A devoted Chinese father travelled 900 kilometres to his daughter’s university to open a small food stall, after learning she missed the taste of home-cooked meals.
A Father’s Journey of Love
According to foreign media reports, the heartwarming story from northeastern China has captured widespread attention online. The man’s daughter, Li Bingdi, is a second-year student at Jilin Normal University in Siping, Jilin Province. For a year, she had complained that the food served in the university canteen lacked quality and the familiar flavour of home.
Moved by her words, the father quit his job at a barbecue restaurant in Tianjin, a southern city, and journeyed across China. Before leaving, he spent time learning to prepare dishes like fried rice and noodles, hoping to serve his daughter’s favourite meals.
Humble Beginnings and Growing Support
He opened his food stall in mid-October, just outside the university gate. On the first day, he sold only seven plates of rice, earning a modest profit. Meanwhile, Li earned 70 yuan that day as a private tutor—more than her father’s earnings.
Touched by his devotion, Li shared his story on her university’s social media platform. She described his cleanliness, dedication, and openness to advice. The post quickly went viral, inspiring sympathy and admiration across campus. Soon, long queues formed at the stall as students, teachers, and residents lined up to buy food.
Warmth Amid the Winter Chill
Li said customers often placed extra orders to show support. Many praised her father’s kindness and hard work in the comments. As sales improved, Li began helping her father at the stall during her free time.
She recalled how her father once said he felt cold working outdoors, but now the supportive atmosphere made him feel warm despite the winter chill.
A Bond Forged Through Loss
After losing her mother to leukaemia, Li and her father became each other’s greatest strength. When she hesitated about studying in another city, he promised to follow her wherever she went.
“He kept his promise,” Li said emotionally. “Many call a father’s love great and steadfast, but to me, my father’s love feels as warm as the sun.”
