Island tourism holds substantial potential in China, but-with the exception of islands in Hainan-the present facilities need to be upgraded and the sophisticated planning necessary for the islands has yet to be developed, Huang Huang, a researcher with China Tourism Academy, says.

On some islands with a sizable local population, activities are limited to fishing-village experiences, seafood and inexpensive accommodation that are operated mostly by local households, Huang says, adding that the facilities on those islands need to be upgraded.

Most of the undeveloped islands, which are blessed with picturesque scenery, can be turned into tourism destinations, but a change in policies is necessary. A balance between ecological protection and tourism development, for example, should, and can, be achieved.

Huang, however, suggests specialty tourism facilities, instead of massive tourism projects, be built on many of those islands, to avoid harmful encroachment on local ecology.

High-end plans are crucial in developing the islands so that they can offer specialty activities such as a port of call for cruises, a wellness center, a place for outdoor activities, or a base for scientific study and research.

However, return on investment on tourism facilities takes a relatively long time, and many domestic investors are inclined to seek quick returns by turning tourism projects into real estate developments. This approach should be avoided, Huang says.