Must-Visit Attractions in Zhejiang — Dongji Island

Introduction to Dongji Island Dongji Island is located in Dongji Town, Putuo District, Zhoushan City, Zhejiang Province. It is the easternmost inhabited island group in China's seas, consisting of 28 islands and 108 reefs including Miaozihu Island, Dongfushan Island, and Qingbang Island. It is about 45 kilometers from Shenjiamen Fishing Port. The waters here are clear, and the islands are rugged, combining rustic fishing village charm with polar-like scenery. It became famous as a filming location for the movie "The Continent" and is known as the "Lijiang on the Sea." Each main island has its own unique features: Miaozihu Island serves as the administrative center and is well developed; Dongfushan Island is the earliest place in China to greet the dawn, ideal for hiking and stargazing; Qingbang Island is famous for its "Potala Palace on the Sea" stone houses and pristine fishing village. The best travel season is from May to October, with pleasant weather and the chance to witness the bioluminescent sea in summer. Recommended Information Must-See Attractions Miaozihu Island Address: Dongji Town, Putuo District, Zhoushan City Why Visit: The main island of Dongji, filming location of "The Continent," featuring popular spots like the internet-famous lighthouse and the Caibogong statue. The island road is perfect for cycling or hiking, offering a blend of fishing village life and sea views. Dongfushan Island · New Century’s First Dawn Observation Point Address: Dongfushan Island, Dongji Town, Putuo District, Zhoushan City Why Visit: The earliest place on mainland China to see the sunrise. Climb to the top at 4 a.m. to witness the breathtaking sight of the sun rising from the sea horizon. Nearby hiking routes include Elephant Trunk Peak and Dashuwan Stone House Cluster. Qingbang Island · Potala Palace on the Sea Address: Qingbang Island, Dongji Town, Putuo District, Zhoushan City Why Visit: Stone houses built on the hillside, stacked like the Potala Palace. Two-thirds of the area is uninhabited, with abandoned stone houses covered in greenery. Bioluminescent sea may appear at night in July and August. Dongfushan Island · Elephant Trunk Peak Address: Dongfushan Island, Dongji Town, Putuo District, Zhoushan City Why Visit: A reef cliff shaped like a giant elephant drinking water. From the top, you can overlook the glassy sea and wind turbine clusters. It is a landmark for island hiking. Miaozihu Island · Dongji Pavilion Address: Miaozihu Island, Dongji Town, Putuo District, Zhoushan City Why Visit: The highest point on the island with a wide view, offering 360° sea and fishing village panoramas. The sunset paints the sky with colorful clouds, perfect for photography. Qingbang Island · Child Cave Address: Qingbang Island, Dongji Town, Putuo District, Zhoushan City Why Visit: A hidden sea erosion cave where you can listen to the waves inside. The surrounding abandoned fishing village is full of mystery, ideal for adventure and vintage-style photo shoots. Special Experiences Island Hiking: Dongfushan Island takes about 4 hours to hike, passing through stone house clusters, cliffs, and greenery, experiencing the pristine island ecology; Bioluminescent Sea Watching: In July and August, blue-green glowing sea waves may appear at night on Qingbang and Dongfushan Islands. Avoid areas with light pollution. Transportation Tips External Transport: Take a ferry from Banshengdong Pier in Shenjiamen to Miaozihu Island (about 2 hours). Ticket prices are 100 RMB for lower deck, 130 RMB for middle deck, and 150 RMB for upper deck. Tickets must be purchased in advance via the "Zhoushan Haixing Ferry" WeChat public account (book 7 days ahead during peak season); Inter-Island Transport: From Miaozihu Island, transfer to the "Dongfu Ferry" to Dongfushan Island (30 RMB) or Qingbang Island (20 RMB). Limited schedules; cash payment recommended for tickets; On-Island Transport: Sightseeing cars can be rented on Miaozihu Island (80 RMB per round). Dongfushan and Qingbang Islands require walking or hiking. Accommodation Recommendations Miaozihu Island: Recommended "Yiyu Homestay," sea view rooms with terraces, close to the pier and food stalls, about 500 RMB per person in peak season; Dongfushan Island: "Seabreeze Fisherman’s Inn," 5-minute walk to the pier, balcony with lighthouse sunset views, about 400 RMB per person; Qingbang Island: "Fanyu Homestay," rooms with sunrise views, excellent for an authentic experience, about 350 RMB per person. Notes Ticket Booking: Ferry tickets are tight during peak season (July-August). Round-trip tickets must be booked in advance through official channels. Inter-island transfer tickets are recommended to be purchased in cash; Seasickness Preparation: The journey takes 2 hours. Those prone to seasickness should take medication in advance and choose middle or lower decks to reduce motion; Gear Suggestions: Non-slip shoes, sun protection, windbreaker, flashlight (for night stargazing/bioluminescent sea); Environmental Tips: Do not litter. Avoid using strong flashlights in bioluminescent sea areas to protect marine ecology. Dongji Island is an excellent choice to escape the hustle and bustle and embrace nature. Whether chasing light, hiking, or enjoying seafood, you can experience the unique charm of "island life, micro-city, slow living."