A Hidden Gem in the East China Sea: The Emerald Islands of Zhoushan

Zhoushan, known as the "Buddhist Kingdom on the Sea" and the "Fishing Port City," is China's only prefecture-level city made up of islands. With 1,390 islands, it offers the Zen tranquility of Putuoshan, the pristine beauty of Dongji Island, and the artistic charm of the Shengsi Archipelago. Come here to see the bluest sea, eat the freshest fish, and live like an islander for a few days! --- 📅 Best Time to Visit - May-October: Ideal for island hopping, with the bluest waters. July-August is perfect for swimming (but crowded due to summer vacation). - November-April: Off-season with fewer tourists, suitable for peaceful Buddhist pilgrimages (Putuoshan) and enjoying seafood. However, some islands have reduced ferry services. - Special Seasons: - May: Before the fishing ban, seafood is plentiful and affordable. - September-October: The start of fishing season, with boats full of swimming crabs, hairtail, and yellow croaker! --- 🏝️ Must-Visit Islands 1. Putuoshan (5A Scenic Spot) - Tags: Sacred place of Guanyin, one of China's four sacred Buddhist mountains. - Must-sees: - Puji Temple: The main temple, with the strongest incense. - Nanhai Guanyin Statue: A 33-meter-high golden statue facing the sea. - Fayu Temple on Foding Mountain: Climb 1,088 steps or take the cable car to the top. - Tips: - Tickets are 160 CNY + 60 CNY for round-trip ferry. Staying overnight is recommended (fewer crowds in the early morning). - Wear plain clothes and avoid loud conversations. 2. Dongji Island (Filming location of *The Continent*) - Composition: Miaozihu (main island), Dongfushan (easternmost point), and Qingbang Island (known as the "Potala Palace on the Sea"). - Highlights: - Dongfushan Island: China's easternmost inhabited island, perfect for watching the first sunrise. - Miaozihu Island: Red and white lighthouse, and a round-the-island electric car tour (88 CNY/person). - Blue Tears (May-August): The sea glows with fluorescence at night, a truly magical sight! - Tips: Ferry tickets are hard to get, so booking a homestay + ferry ticket package in advance is recommended. 3. Shengsi Archipelago (Artistic and Refreshing) - Recommended Islands: - Gouqi Island: Uninhabited villages with lush greenery and offshore farms. - Huaniao Island: Blue Tears viewing spot and lighthouse sunsets. - Shengshan Island: The East Cliff, the most spectacular cliff in the East China Sea. - Activities: Rent an electric scooter to explore the islands and enjoy mussels (only 10 CNY/500g during peak season!). 4. Zhujiajian (Next to Zhoushan Island) - Highlights: Beaches and easy to drive around, perfect for family trips. - Must-sees: - Daqingshan Island Ring Road: A scenic coastal drive. - Nansha Beach: Fine sand, with sand sculpture exhibitions in summer. - Guanyin Fajie: A stunning Buddhist cultural park built at a cost of billions. --- 🍜 Zhoushan Food Recommendations "No seafood, no Zhoushan" - this is a foodie's paradise! Must-try List: - Seafood Noodles: Shenjiamen's "Feizhu Noodle Shop" and Donggang's "A Bao Noodle Restaurant." - Red Cream Crabs: Raw marinated swimming crab, salty and delicious! - Grilled Yellow Croaker with Pork Belly: A Zhoushan specialty, a perfect combination of dried yellow croaker and pork belly. - Hairtail Rice: A local favorite, with hairtail oil seeping into the rice. - Seafood Stalls: Shenjiamen Night Market (slightly pricey but great atmosphere), or buy your own seafood at the market and have it cooked (more affordable). Souvenirs: - Dried Seafood: Dried eel, dried shrimp, and dried fish fillets (available at Shenjiamen International Aquatic Products City). - Guanyin Cakes: A Putuoshan specialty, sweet sesame-filled pastries. --- 💡 Travel Tips 1. Sun protection! Sun protection! The islands have strong UV rays, so sunglasses, hats, and SPF 50+ sunscreen are essential. 2. Cash: Some smaller islands have poor cell service, so cash may be needed for ferry tickets and homestay deposits. 3. Mosquito Repellent: Bring mosquito repellent, as there are many mosquitoes on the islands in summer. 4. Fishing Ban (May-August): Seafood prices are slightly higher, but farmed seafood (mussels, razor clams) is still affordable. 5. Pet-friendly: Some islands allow dogs (such as Zhujiajian). Inquire with your homestay in advance. --- Zhoushan is a city that requires a slower pace. Choose an island, stay for a few days, chase the sea during the day, and count the stars at night. This is the right way to experience Zhoushan.