Girl's 700km hike home a lesson in adversity

For most the summer holidays conjure up images of relaxed sunny days or playing in the park.

But for eight-year-old Zeng Ziqi the end of school marked the beginning of a grueling 700 kilometer trek in sweltering conditions.

Zeng started the long journey with her mother Liu Xiaoyan from Shenzhen to her hometown of Shaoyang in Hunan province for the the summer vacation on July 13.

Zeng Ziqi and her father on the way to their hometown, in Hunan province, August 4, 2013. [Photo/gmw.cn]

Zeng's mother, who initially thought her daughter would give up, but was surprised by her determination.

With the heat at record temperatures, the mother quit on July 25 and the girl's father – who came up with the idea to teach his daughter how to deal with adversity in life – accompanied her on the rest of the journey.

As of Aug 5, the girl, who would start walking at 5 am and rested after noon to avoid the scorching heat, was just under 50 km from home. At night they take refuge in farmhouses.

Her father, who was blogging the hike, wrote:"Never be afraid of the far distance. The further you go, the more scenery you will enjoy. More steps, more happiness. I feel happy for what my daughter has done and I will embrace the challenge. "

Xiong Bingqi, vice-president of the 21st Century Education Research Institute, said although the journey will become an unforgettable memory in the girl's life, this type of education is not suitable for every child

"The best choice is the one that is most suitable for the child, " he said.

A sentiment echoed online where many questioned the father or offer mixed reactions. The father defended, saying he takes full care of her daughter on the way.