Zhoushan

Zhoushan is China's only prefecture-level archipelago city, famous for Mount Putuo, the "Buddhist Kingdom on the Sea," and Shenjiamen, the "Fishery Capital of China." It comprises 2,085 islands.

Located in northeastern Zhejiang Province, Zhoushan is China's only prefecture-level archipelago city, made up of 2,085 islands and known as the "City of a Thousand Islands." Situated where the Yangtze River Estuary meets Hangzhou Bay, it backs onto the Yangtze River Delta economic zone and faces the vast East China Sea. Its strategic location has made it a military stronghold and maritime trade gateway on China's eastern coast since ancient times.
Here, you can climb Mount Putuo and find inner peace amid chanting monks; head to Dongji Island to greet the mainland's first rays of dawn and soak up the artistic, windswept atmosphere of the film The Continent; explore Peach Blossom Island and live out a martial arts fantasy from Jin Yong's novels; or stroll through the Shengsi Islands, lost in a stunning landscape of turquoise seas, dramatic reefs, golden sands, and fishing lights.
You can also take an "Island Express" helicopter to gaze down at the spectacular scattering of a thousand islands from the clouds—a breathtaking, unforgettable view—or sit at a night seafood stall in Shenjiamen Fishing Port, feel the salty sea breeze, and feast on swimming crabs, hairtail fish, and mantis shrimp freshly caught from the East China Sea, experiencing the vibrant local life of the "Fishery Capital of China." Zhoushan is more than just ocean views—it's the sound of Buddhist chants, the sweet freshness on your tongue, and the first light captured through your lens. Come to Zhoushan for a sensory feast of freedom, romance, and flavor.
Beyond its tourism appeal, Zhoushan is also a major Chinese fishery center and port city. Shenjiamen Fishing Port is one of the world's three largest fishing ports. During fishing season, thousands of boats gather with masts rising like a forest, and the seafood at the night stalls keeps visitors coming back for more. Today, with the development of the Zhoushan Archipelago New Area and Free Trade Zone, Zhoushan is writing its own unique maritime story between modernity and tradition, under the dual identity of "Buddhist Kingdom on the Sea, Fishery Capital and Port City."

ZhoushanAttractions

Mount Putuo

Nansha Beach, Zhujiajian

Shengsi Islands

Dongji Island

ZhoushanTravel guide

This Zhoushan scenery guide covers spring, summer, fall and winter island activities, with unique sea views and food all year round.

This Zhoushan scenery guide covers spring, summer, fall and winter island activities, with unique sea views and food all year round.

This Zhoushan travel guide details what each season offers: fewer crowds, gentle breezes and peaceful sea views in spring—perfect for photos and relaxing; swimming, beachcombing and maybe even spotting the magical blue tears in summer; the best weather and endless fresh seafood after the fishing ban lifts in fall; and birdwatching, praying and unwinding in winter. Every season in Zhoushan offers a different experience.

Complete Zhoushan Food Guide | Seafood stalls + time-honored restaurants + local snacks—enjoy the island's freshest flavors without any tourist traps

Complete Zhoushan Food Guide | Seafood stalls + time-honored restaurants + local snacks—enjoy the island's freshest flavors without any tourist traps

Whether it's your first time visiting Zhoushan or you're just a seafood lover, this guide helps you enjoy authentic local flavors. From the bustling seafood stalls in Shenjiamen to century-old restaurants in Dinghai and affordable street snacks, every bite is a gift from the East China Sea. No fluff—just follow this guide and you won't go wrong!

Zhoushan Transportation Travel Guide | A Must-read for Visitors! Flights/High-speed Rail/Buses/Ferries/Island Taxis + Parking Guide

Zhoushan Transportation Travel Guide | A Must-read for Visitors! Flights/High-speed Rail/Buses/Ferries/Island Taxis + Parking Guide

Zhoushan, the "Pearl of the East China Sea" made up of 1,390 islands, lives off the sea and connects island to island. Its biggest transport quirk is that you can't get around without boats—ferries are a must to reach any island. Many first-time visitors wonder, "How do I get to Zhoushan?" This travel guide covers flights, high-speed trains, buses, ferries, taxis, and parking, so you'll be ready to go after reading it!

First time in Zhoushan? Stick to these attractions! Skip the overhyped islands and only visit the spots that matter

First time in Zhoushan? Stick to these attractions! Skip the overhyped islands and only visit the spots that matter

This Zhoushan travel guide comes with zero filters. We only recommend the core attractions truly worth visiting, clearly laying out the highlights, must-see spots, and things to avoid for each one. Beginners can just follow along—no complicated planning needed. Dodge all the tourist traps and explore Zhoushan with ease.

