The Best Guide for TikTok Refugees: What is Xiaohongshu and How to Use it?

Introduction

As TikTok faces risks of being banned in the US, many Americans flooded into the Chinese app Xiaohongshu (RedNote) as a replacement. But for many new users, Xiaohongshu is very different from TikTok in terms of user interface, content variety, language support and so on. Here is a comprehensive guide for TikTok refugees to learn about what Xiaohongshu is? what is the difference between TikTok and Xiaohongshu? and how to use Xiaohongshu?

On 14 Jan 2025, Xiaohongshu ranks the top-downloaded social networking app on Apple’s U.S. App Store. Image: Apple's US App Store

What is Xiaohongshu(RedNote)?

Xiaohongshu, also known as RedNote or Little Red Book, is a Chinese social media platform that blends user-generated content with e-commerce. In many ways, it is like the combination of Instagram, TikTok, Reddit and Amazon: You can scroll through pictures and videos like in Instagram and TikTok. Besides, you can also post questions and receive answers like in Reddit. Beyond that, it allows you to exchange product recommendations and buy products directly like in Amazon.

Launched in 2013, Xiaohongshu initially started as a platform for sharing oversea shopping tips and later became widely used by urban Chinese women, especially Millennials and Gen-Z. Nowadays it has a strong focus on lifestyle content, community discussions, product recommendations, and online shopping. In an interview, its founders explained the meaning of the brand name Xiaohongshu ("小红书," "little red book" in literal translation): "The word 'shu' (book) represents a medium that connects a known world to an unknown one." As for "hong" (red), they use it because the founder Mao Wenchao views his time at Bain & Company and Stanford Business School as "two major milestones" in his life, and their primary colour theme is red.

What is the Difference between TikTok and Xiaohongshu?

The most prominent difference between TikTok and Xiaohongshu is their primary focuses: TikTok focuses on short-form videos while Xiaohongshu focuses on lifestyle content in different forms (posts, images, videos...). Let's have a clearer view about the differences from the chart below.

In a word, you can not only watch short-form videos in Xiaohongshu, but also reach various posts in the form of photos and texts. However, the problem lies in its inadequate language support. It takes you some time to get familiar with its user interface and functions. But don't worry, next we will explain to you how to use Xiaohongshu specificly so that you can get started with it quickly.

How to Use Xiaohongshu?

Step1: Download the App

• Search for Xiaohongshu on Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
• Click the "install" or "download" button.

Step2: Create Your Account

The registration process is straightforward and quick, allowing you to dive into the vibrant world of Xiaohongshu without delay.

• Open the app and sign up using your email or phone number, or Wechat account if you have one.
• Provide some basic details, including your gender, age and so on.
• Pick interests so that the app can customize personalized content for you.
• You can change your avatar and complete your profile at the "Me" page.

Step3: Explore the User-interface

The homepage displays a mix of photos, videos, and text posts known as "notes." These contents cover everything from the latest skincare routines to travel itineraries and fashion hauls.

• Spend some time scrolling through the feed and the platform will recommend more contents that suit your taste.
• Click on the posts for details if you are interested.
• Scroll down to the top of the page if you want to update contents.

If you want to watch short-form videos like in TikTok, then switch to the "Trending" page and you can watch them by swiping up and down.

Xiaohongshu’s algorithm curates content based on your interests and interactions, making it easy to discover new trends and ideas that resonate with you.

Step4: Interact with Content

You can interact with the contents by liking, commenting, saving them to your Collects, and sharing them to others. By doing so, Xiaohongshu will reccommend you more contents to your taste.

• Click the "heart" button to express your "likes."
• Save the post to your Collects by clicking the "star" button.
• Leave comments and join discussions under the post if you want.
• Share your favourite posts with your family or friends.
• You can also follow users to see their content on your feed and keep up with their latest updates.

Step5: Search for More

As Xiaohongshu focuses on lifestyle topics, the ecosystem has been making it a good search engine with the reputation of "National Lifestyle Guide" in China. You can use it to explore everything you want to know, such as travelling tips, food reccommendations, and so on.

• Click the search bar at the top of the homepage.
• Enter specific topics, hashtags, or user names you want to know more about.

Step6: Post Your Content

At Xiaohongshu, you can share your own experiences as well.

• Tap the "+" button at the bottom to create your own post.
• You can upload photos and videos, add descriptive texts, and utilize editing tools to enhance your content.

Step7: Explore other Functions

Xiaohongshu also provides you with many other functions and services. All you need to do is to explore, explore and explore.

Message

Xiaohongshu allows you to chat with your friends and join group discussions. You can switch to "Message" page and start chatting.

Live Streaming

Xiaohongshu also enables you to watch lives or go live by yourself. You can have real-time interaction and deeper engagement with other users. To start a live show, click the "+" button and then the "Go live" one.

Shopping and E-commerce

One of Xiaohongshu’s standout features is its seamless integration of e-commerce. You can explore products, read reviews and reccommendations, and make purchases directly through the app. The app frequently features exclusive deals and discounts, making it a shopping paradise for savvy consumers.

Tips for New Users

• Learn Basic Mandarin: While Xiaohongshu is starting to improve its English support, knowing some Mandarin will help you navigate the app more easily.
• Follow Influencers: Look for popular influencers who post content in English or have bilingual posts.
• Be Patient: It might take some time to get used to the new interface and content style, but you'll soon find your favorite creators and topics.

FAQs

Can I use a non-Chinese phone number to register a Xiaohongshu account?

Yes, you can. You can log in using multiple options such as QQ, Weibo, Apple ID, or your phone number. It's recommended to register with your phone number for ease of access. Choose your country or region and enter your phone number. Xiaohongshu will send you a verification code via SMS. Enter the code to proceed.

Are there any privacy concerns with RedNote?

As with any social media platform, there are privacy concerns. If you are really worried about your data, you can review RedNote's privacy policies and change your privacy settings in the app.

What is the community's response to TikTok refugees?

Chinese users on RedNote have been welcoming TikTok refugees, often engaging in cultural exchanges and helping them adapt to the new platform.

How can I transfer my TikTok content to RedNote?

You can download your TikTok videos and re-upload them to RedNote. You can also use third-party apps to automate this process.

Final Words

Xiaohongshu can not only serve as a good replacement for TikTok short-form videos, but also bring you more experiences with its high-quality posts.

I hope this guide will help you make a smooth transition from TikTok to Xiaohongshu! If you have any more questions or need further assistance, feel free to ask.