On Qixi Festival, Liu Qiangdong, who had been absent from public view for some time, appeared in his hometown of Suqian. Dressed formally in a white shirt, suit pants, and leather shoes, Liu Qiangdong drew crowds wherever he went, smiling and waving to greet everyone. Back in his hometown, he appeared relaxed and at ease.

This homecoming trip was work-related for Liu Qiangdong. Based on photos taken by netizens, Liu Qiangdong visited JD.com discount stores that were about to open. Four JD.com discount stores opened simultaneously in Suqian that day, and Liu Qiangdong likely participated in the opening ceremonies. Additionally, he visited several other JD.com offline retail locations.

Notably, a local football match between Suqian and Huai'an was scheduled for that day, and Liu Qiangdong might have attended to cheer for his hometown team. During the 2025 Summer Davos Forum, Liu Qiangdong had previously stated about Suqian matches: "Go? Absolutely must go!"

After a busy day, Liu Qiangdong didn't rest early. Instead, at 1 AM, he went to Suqian's night market to enjoy street food. Compared to his daytime work demeanor, he was much more relaxed, taking photos with many hometown folks. Crowds surrounded Liu Qiangdong, raising toasts to him. Liu Qiangdong put his arms around locals' shoulders and drank together, even drinking from plastic basins, showing none of the airs of a billionaire business leader.

At the night market streets, roadside stalls, plastic takeout containers, and casual gatherings with drinks - it was truly down-to-earth. Among billionaire business leaders, Liu Qiangdong is probably the most approachable. Just imagine encountering Jack Ma or Lei Jun on the street and suggesting having a drink together - what would happen then...