In today’s world, dependence on mobile phones has grown so much that they are almost like an extension of ourselves. Not only are we connected, but we also have instant access to information—without them, we feel lost. It’s hard to imagine getting through a day without picking up the phone countless times. In a world where smartphones have become indispensable, Yang Hao, a doctoral student from China, embarked on an extraordinary journey across his country, spending 134 days without a mobile phone. Yang, who left his hometown of Taiyuan in Shanxi province in November, traveled through 24 provinces and regions for six months, documenting his adventure with two internet-free cameras rather than relying on modern technology.

Yang’s decision to embark on this journey stemmed from a desire to explore life without the constant presence of digital connectivity. “I feel that the mobile phone is like a digital organ for us. Without it, we can’t do many things. So I wanted to find out what happens when we have no internet access at all. What is it like for, say, several months?” he explained.

The South China Morning Post reported that Yang’s technology-free adventure was not without its challenges. Simple tasks like booking hotels or hailing a taxi became major obstacles. In a country where mobile payments have become ubiquitous, Yang found himself searching for ATMs to withdraw cash as many stores did not accept cards. Despite these difficulties, Yang adapted by talking to fellow travelers and locals and finding creative solutions for his trip.

“Almost everyone who heard that I didn’t use a cell phone was shocked. Some asked if I was doing something bad, others wondered if I had a special purpose, and still others found it interesting to live without a cell phone,” Yang said.

Despite all these challenges, Yang discovered unexpected benefits. Freed from the constant barrage of notifications and social media, he found more time for reading, writing, and personal reflection. His journey, which ended with his return home in April, provided him with a wealth of new experiences and insights.

“I’m like an old man who has traveled through time to the present day. All these worries and joys excited me. It was a great life experience,” Yang reflected.

Yang’s digital detox is in line with his academic research, which focuses on the impact of digitalization on human life. He now plans to compile the articles he wrote during his trip into a book, and is also working on a documentary film based on the footage he shot during his travels.