Should you be on Xiaohongshu at all?
Dragon Trail reported in 2024 that 80% of travellers used Xiaohongshu to look for tips before trips. Even if you never post, visitors probably post about places like yours. Use this quick test before committing time:
| If this is true… | …then |
|---|---|
| Chinese-speaking visitors already come in regularly | An account helps them find and share you; worth trying |
| Searching your area on Xiaohongshu shows posts about similar businesses | There is an audience; study what gets saved |
| You cannot accept their payment method or explain your menu yet | Fix that first. See the order of fixes |
| Nobody can write or check short Chinese captions | Start by monitoring and replying, not by posting |
Personal account vs verified business account
According to Dragon Trail’s 2024 guide, anyone can register a personal account from overseas with a foreign phone number: choose your country or region, enter the number and the verification code. A verified business account (called Business Pro in that guide) involved a manual verification, uploading a business licence and other documents, and a certification fee of RMB 600, with verification taking up to a month. It unlocks business features such as media buying and shops.
For most small businesses abroad, starting with a well-kept ordinary account is enough to test whether posts lead to visits. Check the current requirements in the app before paying for verification.
Posts that travellers actually save
People use Xiaohongshu like a notebook for their trip. Useful posts answer a planning question in the first image.
- “What to order” posts. Three or four dishes or products with names in Chinese and prices in local currency.
- “How to get here” posts. The entrance photo, the nearest station or landmark, and opening hours.
- Seasonal posts. Holiday hours or a seasonal menu, published a few weeks before Chinese holidays. See the calendar.
- Practical facts. Payment methods, whether booking is needed, whether there is a Chinese menu.
📍【城市】·【店名】 必点3样：①【菜名】【价格】 ②【菜名】【价格】 ③【菜名】【价格】
营业：【时间】｜可用支付宝、微信支付｜有中文菜单
（English: Must-try three at [shop], prices, hours, Alipay and WeChat Pay accepted, Chinese menu available.)
Mistakes to avoid
Buying likes, followers or reviews
Platforms look for fake engagement, and Chinese-speaking customers read comments closely. Fake activity can cost you more than it brings.
Posting only adverts
Posts that look like advertisements tend to be skipped. Lead with useful information and real photos.
Ignoring comments
Questions under posts are often from people deciding whether to visit. Reply in Chinese using the reply templates.
Common questions
Is Xiaohongshu the same as RedNote?
Yes. RedNote and “Little Red Book” are English names for the same app, 小红书.
Can I pay to promote posts from abroad?
Advertising features are tied to verified business accounts. Check the current requirements and costs in the app before planning a budget.
How often should I post?
Consistency matters more than volume. One useful post a week, plus prompt replies to comments, is a realistic start for a small team.
Sources
- How to Register for a Xiaohongshu Account from Overseas (22 July 2024)Dragon Trail International · checked 2026-10-15
- Chinese Traveler Sentiment Report: September 2025Dragon Trail International · checked 2026-10-15
Still check yourself: Current registration and verification requirements inside the app. The steps and fee below come from a 2024 guide and may have changed.