I’ve been helping family members on Xianyu (also known as “Little Yellow Fish”) in my spare time. It started as selling secondhand items to recoup costs, then evolved into selling digital goods like software and resources. By using a technical mindset to cut costs and improve efficiency at every step, I’ve been able to earn around 1k RMB per month. Here I’m sharing hard-won experience that’s hard to find online — a reference for anyone who wants to run a side hustle on Xianyu.
Note: Continuously updated. Xianyu is also commonly referred to as “小黄鱼” (Little Yellow Fish).
The Value of Xianyu
Many people around me underestimate Xianyu. Consumers think it’s low-end; sellers think so too. But let’s look at the data.
The Hidden Marketplace
If you can’t find something to buy in China, search Xianyu first. Turkish Apple Gift Cards, ScreenStudio discount codes, Claude/GPT membership accounts, discounted vouchers, food delivery coupons — all kinds of things are available on Xianyu that you can’t even find on Taobao anymore.
Use Xianyu well and you can both earn and save money. I sometimes buy game tokens on Xianyu before going to arcades — even cheaper than Meituan.
