A corner of the 'Black Reef' in the communal area

In the tranquil corners of China's Pingtan Island in Fujian Province, a unique blend of art, hospitality, and local heritage is inviting travelers to slow down and savor the moment. The "WuWaiZhi Retreat" Art Collective Space, nestled in the picturesque Tanshui Village, is a harmonious blend of a café, guesthouse, and tea room, all set against the backdrop of the island's iconic stone houses and the rhythmic rotation of offshore windmills.

"The concept is to provide a sanctuary for the mind and spirit amidst the hustle of modern life," said Zheng Zengyi, the enthusiastic host of WuWaiZhi, who, along with her partner Lin Zhixiong, has infused their artistic background into the space. "Our design philosophy is to blend Eastern charm with a mix of ancient and modern, domestic and international elements, aiming to resonate with our guests on a deeper level beyond the physical."

The café at WuzWaiZhi offers a sophisticated ambiance with a minimalist color palette, accentuated by vintage furniture and clean lines. Lin Zhixiong, who is also a skilled barista, crafts his signature coffee with a meticulous process that turns the brewing experience into a performance. The aroma of freshly ground beans fills the air, as he expertly guides the hot water through the coffee grounds, drawing out a rich, full-bodied brew.

Visitors like Stella from Fuzhou, after snapping photos and settling into the plush sofa with a cup of the house specialty, can't help but be captivated by the serene seascape outside the panorama windows. "The view alone is therapeutic enough to spend an entire afternoon here without a care in the world," she remarked.

Sunlight streams into the room, creating a cosy atmosphere.

The guesthouse portion of WuWaiZhi, named "Black Reef" and "White Stone," draws inspiration from the village's distinctive dark blue stone, offering a unique and comfortable stay that is both warm in winter and cool in summer.

The rooms are adorned with vintage items collected from places like Jingdezhen, the porcelain capital of China and locally from Pingtan, each with its own story and character, adding a layer of depth and charm to the space.

Tea sets and snacks in the tea room

"We wanted to maintain the architectural features of the stone houses while integrating local cultural elements," Zheng explained. "Our goal is not just to pile on tradition but to create a multifaceted and harmonious art space that includes handicrafts, tea culture, and coffee culture."

Hosts Lin Zhixiong (left) and Zheng Zengyi (right) share their design philosophy with the reporters.

The WuWaiZhi Art Collective Space, a labor of love for Zheng and Lin, has been carefully crafted since the idea first took root in 2022. After a thorough search for the perfect location and a 10-month renovation, the space opened its doors in February 2023. Word of mouth, social media, and platforms like Xiaohongshu (Little Red Book) have been instrumental in spreading the news about this hidden gem.

Host Zheng Zengyi opens the skylight of the room.

Lin, a second-generation B&B entrepreneur, brings a fresh perspective to the traditional stone house, combining nostalgia with innovation. With the support of his father, a seasoned innkeeper, Lin and Zheng have embarked on a journey to create a space that resonates with the spirit of adventure and the essence of the island's culture.

"Young people should have the spirit of striving," said Lin Qiangquan, Lin Zhixiong's father. "Now that the groundwork is laid, it's time to focus on the journey ahead with determination and courage."

The vase is adorned with meticulously arranged plants by the hosts.

WuWaiZhi is more than just a place to stay; it's an experience that invites travelers to immerse themselves in the slower, more thoughtful pace of life on Pingtan Island.