Zhang Zhe (left) discusses development plans with his business partners.

Pingtan, located off the coast of Fujian Province, stands as the Chinese mainland's closest point to the island of Taiwan and a national comprehensive pilot zone for cross-Straits integration. As China's second international tourism island following Hainan, it has become a magnet for entrepreneurs drawn to its unspoiled coastal scenery and growing tourism potential—including Zhang Zhe, a native of Jiangxi Province who has turned his "island dream" into reality through creative ventures.

Zhang's connection to Pingtan began in 2016, when he visited a friend who ran a homestay hostel. The island's crystal seas and lack of excessive commercialization left a deep impression. "Back then, Pingtan wasn't a mature tourist spot yet, but its natural beauty felt full of possibilities," Zhang recalled, noting that the visit planted the seed of his entrepreneurial vision.

By 2022, Pingtan was ramping up efforts to enhance its global tourism appeal, with its Tannan Bay area in need of new service models. Zhang saw an opportunity, having observed that top coastal destinations offer more than just "viewing the sea" —they create immersive experiences. "Choosing the right place at the right time is more important than just working hard," he said. "Pingtan was like a blank canvas, giving us the freedom to create something unique."

His first venture, the "Whale Joy Blue Tears Coffee Shop," filled a gap in Pingtan's tourism market by launching the island's first beachside coffee service. Designed with tourists in mind, the shop featured sun umbrellas and sofas that complemented the golden sand and blue sea, making it a hit for photos. "We focused on what travelers want—especially a place that looks good in pictures," Zhang explained. The shop quickly gained popularity, establishing a new "beach coffee" trend in Pingtan.

A bird's-eye view of the "Star Tear" coffee space

Indoors, elements inspired by Pingtan can be seen everywhere.

Tableware polished from seashells

In May 2025, Zhang expanded with the "Star Tear" coffee space in a prime location along Pingtan's Northern Ecological Corridor with unobstructed sea views and a clear line of grand sight to the Pingtan Strait Rail-cum-Road Bridge. This time, he aimed to blend local culture into the experience. The space used local materials like seashells (crafted into tableware) and volcanic rocks (for decor), along with art and blankets featuring motifs from the ancient Austronesian culture—an important part of Pingtan's heritage.

A tourist taking photos at "Star Tear" coffee space

"We named it 'Isaro Coffee' after a Rwandan legend, where 'Isaro' means 'tears of the stars' that turn into pearls in the sea," Zhang said. "It fits Pingtan's romantic vibe perfectly and lets us share local culture through small details."

Under the coconut trees, sun umbrellas and lounge chairs are scattered around, as tourists leisurely enjoy the sea breeze.

Coconut trees sway gently in the wind.

Most recently, Zhang took on a new challenge: growing coconut trees in Pingtan. "Many visitors asked, 'Why no coconut trees on this island?'" he said. Despite Pingtan's harsh winters (temperatures can drop below 5°C) and frequent typhoons—conditions not ideal for coconut trees—he decided to try. He consulted experts, imported 20 saplings from Hainan, and transplanted them with their original soil to boost chances of survival, even trimming their leaves to resist strong winds.

Today, Pingtan's beach coffee scene has boomed, bringing competition. But Zhang stays focused on his original goal. "Success comes from taking action," he said. "Don't overthink it before you start—action solves problems." From a single beach coffee shop to a culture-focused space and experimental coconut grove, Zhang continues to build his island dream one venture at a time.