A cluster of stone houses overlook a blue bay in Pingtan. [Photo by Yang Jie/China Daily]

Fan began to renovate the houses in March 2016 after two years of research and design.

"My principle is to let visitors discover traces of the former residents' lives," he said.

The kitchen where they once cooked has an old-style cooking bench, and old inscriptions on the walls quoting Chairman Mao still stand out, he said.

The flat roof and small window, which were originally built to prevent typhoons, also remain.

The original designs demonstrate the locals' adaptability and their ability to live harmoniously with nature, Fan said.

"There is a joke that says Pingtan has strong winds twice a year. Each lasts for six months," he said. "Wind created everything, from the silver sand to the unique architectural style."

There is sufficient sunlight in the daytime and when it is getting dark, the temperature will drop by three to four degrees.

"Tourists who come here may have their heart purified by changing their lifestyle," Fan said.

August marks the first anniversary of Pingtan being approved as an international tourism island.

Local infrastructure facilities and transportation networks have improved. More activities have been held there, including an international cycling contest, yacht race, musical festival and an island forum.

Zhang Zhaoming, Party chief of the Pingtan Comprehensive Pilot Zone, said the number of tourists visiting the island is expected to top 9 million by 2021.

Pingtan will become a base for island tourism, premier medical healthcare, and luxurious and honeymoon travels, as well as featuring the yacht and sea fishing industries, he said.