey that’s as seamless as it is unforgettable.
Signs of Unclean Produce in Chinese Markets
Some markets in China do not sell clean produce.
Winter, Christmas, and the Threat of War
This year is quite unlike previous years because of the threat of war in Europe.
Outdoor Fridges in Northeast China
In the fall, people in Northeast China use the outdoors as a fridge.
Siping’s Messy Reality
Some cities in China have become remarkably clean, whereas others remain quite dirty.
When a Man Pushes His Sexuality Onto You
Certain men are violating boundaries by pushing their sexuality onto you.
Erotomania: The Mental Illness Behind Many Stalkers
It is extremely challenging to handle a stalker because of the delusions they believe about you.
Behind the Modern Facade: The Reality of Life in Siping
I have lived in four cities in China, and Siping was my least favorite.
Harbin: A Former Russian Settlement in China's Northeast (China Travel)
Harbin was founded by Russian settlers in 1898.
Dandong, Liaoning Province: China’s Border City with North Korea (China Travel)
I visited Dandong, which is located on the Chinese–North Korean border in Northeast China, in September 2025.
“what are you harvesting?”
I come across a woman working in the rice paddies at Dragon’s Backbone Rice Terraces.
Knocked Up Abroad Again: Baby bumps, twists, and turns around the globe (anthology by Lisa ferland)
Twenty-five women experience both love and heartbreak as they bring their babies into this crazy beautiful world.
Imagine receiving a kit in the mail with everything you’ll need for your Dutch midwife to safely deliver your baby at home. Imagine overhearing the nurses in China talking bluntly about your medical status because they don’t think you understand Chinese. Imagine giving birth to your three children in three different countries, each with unique approaches, superstitions, and medical practices.
My story is featured in chapter 10: You should have a baby boy (by Ruth Silbermayr-Song)