Things To Do
in Pingtan

Pingtan, China, is a picturesque island city located in Fujian Province, known for its stunning coastal scenery and cultural heritage. It is the largest island in Fujian and serves as a key gateway to Taiwan, making it a bustling center for trade and tourism. The city boasts beautiful beaches, unique rock formations, and a rich history that reflects both Chinese and Taiwanese influences.

Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, delicious seafood, and vibrant local culture.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Coast
morning
:

Start your day at Pingtan's beautiful beaches, such as Aoqian Beach, where you can enjoy a morning stroll along the shore and take in the fresh ocean air.

afternoon
:

Visit the Pingtan Island Bridge for panoramic views and then explore the local seafood market to taste some of the freshest catches.

evening
:

End your day with a seafood dinner at a local restaurant followed by a leisurely walk along the coastline to watch the sunset.

day 2
Day 2: Cultural Discoveries
morning
:

Begin your day by visiting the Pingtan Museum to learn about the local history and culture.

afternoon
:

Head to the ancient town of Dongshan, where you can explore traditional architecture and local artisan shops.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local eatery and experience a traditional performance if available in the area.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Meal at a local restaurant$5
Coffee$2
🚕Taxi ride (within city)$3
🎟️Museum entry fee$1
🏨Budget hotel night$20

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning coastal scenery and beaches.
  • Rich cultural heritage and delicious seafood.
  • Less crowded than major tourist cities.
  • Limited nightlife options.
  • Communication barriers for non-Chinese speakers.
  • Public transportation can be infrequent.
  • "你好" - Hello
  • "谢谢" - Thank you
  • "请问厕所在哪里?" - Excuse me, where is the bathroom?
  • "我可以要这个吗?" - Can I have this?
  • "多少钱?" - How much is this?

Places to Visit in Pingtan

Visit one of these nice places.

Aoqian Beach

Known for its golden sands and clear waters, this beach is perfect for capturing sunset shots.

Pingtan Island Bridge

An architectural marvel that offers stunning views of the seascape and is an ideal backdrop for photos.

Dongshan Ancient Town

With its traditional buildings and scenic streets, this town provides a picturesque setting for cultural photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Pingtan

Pingtan offers a delightful array of local cuisine, particularly known for its fresh seafood and unique flavors that reflect its coastal heritage.

Pingtan Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Seafood Hotpot

A flavorful hotpot filled with a variety of fresh seafood, including fish, shrimp, and clams.

Must-Try!

Fujian-style Fried Rice

A delicious stir-fried rice dish, often made with seafood, vegetables, and a hint of soy sauce.

Pingtan Tofu

Silky tofu served in a savory broth, often accompanied by local herbs and spices.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Pingtan Seafood Market

A bustling market where you can select fresh seafood and have it cooked on the spot.

Night Market Street Food

An array of food stalls offering grilled skewers, dumplings, and local snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

Pingtan features a subtropical maritime climate, characterized by hot summers and mild winters. Summer temperatures can reach up to 35°C (95°F), while winter temperatures rarely drop below 5°C (41°F). Rainfall is common in the summer months, particularly in July and August, while winters are much drier. The best time to visit is during the spring and autumn when temperatures are mild and comfortable.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Always show respect to elders, such as allowing them to eat first.

Avoiding Loud Conversations

Keep your voice down in public spaces, as loud conversations can be seen as disruptive.

Politeness in Communication

Use polite language and greetings; a smile goes a long way in establishing rapport.

Safety Guide

Safety

Pingtan is generally a safe city for tourists, with low crime rates. However, it's advisable to take standard precautions such as securing your belongings and being cautious in crowded areas. Additionally, when swimming at the beach, pay attention to local warnings regarding currents and tides.

Tipping in Pingtan

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in Pingtan, but rounding up the bill is appreciated in restaurants.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but mobile payments through WeChat Pay and Alipay are very popular.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it a great time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Summer can be hot and humid; however, it's perfect for beach activities and seafood festivals.

Autumn

Autumn offers pleasant weather and beautiful foliage, ideal for sightseeing and hiking.

Winter

Winter is mild with occasional rainfall, but it's less crowded and a good time for indoor cultural activities.

Nightlife Guide

Pingtan at Night

Pingtan's nightlife is relatively laid-back compared to larger cities, with several beach bars and seafood restaurants offering a relaxing atmosphere. Local night markets come alive in the evenings, providing a vibrant scene with street food, games, and live performances. For those looking to enjoy a drink, there are beachside bars where you can sip cocktails while enjoying the ocean breeze.

Hiking in Pingtan

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Dongshan Mountain Trail

This trail offers a moderate hike with stunning views over the coastline and is well-marked for trekkers.

Haitang Bay Hiking Trail

A scenic coastal trail that provides picturesque views of the ocean and unique rock formations.

Airports

How to reach Pingtan by plane.

Pingtan Airport (PTN)

Located about 10 km from the city center, this airport offers domestic flights and a few international connections.

Getting Around

Walkability

Pingtan is fairly walkable, particularly in the coastal areas and local markets. Most attractions are within a reasonable distance from each other, making it easy to explore on foot. However, some areas may require transportation due to their distance from the main tourist spots.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Han Chinese

The majority demographic, Han Chinese, makes up most of Pingtan's population, contributing to its cultural landscape.

Taiwanese Residents

Due to its proximity to Taiwan, there is a notable Taiwanese community, influencing local culture and cuisine.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Basketball

Basketball is widely played among the youth, with many parks and courts available.

Soccer

Soccer is a popular sport, particularly in schools and local clubs.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Pingtan is generally light compared to larger cities. Public transportation includes buses and taxis, which are affordable and convenient for getting around. Biking is also a popular mode of transport, especially along the coastal paths.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Pingtan.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetable-based dishes, but it's advisable to specify your dietary needs.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free options may be limited; communication with restaurant staff is key.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Pingtan includes several hospitals and clinics, with the main hospital offering a range of services. Emergency care is available, but English-speaking staff may be limited. It is advised for travelers to have health insurance and carry any necessary medications.

Discover China

Read more in our China 2025 Travel Guide.

China Travel Guide