Cosplay craze

That said, zhaiwu isn't just for women.

Two male dancers, including Mao, attracted attention at the Zhejiang university competition.

Many Chinese fans also love videos by Australian singer and actor Richard Magarey, who is known by the stage name Ladybeard. The tall, muscular man, who performs in drag, says he started dressing like a girl at age 14 and became obsessed with otaku when he visited Japan in 2011.

Mao says Magarey's performances showed new perspectives and possibilities.

He says more men are participating in the predominantly female trend.

"I think people should follow their hearts and keep dancing," he says.

"I would be happier if more people … embrace the culture and join the community. Gender doesn't matter. Just have fun."

Pipi-pingping is optimistic about the trend's future in China and is working to advance it.

The vlogger is selective about the videos she uploads.

She spent three months to produce each video of one dance and interesting outtakes. Her clips are usually between seven and 10 minutes in length.

The performer gives little heed to those who believe zhaiwu is lowbrow.

"Everything is a mix of good and bad," she says. "I just do my best to produce quality dance pieces."

She also hopes to make it her livelihood.

"I'll need luck to turn my hobby into an income source," she says.

"But there's no chance if I don't try. So, I will."