In the early 20th century, earpicking moved into the Western-style barbershops of port cities like Shanghai and Tianjin, where it was just one of many services provided as extras to the simple cut and oil. Today's earpickers are a far cry from those dignified specialists, however. Most are unemployed factory workers or peasants. They will tell you they are trained and licensed, but Xiong says it's not true. China's nouveau riche don't seem to mind.
Travellers can decide for themselves whether to take the risk.
But in a country still struggling to revive local customs repressed by a half-century of communism, the earpickers are a welcome discovery. Review Publishing Company Limited, Hong Kong. All rights reserved. Search Tips Prev.