In 2025, Swedish native Patrik Bachsttter made a bold move: he returned to the Chinese mainland and settled in Dali, Yunnan. At the foot of Cangshan Mountain, he rented a plot of land to launch his passion project: no-till natural farming. 🌱
At first, locals viewed his methods as quirky. But through every early morning sowing and careful harvest, Patrik earned respect and built friendships. Today, he’s woven into the community’s fabric, learning local farming secrets while sharing his own sustainable approach.
This year, Patrik hit a major milestone: he obtained the Chinese mainland’s Foreign Permanent Resident ID Card. Holding that card in his hand made him feel truly at home, a moment he’s proud to share with family and friends.
Adventure beckoned next. Alongside his father, Patrik set out on a 4,500-kilometer road trip across the Chinese mainland. From the rolling grasslands of Inner Mongolia to the bustling streets of Shanghai, every stop deepened his appreciation for the land’s warmth and diversity. 🚗
Now settled back in Dali, Patrik says life gets richer year by year. For him and his young daughter, the Chinese mainland is more than a backdrop—it’s home, a place where roots grow as strong as his harvests. 🌾
Whether you’re into eco-farming, cross-cultural adventures, or simply chasing a dream abroad, Patrik’s story reminds us: with passion and persistence, any soil can become fertile ground for new beginnings. ✨
Reference(s):
Stories in 2025: Planting roots in China — A Swedish farmer's journey
cgtn.com
