Core Viewpoint - The report highlights the illegal tourism activities on uninhabited islands, specifically focusing on the South Diao Island in Fujian, revealing significant environmental damage and regulatory failures in managing these areas [1][36]. Group 1: Illegal Tourism Activities - South Diao Island, a protected area, has become a popular destination for illegal tourism despite regulations prohibiting such activities [5][20]. - Tourists are using social media to find "island-hopping" guides and boat rental services, which are not sanctioned by authorities [5][34]. - Local villagers are capitalizing on this demand by offering boat services to the island, despite the lack of official tourism infrastructure [9][34]. Group 2: Environmental Impact - The island is experiencing severe ecological damage due to littering and unauthorized camping activities by tourists [17][24]. - The unique geological features of South Diao Island, including its 1.4 million basalt columns, are at risk from physical damage caused by tourist activities [22][24]. - Evidence of fire pits and discarded waste indicates a disregard for the island's natural environment, which is classified as a national nature reserve [20][24]. Group 3: Regulatory and Safety Concerns - The lack of enforcement personnel at the site raises concerns about the effectiveness of existing regulations [11][34]. - Recent incidents of tourists getting stranded or injured due to illegal activities highlight the safety risks associated with unregulated tourism [25][30]. - Experts emphasize that both tourists and service providers should be held accountable for engaging in illegal tourism practices [30][32].

Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the rising trend of domestic tourism in China, particularly the increasing popularity of uninhabited islands like Nan Dian Island, which poses ecological and safety risks due to illegal tourism activities [1][3][19]. Group 1: Tourism Trends - During the National Day and Mid-Autumn Festival holiday, domestic travel reached a record high of 888 million trips [1]. - Tourists are shifting from conventional sightseeing to niche and adventurous travel experiences, leading to a surge in interest in uninhabited islands [1][19]. Group 2: Legal and Regulatory Issues - According to the Island Protection Law of the People's Republic of China, any form of tourism on uninhabited islands is prohibited without approval [3][13]. - Despite regulations, social media platforms are filled with guides and recommendations for illegal trips to Nan Dian Island, indicating a gap in enforcement [3][19]. Group 3: Local Insights - Local residents in Zhanpu County are capitalizing on the demand for trips to Nan Dian Island by offering boat services, despite the island being officially closed to tourists [5][9]. - The local accommodation sector is thriving, with high demand for lodging from visitors intending to access the island [9][11]. Group 4: Safety and Responsibility - Experts warn that unauthorized visits to uninhabited islands can lead to serious safety incidents, with liability falling on both the tourists and the service providers involved [15][17]. - The lack of safety measures and qualifications among transport providers raises significant concerns regarding the risks associated with illegal tourism [17][19]. Group 5: Ecological Concerns - Uninhabited islands are crucial components of fragile ecosystems, and illegal tourism threatens their preservation [19][20]. - Strengthened regulations and increased awareness among tourists are essential to protect these vulnerable natural areas [19].