Pingtan, a rising international tourism island off the coast of southeastern China's Fujian province, is strengthening its global appeal by leveraging international cruise routes and world-class sporting events, drawing an increasing number of overseas visitors. In 2024, the region saw a significant rise in foreign tourist arrivals, with an annual total of 10.5 million visitors and a remarkable 300% increase in international tourists. 

A major driver of this growth is Pingtan's expanding cruise industry. Last year, the region launched five international cruise routes to Japan and South Korea, alongside seven domestic coastal routes catering primarily to international travelers. These cruises welcomed 8,300 passengers on international routes and 4,000 overseas visitors on domestic routes, boasting an occupancy rate of 82.34%. 

"We are committed to enhancing Pingtan as an international tourism island," said Chen Jianxiang, deputy director of the Tourism Culture Service Center of Pingtan Comprehensive Pilot Zone. "By refining our tourism infrastructure and elevating service standards, we aim to meet the diverse needs of global travelers." 

In addition to cruise tourism, Pingtan has emerged as a dynamic hub for international sports. Throughout 2024, the region hosted seven high-profile sporting events, including the World Beach Handball Championship, Wingfoil Racing World Cup, U18 Women's Baseball World Cup qualifiers, and the Volleyball World Beach Pro Tour. These events attracted over 1,100 international athletes from 75 countries and regions and drew 11,000 overseas spectators. 

"The surge in international sports tourism has been a game-changer for local businesses," said Zhang Qiang, a representative from the local sports authority. "Hotels, restaurants, and transportation services have all experienced significant growth during event periods." 

To further enrich the visitor experience, organizers introduced bilingual volunteer services, event-linked travel packages, and immersive cultural activities, inspiring tourists to explore Pingtan beyond the competition venues. 

Looking ahead, Pingtan aims to strengthen its reputation as a global sports destination with a series of signature events, including the Asian Baseball Championship, International Kitesurfing Grand Slam, Asian Beach Volleyball Tour, and the "Ocean Cup" International Cycling Race. The region also plans to enhance event services, collaborate with commercial districts, and introduce special tourism packages to create a seamless and engaging experience for both athletes and spectators. 

"As we continue to refine our offerings, we want every visitor—whether an athlete or a spectator—to enjoy a smooth, comfortable, and unforgettable experience in Pingtan," said Chen Min, deputy director of Sports Technology at the Pingtan Tourism and Culture Bureau.