The second "Seaside Sunset Market" was held on June 29-30 at the picturesque Jingsha Beach in Pingtan, attracting locals and tourists alike. With stalls showcasing a variety of cultural and creative products, and performers from Taiwan singing Minnan songs, the market created a vibrant and lively atmosphere. Pingtan is a rising international tourism island and the closest place on the mainland to the island of Taiwan.

Guochao (China Chic)

A mélange of vibrant stalls beckoned visitors with a tantalizing array of craftsmanship, including intricate handicrafts and a collection of Pingtan's cultural creatives and illustrations. Guochao, or China Chic, took center stage at the market, with Chinoiserie-influenced creations emerging as the top-selling items." Liao Tingxin, an 18-year-old vendor, combined calligraphy with cultural creativity at her stall, exuding a strong Chinese flavor. She expressed her excitement, saying, "I'm thrilled that people appreciate my calligraphy, especially those with local features like 'Pingtan,' 'Seascape,' and 'Jingsha Beach.' It's rewarding to see visitors taking photos with my work against the beautiful Pingtan backdrop."

A Fusion of Culture and Tourism

The market also emphasized the fusion of cultural creativity with tourism. Compared to its inaugural event, this year's market featured a richer and more diverse lineup of participants, including local creators, professional vendors nearby, and even Taiwan's ethnic minorities. "This time, we have a more varied mix of vendors, making the cultural exchange more vibrant," said market organizer Gan Yijing.

Wuhan tourist Pan Jingxian shared her excitement, "I bought a lovely bracelet and a fan with Pingtan elements. The market adds fun to the scenic spots, and I look forward to more events like this in Pingtan.

Cross-Straits Exchange

Vendors from Taiwan Qiu Yongying and Lai Shuzhen added a unique charm to the market, wearing traditional minority attire and sharing their handmade crafts. Qiu Yongying noted, "This is our first time participating in such a market, and it feels great to see visitors interested in our work. Pingtan is beautiful and reminds me of Hualien and Kenting in Taiwan."

Lai Shuzhen, visiting Pingtan for the first time, felt a deep connection to the place. "Our roots trace back to the Austronesian family, and I feel at home here. I often share my experiences in Pingtan on social platforms to let more people in Taiwan know about this beautiful place."

Engaging Activities and Cultural Performances

The market also featured sunset music live performances, cliffside bonfire parties, and movie screenings. During the sunset music session, Lai Shuzhen led visitors in traditional Taiwan dances and sang Minnan songs, sharing stories of her roots in Pingtan. "Our market has become a window for cultural exchange between the youth of both sides of the Taiwan Straits," Gan Yijing remarked.