Han Suzhen, a 74-year-old shop owner in downtown Nanjing, rose to national fame in May 2024 after a tourist's video of her making hand-brewed instant coffee went viral online [1]. Her small 10-square-meter shop, Granny Han’s Sugarcane Juice, quickly became a hotspot with crowds queueing more than 50 meters outside to buy coffee priced at 10 yuan (about $1.50) per cup [1].
At the peak of her sudden fame, Han said she sold around 1,000 cups a day, attracting visitors from different parts of China including Chongqing, Inner Mongolia, and Xinjiang, as well as some overseas celebrities and influencers [1]. Photographs of Han with film and television stars, red-carpet events, and a red velvet banner from Nescafé remain displayed in her shop [1].
However, the business boom was short lived. Sales eventually dropped sharply to about 100 cups a day at best, and at times only two or three cups daily [1]. Han also faced online rumors and accusations questioning her character and the authenticity of her coffee-making technique [1].
Reflecting on the experience, Han said, "When you’re trending, you earn more money — and when you’re not, life is more comfortable. Good health is the most important thing" [1]. Despite fluctuating business, she has maintained a steady presence in the local coffee scene.
Her story illustrates the sudden spikes and falls that viral internet fame can bring to small businesses in China. Han’s shop continues to operate in downtown Nanjing where loyal customers still visit. There are no reports of major new promotions or events planned for the near future [1].