By TARYN KAUR PEDLER, FOREIGN NEWS REPORTER

Published: 14:23 GMT, 29 December 2025 | Updated: 14:57 GMT, 29 December 2025

A tourist who was busy staring at his phone was knocked off a mountain path by a pack mule that came up behind him on a trail.

The incident took place during a climb to the Caishen Temple on Beigao Peak in Hangzhou, China, on December 26.

Footage of the moment shows the man standing on the edge of a narrow stone stairway while glued to his phone as other visitors move around him along the path.

Meanwhile, a mule carrying loaded bags and being led uphill by an elderly handler approaches the distracted tourist from behind.

Although the mule makes no direct contact with the man, its cargo bags strike him, causing him to lose his balance.

The man is seen slipping before tumbling down the steep slope beside the path.

Several visitors rushed to help him, and the emergency services were called.

The injured tourist was rushed to the hospital for treatment, although his condition has not yet been disclosed.

A tourist who was busy staring at his phone was knocked off a mountain path by a pack mule that came up behind him on a trail

The man is seen slipping before tumbling down the steep slope beside the path

The incident took place during a climb to the Caishen Temple on Beigao Peak in Hangzhou, China, on December 26

Several visitors rushed to help him, and the emergency services were called

The section of Beigao Peak leading to the temple includes narrow and steep paths where pack animals regularly transport goods.

Local authorities said patrols are carried out twice a day by police officers, volunteers, and security staff to check safety signage and emergency equipment. 

The footage triggered widespread debate online over both visitor safety management and the risks of using mobile phones while walking on hazardous mountain routes.