Three Days in Zhoushan Changed My Perspective on Spending

During my trip to Zhoushan, I discovered that many seafood stalls there use deceptive practices! Some dishonest vendors manipulate the weight when weighing seafood and hide extra charges in processing fees. If you don't ask about prices in advance and check carefully, you can easily get overcharged. Fortunately, I did thorough research before going. For friends who haven't been to Zhoushan before, this guide will definitely help you, covering popular attractions and practical information. 🗼How to Get to Zhoushan ①Fly directly to Ningbo Lishe International Airport✈️. The waiting hall has complete facilities. While waiting, you can browse souvenir shops and taste Ningbo tangyuan to get an early taste of Zhejiang flavors. Take a bus from the airport to Zhoushan. The journey is smooth - remember to book tickets in advance for a hassle-free trip. If there are no direct flights, it's also convenient to transfer from nearby Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport and take a bus to Zhoushan. ②Train/High-speed Rail: First arrive at Ningbo Station, where transfers are convenient. Take a bus to Zhoushan after exiting the station. There are many bus services available to reach various parts of Zhoushan. The main island of Zhoushan currently has no direct rail access. Travel to popular attractions is by road - remember to book tickets in advance during peak season. 🗼Accommodation Guide 🧸【Zhoushan Main Island (Dinghai and Putuo Urban Areas)】 Various accommodation options from star-rated hotels to budget hotels. The urban area is bustling, close to shopping centers and food streets. At night, the lights are brilliant. Take a stroll along the coastal boulevard to enjoy sea views. This is the perfect choice for first-time visitors to adjust to the environment and schedule. Areas near Shenjiamen Fishing Port offer one-stop convenience for dining, entertainment, accommodation, and transportation. 🧸【Near Mount Putuo Scenic Area】 Perfect choice for immersing yourself in Buddhist culture and island scenery. Many nearby guesthouses and hotels offer views of Mount Putuo. In the morning, open your window to sea breezes and Buddhist chants. Fall asleep to the sound of waves at night. However, advance booking is necessary during peak season, and prices may fluctuate. 🧸【Near Dongji Island Scenic Area】 A must-visit for those seeking a quiet island getaway far from the bustle. Accommodation is mainly fishermen's guesthouses close to the sea. Open your window to blue waters and golden beaches. Convenient for sightseeing. Return to your room and fall asleep to sea breezes and waves - like a paradise. Though accommodations are relatively basic, it's perfect for travelers who prioritize experience over luxury. 🗼Popular Attractions 🗳Mount Putuo: In April, Mount Putuo is full of spring vitality with ancient temple bells ringing. Ancient temples like Puji Temple and Fayu Temple are bustling with worshippers. Walk among the temples to experience the solemnity and tranquility of Buddhist culture. Baibushaand Qianbushahave fine sand and clear water, perfect for beach activities. Climb Foding Mountain for a panoramic view of Mount Putuo where sea meets sky - breathtakingly beautiful. 🗳Dongji Island: This is the filming location for the movie "No More Reunions." In April, the island grows lush with picturesque fishing villages. Walk around the island to enjoy unbeatable sea views and rich fishing village culture. Wait at the sunrise viewing platform for a stunning sunrise, watching the sun slowly rise from the horizon, painting the sky in brilliant colors. 🗳Zhujiajian: The sand at Nansha Scenic Area is fine and perfect for various beach activities in April, like beach volleyball and sand sculpture. In Daqingshan National Park, mountains meet the sea. Drive or cycle on the ring road with lush mountains on one side and vast ocean on the other - a picturesque scene. 🗳Shenjiamen Fishing Port: The fishing port sparkles at night, with fishing boats' lights blending with city lights. Stroll along the dock to view the moored fishing boats and enjoy fresh seafood at nearby stalls, experiencing Zhoushan's rich local atmosphere. 🗳Popular Food 🔖 Zhoushan Hairtail: This is Zhoushan's signature dish. The meat is tender without any fishy smell, delicious when steamed. One bite is full of Zhoushan flavor😍. You can easily find authentic versions in Zhoushan's seafood markets and restaurants. 🔖 Crab Fried Rice Cake: Made with plump swimming crabs and soft rice cakes, the crab meat is tender, and the rice cakes absorb the crab's umami. Rich in flavor, this local specialty can be found in local restaurants. 🔖 Dried Yellow Croaker with Braised Pork: Dried yellow croaker is preserved and sun-dried, then braised with pork belly. The fish is salty and fragrant, while the pork is rich but not greasy. They complement each other perfectly and are a staple on Zhoushan dining tables. 🔖 Seafood Noodles: Topped with fresh shrimp, crab, shellfish, and other seafood, paired with chewy noodles in a savory broth. One bowl warms your stomach and satisfies your appetite. Available at street-side noodle shops. In conclusion, careful planning before visiting Zhoushan is essential, considering seafood consumption traps, transportation, and accommodation. This way, you can avoid pitfalls and fully enjoy Zhoushan's unique charm, creating wonderful travel memories.