One of China's top art schools, the Tianjin Academy of Fine Arts (TAFA), has decided to make Pingtan, Fujian province, a venue for vacation artists'retreats.

The decision came after a group of TAFA students fell in love with Pingtan during a recent trip to the island city.

A group of students from Tianjin Academy of Fine Arts pays a visit to Pingtan, Fujian province, trying to capture the unique beauty of the island city with their cameras. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

The city in Southeast China was the students'last stop after a nationwide tour. Inspired by the stunning coastal views, they spent their week in Pingtan capturing its beauty with their cameras.

According to the group's teacher, Li Tingting, a serendipitous combination of circumstances led the TAFA to base their vacation retreats in Pingtan.

"I had a student who's from Pingtan and he recommended the city to me," said Li. "The stone houses in the photos he sent to me fascinated me a lot."

In addition to popular scenic spots including Beigang village, Changjiangao wind farm and Dafu bay, the students also visited some rustic local fishing villages such as Yuyu village and Dongxiang Island during their stay in Pingtan.