Zhoushan island photography guide: viral free photo spots, golden hour shooting times, and beach outfit tips

Zhoushan island photography guide: viral free photo spots, golden hour shooting times, and beach outfit tips

A complete guide to free photo spots and golden hour shooting times in Zhoushan's Zhujiajian, Dongji, Shengsi, Huaniao, and Mount Putuo, plus seaside outfit tips and travel options including station transfers, custom itineraries, and private car services.

Zhoushan travel guide | A fully immersive 3-day Zhoushan itinerary, including a hassle-free route for sunrises and island hopping

Zhoushan travel guide | A fully immersive 3-day Zhoushan itinerary, including a hassle-free route for sunrises and island hopping

First time in Zhoushan? How to plan 3 days: follow the Zhujiajian–Mount Putuo–Dongji Islands route for beach sunrises, coastal roads, temple prayers and island loops. Fewer detours, no rushing, plus easy seafood dining and fishing port strolls.

Zhoushan experiences, crafts & fishing culture guide | Immerse yourself in island fishing life and skip the rushed sightseeing

Zhoushan experiences, crafts & fishing culture guide | Immerse yourself in island fishing life and skip the rushed sightseeing

In this Zhoushan travel guide, I'll take you beyond the usual "look at the sea, eat seafood" routine and unlock another side of Zhoushan through immersive experiences. From deep-sea fishing to intangible cultural heritage crafts, from fishermen's daily life to Zen meditation, every experience lets you truly step into Zhoushan and feel the warmth and soul of the island. Follow along, and you'll fall in love with a different Zhoushan.

Complete Zhoushan accommodation guide: hotel tips by area (Zhujiajian | Mount Putuo | Shengsi) + best-value homestay picks

Complete Zhoushan accommodation guide: hotel tips by area (Zhujiajian | Mount Putuo | Shengsi) + best-value homestay picks

This guide breaks down Zhoushan's popular accommodation areas one by one—covering location, prices, pros and cons, ideal traveler types, specific hotel and homestay recommendations, and tips to avoid bad deals. Everything is explained in one go. Whether you're on a couples' getaway, a family tour, a trip with friends, or a budget backpacking adventure, you'll find the right place to stay. Just read and book—no more endless searching.

ZhoushanVideos

[Fall in Love with Dongji 3 Days 2 Nights] Join a GreenTourAsia guide for a Dongji Island 3-day tour you'll never forget

Views: 66•122 days ago

[Mount Putuo Blessings 3 Days 2 Nights] Take a 3-day tour of Zhejiang for a brand-new travel experience

Views: 69•105 days ago

[Shengsi Dreaming 2 Days 1 Night] Want to feel the island breeze on your Zhoushan trip? Join GreenTourAsia and head to the Shengsi Islands

Views: 45•126 days ago

[Discover Dongji 3 Days 2 Nights] Here's the Dongji Island 3-day tour route! Read this and head straight to Zhoushan

Views: 51•122 days ago

[Buddhist Kingdom of Sea and Sky 6 Days 5 Nights] Zhejiang travel guide: skip the crowds and explore Zhejiang's top attractions

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[Riding the Waves at Nansha 3 Days 2 Nights] A Zhejiang 3-day tour for an immersive Zhoushan adventure

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[Fairyland Island 6 Days 5 Nights] Where to go in Zhejiang? Experience the romance of the sea in Zhoushan!

[Falling for Dongji 3 Days 2 Nights] Travel to Zhoushan with GreenTourAsia and fall in love with Dongji Island in three days

[Hidden Gouqi Island 3 Days 2 Nights] A Zhoushan 3-day tour of the area's lesser-known attractions

Lazy 3-day tour itinerary for Zhoushan: ocean views, prayers & fishing villages all in one trip

Discover authentic East China Sea cuisine and unlock a seafood feast in Zhoushan

Zhoushan travel guide for all four seasons: discover the different charms of the East China Sea

ZhoushanItinerary

[Paradise Islands 6 Days 5 Nights] Shanghai, Zhoushan & Dongji Island

[Paradise Islands 6 Days 5 Nights] Shanghai, Zhoushan & Dongji Island

[Comfortable stay] Choose between 4-star and 5-star hotels! [Thoughtful service] Custom vehicles and experienced East China drivers ensure a safe, worry-free journey! [No Shopping Stops] A quality group tour with no shopping stops—a pure travel experience; one trip, memories for a lifetime! [Free bonus] One bottle of branded mineral water per person per day!

