Stone houses in Beigang Village (File photo)

Pingtan International Tourism Island reflects on a remarkable 2024, having welcomed approximately 10.5 million visitors. This impressive milestone is a testament to the relentless efforts of a community of dedicated stakeholders. As the island steps into 2025, industry leaders share their insights, achievements, and aspirations for the future. 

Travel Agencies: Expanding Horizons

Xue Bin, chairman of Fujian Haitan International Travel Agency, is optimistic about Pingtan's growing appeal. "Through continuous market research, we've realized that modern travelers crave immersive experiences rather than superficial sightseeing. That's why we've developed tailored travel products, especially educational tours, to help visitors deeply connect with Pingtan's culture and natural beauty," he said. 

In 2024, Xue's agency served 160,000 tourists, a figure that aligns with their expectations. He also highlighted Pingtan's rising reputation, noting that the island's "Blue Tears" phenomenon and Trunk Bay have captured widespread attention. "Pingtan's popularity exceeds our imagination. Collaborating with tourism alliances will help us further promote the island's unique offerings," he added. 

Huang Qing, general manager of Xiamen C&D International Travel Service's Pingtan branch, shared similar enthusiasm. "Last year, we hosted nearly 6,000 international tourists, primarily from the US and Canada. Their high expectations pushed us to elevate our service standards," he said.

Looking ahead, Huang plans to tap into new markets, including Guangdong and Beijing, while introducing innovative travel routes. "We've incorporated cultural landmarks like the Keqiutou Site Museum into our itineraries, which have been well-received, especially by foreign tourists fascinated by Chinese history," he explained. 

Homestays: Creating a Home Away from Home

Pingtan's homestay industry has also flourished, with operators like Feng Junyan of ShuLi Cozy House focusing on warmth and comfort. "Since opening in 2023, we've attracted many visitors with our cozy, cream-themed decor and personalized service. Our goal is to make guests feel at home," she said. 

Feng's efforts have paid off, with guests like Lin Qian from Hubei praising the experience. "The ambiance is so charming, perfect for photos, and staying here just makes you happy," Lin remarked. 

Shi Yan, owner of Qiri Seaview Homestay, has also seen success since launching in June 2024. "We operate like a hotel, maintaining high standards in service, cleanliness, and design. This has earned us a loyal clientele," she said. Shi plans to enhance guest experiences in 2025 by offering activities like beachcombing tours and shared resources with other homestays. "We aim to give every visitor an unforgettable experience," she added. 

Restaurants: Blending Tradition with Innovation

The island's culinary scene is equally dynamic. Li Lanfang, F&B manager at Shuxiang Yishu Hotel, is passionate about showcasing Pingtan's flavors. "Our menu highlights local dishes like 'Shi Lai Yun Zhuan (or Lucky Dumplings),' a traditional delicacy that embodies the taste of home," she said. 

Li also introduced a unique farm-to-table concept, allowing guests to participate in agricultural activities. "We're integrating farming experiences with dining, offering projects like 'Adopt a Chicken,' where visitors can enjoy dishes made from their chosen poultry," she explained. 

At Qilin Pavilion Seafood Restaurant, owner Chen Fangrong has witnessed a surge in customers. "Word of mouth has been our best advertisement. Many tourists come because of local recommendations," she said. Chen plans to launch promotional packages and collaborate with influencers to further boost the restaurant's profile in 2025. 

A Bright Future Ahead

As Pingtan steps into 2025, the island's tourism industry is poised for continued growth. From immersive travel experiences and cozy homestays to innovative dining concepts, Pingtan is carving out a unique identity as a must-visit destination. With its natural beauty, rich culture, and dedicated professionals, the island is ready to welcome even more visitors in the years to come.