Zhoushan

Zhoushan consists of 1,390 islands, with travel centered on island scenery and Buddhist culture. It is well suited to short trips from Jiangsu, Zhejiang, Shanghai and nearby areas.

Classic itinerary planning

• 3 days, 2 nights (classic quick trip): Day 1 Arrive in Zhujiajian, visit Nansha and Daqingshan, and watch the sunset; Day 2 Take a boat to Mount Putuo to visit temples, then return in the evening; Day 3 Visit Guanyin Dharma Realm in the morning or watch the sunrise at Dongsha, then head home in the afternoon. Suitable for office workers with short holidays.
• 4 days, 3 nights (comfortable in-depth trip): Days 1–2 Visit Zhujiajian and Mount Putuo; Day 3 Take a boat to Miaozi Lake on Dongji Island, visit the lighthouse, and follow the coastal island route, staying overnight on the island; Day 4 Get up early to watch the sunrise at Dongfushan, then take a boat home in the afternoon. The schedule is more relaxed, with a chance to stargaze.
• 5 days, 4 nights (slow island-hopping trip): Add an in-depth visit to the Shengsi Islands or Gouqi Island to the 4-day itinerary, watch the sunset over offshore fish farms, and experience fishing-village life. Ideal for travelers who favor islands or are traveling with family.

Must-try foods in Zhoushan

In Zhoushan, you can sample East China Sea seafood brought ashore that day. Here are several common local choices:

How to choose your accommodation area

• Donggang commercial area: Amenities are comprehensive, and Shenjiamen’s night food stalls are within walking distance. There is a wide range of hotels and prices; shuttle buses run to Mount Putuo, making this suitable for first-time visitors to Zhoushan.

• Zhujiajian: Close to Wugongzhi Wharf, with many sea-view guesthouses, making it suitable for driving trips by the sea. Parking at the wharf is tight during the peak season, and taxis may also require a wait.

• Mount Putuo Island: Staying on the island gives you the easiest access to the temples, but accommodation is expensive, dining choices are limited, and shops close relatively early. It is better suited to itineraries focused on Buddhist visits.

Pitfalls to avoid and practical tips

• Boat and entrance tickets: From May to October, when visiting Mount Putuo or Dongji Island, buy boat tickets seven days in advance through the “Shengsi Passenger Transport” or “Zhoushan Haixing Ferry” WeChat official account. Do not rely on buying tickets on site.
• Incense at Mount Putuo: Temples do not allow outside incense; any incense you bring will be held temporarily. You can request incense at circulation offices inside the scenic area or receive free incense.
• Seafood price traps: When ordering at large food stalls, check the prices on the menu and ask for the exact cost of dishes marked “market price.” You can also buy seafood at a local market and have a restaurant cook it for you.
• Sun protection and seasickness: Island sunlight is strong, so bring high-SPF sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses. On trips to outer islands such as Dongji Island, the wind and waves are stronger during the latter part of the journey. Taking seasickness medicine in advance and choosing a middle or lower cabin is recommended.
• Watch the weather: May to October is typhoon season, and heavy fog or strong winds may suspend ferry service. Check weather warnings and ferry updates before departure, and allow half a day of flexibility.