Aerial view of Yishan Yixi Resort

Pingtan, China's second international tourism island after Hainan, is known for its rugged coastline, traditional stone houses, and rich cultural heritage. Nestled in Yufan Village, the Yishan Yixi Coastal Resort has emerged as a standout destination, offering high-end comfort and seaside romance.

A Miyazaki Sunset

As the sun dips below the horizon, golden hues spill across the waters of Yufan Bay. A red-and-white lighthouse stands sentinel over the beach, while vibrant murals line the village paths, creating a scene so picturesque it could belong in an animated film.

"It feels like stepping into a Hayao Miyazaki movie, especially in summer," said Ms. Pang, a visitor from Taizhou, captivated by the resort's dreamy aesthetic.

Picture-perfect relaxation at infinity pool

Yishan Yixi takes the island's rustic stone houses and waves in the threads of quiet luxury. Inside: Floor-to-ceiling windows frame the sea. Private balconies hang over the water. Infinity pools blur line between the tide. Smart amenities hum discreetly.

Centuries-old granite fishermen's cottages reimagined as minimalist eco-lodges

"We wanted to preserve the authenticity of the stone houses while ensuring luxury and comfort," said Zou Jun, the resort's manager. "For us, it's not just about aesthetics—it's about creating a memorable stay."

At the resort's seaside restaurant, guests sip coffee and savor local Pingtan cuisine on an open-air terrace, where sunsets paint the sky in breathtaking strokes of color.

Starry Whispers and Bonfire

Genghai Tribe Camp – where bonfires meet the stars

As dusk falls, the Genghai Tribe Camp ignites. Bonfires crackle, guitars strum, and laughter spills into the night air. Guests huddle around flames, toasting new friendships under a dome of stars. Every detail – art walls clad in oyster shells, time-worn fishing nets, stone pathways – sings of Pingtan's sea-kissed soul.

"We've hosted everything from corporate retreats to film shoots here," Zou Jun shared. "It's a space where people connect."

Liu Yongyan, a traveler from Fuzhou, praised the camp's convivial atmosphere. "Every time I visit Pingtan, I stay at Yishan Yixi. The bonfire nights are magical—you meet people from all over and leave with new friends."

A Name Bearing Love

The resort's name, Yishan Yixi (依山依汐), is a homophone for "1314," symbolizing eternal love—a nod to founder Wang Zuohua's own romance. Decades ago, Wang and his sweetheart strolled along Yufan Bay's shores, their love story unfolding against the backdrop of crashing waves.

"I was too shy to hold her hand back then," Wang recalled with a smile. Years later, the successful entrepreneur returned to build this resort where his love story began.

Now, under Zou Jun's leadership—a hospitality expert with experience at Marriott and InterContinental—the resort prioritizes personalized service, offering dedicated concierges and seamless guest experiences.

Resort concierge

During the recent May Day holiday, occupancy rates soared above 90%, providing jobs for locals and etching Pingtan's coastal magic into visitor memories.

As Wang puts it, "We want every guest to take a piece ofthe island's untamed beauty home."