A net stirs gently in the dim blue glow, instantly awakening the luminous "blue tears" in the water. [Photo by Lin Junbin]

Pingtan, a picturesque island county in Fujian Province facing the Taiwan Straits, is famed for its enchanting natural phenomenon known as "blue tears," which draws visitors from across China and beyond. For years, catching a glimpse of the fleeting glow depended on weather and tides, often leaving visitors waiting in vain. Now, a new experience center is making this coastal wonder accessible year-round.

Pingtan Blue Tears Experience Center [Photo by Lin Junbin]

Located beside the No. 22 International Yacht Marina, the Pingtan Blue Tears Experience Center uses advanced cultivation technology to maintain a steady glow. Visitors no longer need to rely on luck—they can watch, touch, and even scoop up the shimmering light with small nets. Blending interactive exhibits with science education, the center transforms a rare natural event into a reliable and immersive experience.

Ruan Yibin, founder of the center and a new resident of Pingtan, invested more than 2 million yuan and spent nearly a year overcoming technical challenges to cultivate suitable dinoflagellates. After testing over 200 species, his team selected Pyrocystis fusiformis, known for its stable glow and low maintenance. "I want every visitor to experience a tangible sense of romance," Ruan said. "Travel is not just about seeing—it should be something you can feel and remember."

Blue tears-themed souvenirs [Photo by Lin Junbin]

Jiang Lan, the center's operations director, emphasizes attentive and welcoming service. In just one month since opening in mid-March, the center has received over 800 visitors. Many who missed the phenomenon at the beach found a sense of fulfillment here, enjoying close-up interaction and taking home themed souvenirs. "The experience economy lies in thoughtful details and genuine hospitality," Jiang said. The team monitors temperature, humidity, and lighting around the clock to keep the glow vibrant.

Rocks are bathed in a soft blue halo. [Photo by Lin Dianying]

Visitors have responded enthusiastically. One traveler from Fuzhou said the hands-on experience was far more memorable than distant viewing. A tour group from Guangdong noted that the center made up for their earlier disappointment at seeing only faint blue tears at sea. The project has transformed Pingtan's signature natural spectacle from a weather-dependent phenomenon into a consistent and interactive tourism highlight.