Located in the southeastern part of Zhoushan in East China's Zhejiang province, Chaishan Island covers just 0.88 square kilometers. Once a small fishing island named after its primary use as a source of firewood, it has since been transformed into a destination for art and wellness.

An aerial view of Chaishan Island. [Photo/the official news website of Zhoushan]

Historically, the island was sparsely populated, with the first settlers from Ningbo, Wenzhou, and Zhoushan's Dinghai district arriving during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) and Qing Dynasty (1644-1911).

With abundant marine resources at its disposal, the island's economy was heavily dependent on fishing. However, due to urbanization and a decline in marine resources, many younger residents decided to leave, and the island was left to face the challenges associated with an aging population.

A view of the sea from Chaishan Island. [Photo/Zhoushan municipal government]

In 2023, Chaishan Island was selected as a pilot area for Zhoushan's "Hello, Small Island" project aimed at boosting island prosperity. This initiative has sparked new growth.

One of the key projects is the transformation of abandoned buildings into art and wellness spaces. The island now hosts the Xie Tian Art Gallery and Marine Biology Specimen Museum. For elderly residents, a program providing health care and companionship has been launched, with volunteers assisting them in daily life.

A spectacular view of the sunset at Chaishan Island. [Photo/Zhoushan municipal government]

As part of the broader development plan, Chaishan Island is integrating arts and wellness tourism. Infrastructure improvements continue, with the construction of the Bai Sha-Chaishan Bridge and island road projects now underway. The island's artistic and wellness transformation aims to provide a high-quality integrated wellness resort, making it a model for rural development and elderly care among China's islands.