Pingtan Island

Pingtan Island, also known as Haitan Island, is the fifth largest island in China and the largest in Fujian Province. It's located in the southeast of Fuzhou, just 68 nautical miles from Hsinchu, Taiwan, earning the nickname "Thousand Reef Island County." The place is famous for its unique coastal erosion landforms, long coastline, quaint stone village houses, and the stunning "blue tears" spectacle, being dubbed a "museum of coastal erosion landforms." Pingtan Island blends ocean culture, Minnan and Taiwanese styles, and the history of the Austronesian language family, making it a national scenic area and an international tourism pilot island, attracting countless visitors to explore its secrets.

1. History

The island has a long history dating back to the Qin Dynasty, with records mentioning it. During the Ming and Qing dynasties, it became a crucial military stronghold. Many military relics remain on the island, such as the Jiangjun Mountain Fortress, witnessing the defense history of China's southeastern coastline. Additionally, Pingtan is one of the important sources of the Austronesian language family, with its cultural influence spreading across various Pacific islands.

2. Attractions

• Haitan Bay National Marine Park: The largest beach on the Chinese continental shelf, with fine sand perfect for leisurely walks by the sea.

• Xianren Jing: A natural sea-eroded cave where waves crash against the cliffs, creating an impressive sight.

• Beigang Cultural and Creative Village: Known for stone houses, where you can experience the charm of fishing villages and art.

• Houyan Island: The closest point on the mainland to Taiwan (68 nautical miles away), featuring rocky landscapes ideal for photo ops.

• Tannan Bay Beach: Famous for its "blue tears" glowing sea scenery, which can be admired at night.

3. Tour routes

• A day trip may include Xianren Well → Beigang Village → Changjiang Ao Windmill Field → Tannan Bay (to see the blue tears at night).

• A two-day trip could be Day 1: Haitan Bay → Houyan Island → Haitan Ancient City; Day 2: Northern Bay Ecological Corridor → Shipai Ocean → Shisanlu Lake.

4. Best visiting season/Not recommended visiting season

• Best season: April to October, nice weather, great for beach activities, the peak of "blue tears" can be seen in May-June.

• Not recommended season: Winter (November to February), windy and cold, some water activities are closed.

5. Transportation

• High-speed rail from Fuzhou South Station to Pingtan Station (about 1 hour, ticket price around 40 yuan), then a 30-minute taxi ride to the attractions (about 50 yuan).

• Driving from Fuzhou to Pingtan Island takes about 1.5 hours with a bridge toll around 50 yuan.

• The bus from Fuzhou Changle Airport to Pingtan takes about 2 hours at a cost of 60 yuan.

6. Tickets and fees

• Free attractions: Beigang Village, Tannan Bay, Yangtze River Ao Windmill Field.

• Paid attractions: Xianrenjing (25 yuan), Shipaiyang (20 yuan), Monkey Research Island (38 yuan).

• Optional experience: jet ski (150 yuan/30 minutes), snorkeling (200 yuan/time), RV camping (300 yuan/night).

7. Tips

• Certain spots (like Xianren Well) may be closed during typhoons or extreme weather. 

• There is a luggage storage service at the visitor center for 10 yuan per item.