Eye on Digital China Newsletter Explores Hangzhou Dog-Walking Ban, Vanishing Living Rooms, and Laundry Debate

The Eye on Digital China newsletter, released on September 27, 2026, delves into the gradual cultural transformations within Chinese society. It emphasizes the stringent regulations in Hangzhou regarding dog ownership, prohibiting dog-walking in major urban areas during the day and permitting only small breeds to be walked from 7 PM to 7 AM. Some online users express hopes that these regulations may influence similar policies across the nation. The edition also touches on the fading presence of traditional Chinese living rooms, the ongoing discussion about the worth of 20 yuan (US$2.99), and the contentious topic of washing socks and underwear together. Furthermore, it outlines four travel trends observed during this year’s National Day holiday and notes that 70% of Chinese households possess savings below 100,000 yuan (approximately US$14,900), with median savings at 87,000 yuan (US$13,000) and only 6% holding 300,000 yuan (US$44,800) or more. Authored by Manya Koetse, a sinologist and creator of What's on Weibo, the newsletter provides independent insights into China's online culture and is supported by its readership.