★5(20)·20 travelers have joined

[Hidden Jiangnan 7 Days 6 Nights] Shanghai, Xitang, Mount Putuo, Nanxun, Wuzhen

[Hidden Jiangnan 7 Days 6 Nights] Shanghai, Xitang, Mount Putuo, Nanxun, Wuzhen

[Top Attractions] West Lake, Nanhu Lake in Jiaxing, Mount Putuo, South Sea Guanyin Statue, Nanxun, Wuzhen and more! [Comfortable Stay] Choose between 4-star and 5-star hotels! [Thoughtful Service] Dedicated custom vehicles and East China drivers with years of safe driving experience for a worry-free trip! [No Shopping Stops] Premium no-shopping group tour for a pure travel experience—one trip, memories for a lifetime! [Bonus] One bottle of branded mineral water per person per day!

★4.9(22)·26 travelers have joined

[Buddhist Kingdom Over the Sea 6 Days 5 Nights] Shanghai, Xuedou Mountain, Mount Putuo

[Buddhist Kingdom Over the Sea 6 Days 5 Nights] Shanghai, Xuedou Mountain, Mount Putuo

[Top Attractions] Chiang Kai-shek's Former Residence Scenic Area, Grand Buddha Scenic Area, one of the Four Sacred Buddhist Mountains and Bodhisattva Guanyin's sanctuary, Mount Putuo—the Buddhist Kingdom over the Sea, and more! [Comfortable Stay] Choose between 4-star and 5-star hotels! [Thoughtful Service] Dedicated custom vehicles and East China drivers with years of safe driving experience for a worry-free trip! [No Shopping Stops] Premium no-shopping group tour for a pure travel experience—one trip, memories for a lifetime! [Bonus] One bottle of branded mineral water per person per day!

★5(21)·21 travelers have joined

[Riding the Waves to Shengsi 6 Days 5 Nights] Zhoushan, Shengsi Islands, Nanxun, Shanghai

[Riding the Waves to Shengsi 6 Days 5 Nights] Zhoushan, Shengsi Islands, Nanxun, Shanghai

[Top Attractions] Shengsi Islands, Liuhe Chaoyang, Left Bank Road, Donghai Fishing Village, Jihu Village, Nanxun and more! [Comfortable Stay] Choose between 4-star and 5-star hotels! [Thoughtful Service] Custom vehicles and experienced East China drivers ensure a safe, worry-free trip! [No Shopping Stops] No-shopping tours for a pure travel experience—one trip, memories for a lifetime! [Bonus] One bottle of branded mineral water per person per day!

★5(20)·20 travelers have joined

[Peaceful Journey 2 Days 1 Night] Hangzhou, Mount Putuo

[Peaceful Journey 2 Days 1 Night] Hangzhou, Mount Putuo

[Top Attractions] Mount Putuo, Puji Temple, South Sea Guanyin and more [Thoughtful Service] Custom vehicles and experienced East China drivers ensure a safe, worry-free trip! [No Shopping Stops] A quality no-shopping group tour for a pure travel experience—one trip, memories for a lifetime! [Bonus] One bottle of branded mineral water per person per day!

★4.9(20)·20 travelers have joined

[Mount Putuo Blessing Tour 3 Days 2 Nights] Hangzhou, West Lake, Mount Putuo

[Mount Putuo Blessing Tour 3 Days 2 Nights] Hangzhou, West Lake, Mount Putuo

[Top Attractions] West Lake, Dadou Road Historic Block, Mount Putuo day tour, Zizhulin (Purple Bamboo Grove), South Sea Guanyin, Puji Temple, Nantang Old Street and more! [Comfortable Stay] Choose between 4-star and 5-star hotels! [Thoughtful Service] Custom vehicles and experienced East China drivers for a worry-free trip! [No Shopping Stops] No-shopping quality group tour for a pure travel experience. One trip, memories for a lifetime! [Bonus] One bottle of branded mineral water per person per day!

★4.9(18)·18 travelers have joined

[Chasing Waves at Nansha 3 Days 2 Nights] Ningbo, Zhujiajian Nansha, Mount Putuo

[Chasing Waves at Nansha 3 Days 2 Nights] Ningbo, Zhujiajian Nansha, Mount Putuo

[Top Attractions] Zhujiajian Nansha, Mount Putuo, Nantang Old Street and more! [Comfortable Stay] 4-star hotels to choose from! [Thoughtful Service] Custom vehicles and experienced East China drivers ensure a safe, worry-free trip! [No Shopping Stops] No-shopping tours for a pure travel experience—one trip, memories for a lifetime! [Bonus] One bottle of branded mineral water per person per day!

