In the fast-evolving world of blockchain and digital assets, timing, knowledge, and risk tolerance often determine who becomes a success story—and who walks away with lifelong regrets. One such tale, rooted in a simple 2011 question on Zhihu, has become legendary in China’s crypto community: a college student with 6,000 RMB was advised to buy Bitcoin—and missed the chance to become a millionaire many times over.
This story isn’t just about luck or missed opportunities. It’s about understanding the transformative power of emerging technologies, the psychology of investment, and how platforms like Trip.org are now building real-world utility into token economies.
The Zhihu Post That Could Have Made Millions
In December 2011, a university student known online as "Xiaozhu" (Little Bamboo) asked a now-famous question on Zhihu:
“As a junior with 6,000 RMB, what’s a good investment advice?”
Among the responses was one from Chang Jia—sci-fi writer, founder of the early Chinese blockchain community 8btc (Babit)—who replied:
“Buy Bitcoin. Save your wallet file. Forget you ever had 6,000 RMB. Check again in five years.”
Back then, Bitcoin was trading around $3. With 6,000 RMB (roughly $900 at the time), Xiaozhu could have bought over 800 BTC.
Fast forward to late 2017—Bitcoin peaked at nearly $20,000. That 800 BTC would have been worth over **$15 million**—more than 100 million RMB. Even today, at much lower valuations, that stash would still make her a multi-millionaire.
👉 Discover how early decisions shape financial futures in today’s digital economy.
But Xiaozhu didn’t buy.
She spent the money on a week-long trip to Hangzhou with friends—memories over millions.
“I wouldn’t have done it back then,” she admitted years later. “That’s just not who I was.”
Why She Didn’t Buy—and Why It Matters
Xiaozhu wasn’t reckless. She was cautious—typical of most young investors with no prior experience. In 2011, Bitcoin was obscure. Few understood blockchain. The idea of digital money felt like science fiction.
Meanwhile, Chang Jia took his own advice. He invested his savings into Bitcoin and later founded one of China’s most influential crypto communities.
By 2013, Bitcoin surged past $1,000—briefly surpassing the price of gold. Media called it “the year of Bitcoin.” Yet for Xiaozhu, it remained background noise.
“If I were transported back with today’s knowledge? I’d buy,” she said. “But as my younger self? I’d make the same choice.”
This highlights a core truth in investing: knowledge and risk appetite evolve with experience.
Broader Insights from Industry Leaders
While Xiaozhu’s story is personal, it echoes larger trends confirmed by experts worldwide:
Marc Andreessen: “Bitcoin Will Thrive”
The co-founder of a16z believes Bitcoin isn’t just surviving—it’s thriving. Despite countless predictions of its demise, the decentralized network persists and grows stronger.
Eugene Ng, Circuit Capital
Even during market downturns, cryptocurrency usage continues rising. More talent is entering the space, and infrastructure is maturing.
Economist George Gilder
He predicts blockchain will replace the Google-era data paradigm. In his view, encrypted, trustless systems will redefine the internet and global economy.
Professor He Xueshui, Fudan University
Tokenized economies create powerful incentive structures. With proper design, they enable self-sustaining business models through decentralized governance.
Hurun Report
Blockchain is one of the youngest sectors on the billionaires’ list—with companies averaging just five years in operation. The Hurun Report forecasts over 100 blockchain entrepreneurs could join the ranks within three years.
From Bitcoin to Utility Tokens: The Rise of TRIP
While early Bitcoin adopters reaped life-changing rewards, today’s opportunities lie in utility-driven tokens—digital assets with real-world use cases.
Enter TRIP, the native token of Trip.org.
Unlike speculative coins with no underlying value, TRIP is earned by booking travel services—hotels, flights, train tickets—through the Trip.org app. Think of it as reward points that can appreciate in value.
Here’s how it works:
- Book a hotel? Earn TRIP tokens.
- Reserve a flight? Get paid in TRIP.
- Hold TRIP? Benefit from potential price growth.
Compare this to Q币 (Q Coins) or game points: fixed value, non-tradable, no upside. But TRIP is different—its value fluctuates based on demand and adoption.
- Launched at 3 RMB per token in May 2018
- Reached 13 RMB per token by November 2018
- Early adopters saw over 300% returns in six months
Had someone used 6,000 RMB to acquire TRIP at launch, their holdings would have grown to 26,000 RMB in half a year—without spending a single cent on travel.
Now imagine holding for six years.
👉 See how utility tokens are reshaping travel rewards and digital ownership.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Could Xiaozhu have really made over 100 million RMB?
Yes. At Bitcoin’s all-time high (~$19,000 in 2017), 800 BTC would have been worth approximately **136 million RMB** ($20 million). Even at current prices, it would still represent life-changing wealth.
Q: Is TRIP similar to Bitcoin?
No. Bitcoin is decentralized digital money. TRIP is a utility token tied to travel spending and rewards. It's designed for practical use with growth potential—not just speculation.
Q: Can I still buy TRIP tokens?
Yes, TRIP tokens are available on select exchanges. Users can also earn them via bookings on the Trip.org app—making it accessible without direct investment.
Q: Isn’t cryptocurrency too risky?
All investments carry risk. But utility tokens like TRIP reduce volatility by anchoring value to real services. As adoption grows, so does intrinsic value.
Q: How do I start learning about blockchain investing?
Begin with reputable sources, understand the technology, and start small. Focus on projects with clear use cases—like travel rewards, DeFi, or digital identity—not hype.
Q: Was Xiaozhu’s decision wrong?
Not necessarily. Everyone has different risk tolerance. Her choice reflects prudence—not ignorance. The lesson isn’t regret; it’s awareness.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Miss the Next Wave
Xiaozhu’s story isn’t about greed or failure. It’s a mirror reflecting how innovation moves faster than understanding.
Seven years ago, few believed in Bitcoin. Today, institutions invest billions. Tomorrow, utility tokens like TRIP may redefine loyalty programs and consumer rewards.
You don’t need to gamble your life savings. But you should stay informed.
Whether you have 6,000 RMB or more—the question isn’t “What if?” anymore.
It’s: “What will you do now?”
👉 Turn everyday spending into long-term value—explore the future of tokenized rewards.