A modified Long March 7 carrier rocket blasts off from the Wenchang Spacecraft Launch Site in Hainan province on May 26, 2026. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

On the night of May 26, 24 guests participating in the Nihao China: European Travel Media and Influencers' Hainan Tour witnessed something spectacular in the sky.

They watched the thrilling blastoff of a modified Long March 7 carrier rocket up close at the Wenchang Spacecraft Launch Site in Wenchang city in Hainan province, gaining a firsthand look at China's technological strength and the openness of the Hainan Free Trade Port.

After they heard the thunderous roars echoing from the launch tower and saw the flames which lit up the coastline, they marveled as the rocket streaked across the night sky and soared into the space.

The Wenchang Spacecraft Launch Site is China's first coastal space launch site and one of the few low-latitude coastal launch sites in the world.

In recent years, major missions — including the Chang'e lunar exploration, the Tianwen Mars mission and the construction of the Chinese space station — have all started here. Compared with the traditional image of remote and highly restricted space bases, the Wenchang site offers a striking mix of openness and tropical island charm.

Tropical island charm can be seen at the Wenchang Spacecraft Launch Site. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Space-themed attractions quickly became a favorite among the visiting guests. Many stopped to take photos at aerospace installations near the entrance, while spacesuits and rocket models inside the exhibition hall drew constant attention.

Some closely examined the details of China's spacesuits, while others put on simplified astronaut suits and helmets to pose for photos in front of rocket displays. Overall, the hall was filled with the sounds of camera shutters and lively conversations throughout the evening.

Shops around the launch site also attracted loads of visitors. Postcards, space passports and fridge magnets proved especially popular, with laughter frequently echoing from the outdoors games area.

Some members of the European media and influencers pose for photos in front of spacesuit displays. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Irish influencer Tariq Sawyer described the experience as "pretty exciting and amazing". He hopes to return to Wenchang in the future with his two children to watch another rocket launch.

In his view, having tourism, aerospace, healthcare and hospitality all together on one island — supported by well-developed facilities — makes the destination truly impressive.

Once best known for its coconut, coastline and overseas Chinese heritage, Wenchang is now gaining fresh appeal through its growing aerospace industry.

European media visitors and influencers take pictures of a rocket launch at the Wenchang Spacecraft Launch Site in Hainan province. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]