★5(22)·22 travelers have joined

ZhoushanShort videos

[Mount Putuo Prayer 3 Days 2 Nights] Skip the hassle and see Zhejiang's top attractions on this route — 2:33

[Mount Putuo Prayer 3 Days 2 Nights] Skip the hassle and see Zhejiang's top attractions on this route

Published: 105 days ago

[Off-the-beaten-path Gouqi Island 3 Days 2 Nights] A limited-time summer 3-day tour in Zhejiang to discover an East China Sea hidden gem — 2:29

[Off-the-beaten-path Gouqi Island 3 Days 2 Nights] A limited-time summer 3-day tour in Zhejiang to discover an East China Sea hidden gem

Published: 105 days ago

[Dongji Island Escape 2 Days 1 Night] Follow "The Continent" on a Zhoushan getaway — 2:12

[Dongji Island Escape 2 Days 1 Night] Follow "The Continent" on a Zhoushan getaway

Published: 103 days ago

[Island Hopping: 3 Days 2 Nights] A Zhejiang 3-day tour across three healing East China Sea islands — 2:33

[Island Hopping: 3 Days 2 Nights] A Zhejiang 3-day tour across three healing East China Sea islands

Published: 103 days ago

[Explore Dongji 3 Days 2 Nights] Chase the mainland's first sunrise! A slow-paced Zhoushan 3-day tour — 2:45

[Explore Dongji 3 Days 2 Nights] Chase the mainland's first sunrise! A slow-paced Zhoushan 3-day tour

Published: 105 days ago

Different ways to explore Zhoushan: unlock the varied charms of the East China Sea islands all in one place — 3:05

Different ways to explore Zhoushan: unlock the varied charms of the East China Sea islands all in one place

Published: 162 days ago

Zhoushan attractions travel guide | Perfect for first-time visitors, no letdowns — 3:34

Zhoushan attractions travel guide | Perfect for first-time visitors, no letdowns

Published: 165 days ago

Taste all of Zhoushan's food and experience the authentic fishing village flavors of the East China Sea — 3:12

Taste all of Zhoushan's food and experience the authentic fishing village flavors of the East China Sea

Published: 162 days ago

Classic 3-day tour route in Zhoushan: seascapes, temples, and fishing villages all in one trip

ZhoushanVisitor guide

Local weather

Dec - Feb

11°5°

Mar - May

18°9°

Jun - Aug

31°24°

Sep - Nov

23°15°

Time zone

China Standard Time

Currency

CNY

Official language

Mandarin

Best time to visit

Mar - MayMount Putuo Flower Festival

Sep - NovZhoushan International Sand Sculpture Festival

Jun - AugDaishan Sea-Listening Season

Dec - FebDongsha Ancient Fishing Town Intangible Cultural Heritage Parade

Suggested visit duration

3-5 days

FAQ

: Most ferries depart from Wugongzhi Wharf in Zhujiajian, Banshengdong Wharf in Shenjiamen, or Sanjiang Wharf. For Mount Putuo, Dongji Island, and the Shengsi Islands, follow the WeChat official accounts "Zhoushan Haixing Ferry" or "Shengsi Passenger Transport" to book tickets in advance. During peak season, book 3-5 days ahead, as walk-up tickets are hard to get. Services may be suspended in strong winds or heavy fog, so always check real-time notices before departure.
: May-June and September-October are ideal, with temperatures of 20-28°C and pleasant sea breezes—perfect for temple visits, island hopping, and seafood. You can swim in July-August, but expect crowds, higher hotel prices, frequent typhoons, and possible ferry cancellations. November-March is the off-season with fewer tourists and lower costs, but it's cold and windy, and some inter-island ferry services are reduced.
: If you only visit the three main temples (Puji Temple, Fayu Temple, and Huiji Temple) and the South Sea Guanyin statue, taking the island shuttle bus and cable car up Foding Mountain, you can barely finish in one day, but it will be rushed. If you also want to see the Purple Bamboo Grove, Fanyin Cave, and the Xitian Scenic Area, or if you're traveling with kids or seniors, staying overnight on the island and splitting the trip over two days is much more relaxed. There are plenty of guesthouses and hotels on the island, with good deals in the off-season. For temple visits, arrive before 7 AM to avoid the crowds.
: Yes. Blue tears usually appear from May to September, peaking between June and August. You need clear weather and suitable tides (around high tide) at night. Dongsha Beach and Nansha Beach in Zhujiajian, along with the waters around Dongji Island, offer the best chances. Spotting them takes patience, so consider joining local blue-tear-chasing groups or asking your guesthouse host for real-time updates. Remember to bring mosquito repellent, a flashlight, and a camera tripod.
: Only scenic shuttle buses operate on the island—there are no taxis, and private cars are not allowed. Renting an electric scooter isn't recommended, as they're expensive and restricted on many roads. Walking plus the shuttle bus is the easiest option. Bus fares range from ¥5 to ¥10, with routes covering the main temples and attractions. If you're fit, you can walk between sites, but the climb from Puji Temple to Huiji Temple is tiring. You can take the cable car up Foding Mountain instead (¥40 one way, ¥70 round trip).