Meteor Garden Star Barbie Hsu a.k.a Shansai Dies at 48 While Traveling in Japan

Hey fellow travellers! I've got some really sad news to share today. Many of us grew up watching a certain Taiwanese drama, a phenomenon that swept across Asia and landed squarely in our hearts: Meteor Garden. And today, we’re mourning the loss of the actress who brought its spirited heroine, Shancai, to life: Barbie Hsu.

The Taiwanese actress passed away at the age of 48 due to pneumonia, reportedly after contracting influenza while on a Lunar New Year trip to Japan with her family. Her sister, Dee Hsu, confirmed the news through her agent, stating that Barbie had fallen ill during their travels and sadly passed away in Japan.

For those who might not know (though I suspect you do!), Meteor Garden was huge. Like, seriously huge. It was one of the first Asianovelas to hit the Philippines, and it sparked what we fondly remember as "Meteor Garden fever." Suddenly, everyone wanted F4 hairstyles, and we were all trying to learn the theme songs (some of us even tried to translate them!). It was a cultural moment, and Barbie Hsu was right at the centre of it all.

She played Shancai, a strong-willed, independent young woman who, against all odds, catches the attention of the F4, the elite, almost mythical boy group at her school. She wasn’t afraid to stand up for herself, and she had this incredible inner strength that resonated with so many of us, especially young girls. She was the underdog we all rooted for. And her chemistry with the F4 members? Electric!

Image credit: Philippine Fan Page (Barbie Hsu 徐熙媛 via Facebook)

Whether you were Team Dao Ming Si or Team Hua Ze Lei (I was always Team Hua Ze Lei, personally!), you were invested in Shancai’s journey. The news has hit Filipinos hard. Social media is flooded with messages of grief and remembrance. People are sharing their favourite Meteor Garden memories, calling her “Shancai” with such affection. It’s clear how much she meant to a generation.

“WE LOVE YOU, SHANCAI!” one Facebook page declared, and honestly, that sums up how a lot of us feel. Someone else mentioned how the show was their first-ever TV series – talk about impactful! It really takes you back.

It’s a reminder of how entertainment can connect us, how these stories and characters become part of our lives. Barbie Hsu, as Shancai, gave us so much. She made us laugh, she made us swoon, and she inspired us with her character’s strength. She was a part of so many childhoods, especially in the Philippines. Staying Safe While Travelling During Flu Season Barbie Hsu’s passing is also a sombre reminder of the risks of travelling during flu season. Whether you're heading abroad or simply planning a domestic trip, taking precautions can help you stay safe and healthy.

Here are some steps you can take before and during your travels:

Before Your Trip Get Vaccinated – The flu vaccine is one of the most effective ways to prevent severe illness. If you’re planning to travel, it’s worth getting your annual flu shot in advance.

Boost Your Immunity – Staying hydrated, eating a balanced diet, and getting enough rest can help strengthen your immune system.

Pack Essentials – Bring hand sanitiser, face masks, and basic medication like paracetamol and cold relief tablets in case you start feeling unwell.

Check Travel Insurance – Ensure your policy covers medical emergencies, including flu-related complications. What to Do If You Get Sick in Japan If you do happen to fall ill while in Japan, here’s what you should do:

Visit a Pharmacy – Many over-the-counter flu medications are available at Japanese drugstores, but keep in mind that some ingredients may differ from what you’re used to.

Seek Medical Help – Japan has excellent healthcare facilities. If your symptoms worsen, look for a nearby clinic or hospital. You can use the Japan National Tourism Organisation (JNTO) website to find an English-speaking doctor. Wear a Mask – In Japan, it’s common courtesy to wear a mask when you're feeling unwell to prevent spreading illness to others.

Rest and Stay Hydrated – If your symptoms are mild, take it easy and stay hydrated. Convenience stores stock plenty of easy-to-digest foods and drinks like sports drinks and rice porridge.

As we remember Barbie Hsu, let’s also take this as a reminder to prioritise our health while travelling. Stay safe, take precautions, and cherish the experiences that travel brings.

Rest in peace, Barbie Hsu. You’ll be missed.