[Photo provided to China Daily]

Though he has a busy schedule, Van Kerckhove has traveled to many places in China, such as the Shaolin Temple in Henan province and Xi'an city in Shaanxi province.

Meanwhile, he has set up a website of his pictures, and encourages people to contribute photos recording China's society and landscapes.

Van Kerckhove closely follows and comments on issues related to China, including the environment. An active blogger, he published a book called Toxic Capitalism in 2012, which is a study of environmental issues and overconsumption.

"As an engineer, I've always cared about waste and pollution," he says.

Van Kerckhove says he spent four months doing research for the book, and often worked late during that time.

The business strategist, who is a regular at the gym, also enjoys biking in Beijing.

Besides business, he is also actively involved in many social associations in the city, such as the Rotary Club.

He has even established a club called "Old China Hands" to bring together expatriates who have lived in China for more than 10 years.

"Everybody (in the club) has his experiences and problems to share. It's good fun to talk to them," he says.