Back from Zhoushan, and my concept of spending is shattered.
Recommended Attractions
• Mount Putuo Scenic Area: One of the four sacred Buddhist mountains in China, it is the bodhimanda of Guanyin in the "Buddhist Kingdom on the Sea". There are many temples and cultural relics, such as Puji Temple, Fayu Temple, and Huiji Temple, where you can experience a rich Buddhist atmosphere.
• Zhujiajian Scenic Area: A seaside resort with miles of golden sandy beaches, such as Nansha Beach and Dongsha Beach. Here, you can play in the sand, enjoy the waves, experience water sports, and visit the famous Sand Sculpture Art Plaza.
• Dongji Island Scenic Area: The filming location of the movie "The Continent", where you can experience the local fishing culture, admire the magnificent sunrise at the easternmost point of China, and explore the unique features of Miaozihu Island, Qingbang Island, and Dongfushan Island.
• Taohua Island Scenic Area: The residence of Huang Yaoshi, the "Eastern Heretic" from Jin Yong's novels. Famous for being the filming location of "The Legend of the Condor Heroes" and "Demi-Gods and Semi-Devils", it consists of six scenic areas, including Taohuayu, Tawan Golden Beach, Anqifeng Peak, and Dafo Rock.
• Gouqi Island: Featuring the fine sands of Dawang Beach, you can climb mountains for sea views, see cliffside reefs, experience the fishing village atmosphere, and savor fresh seafood. Shengshan Island, connected to Gouqi Island by a bridge, has the Dongya Cliff, perfect for watching the sunrise over the East China Sea.
• Dinghai Ancient City: The only maritime cultural city in China. The ancient city has numerous historical sites and unique architectural styles, allowing you to experience the charm and culture of the Ming and Qing dynasties.
Accommodation Options
• Donggang Area: Across a bridge from Zhujiajian, it offers convenient transportation, relatively low accommodation costs, and a variety of nearby dining options.
• Shenjiamen: The old city area, with affordable accommodation, suitable for travelers without cars, but with limited parking.
• Near Mount Putuo: Options like Putuoshan Huazhu Luxury Hotel · Zhuxiangju and Putuoshan Baiyuan Hotel offer a beautiful environment, a Zen-like atmosphere, and easy access to Mount Putuo Scenic Area.
• Near Zhujiajian: Options like The Westin Zhujiajian Resort, Zhoushan and Zhoushan Zhuting Fanshe Resort Hotel offer direct access to the beach, comprehensive facilities, and are suitable for family trips.
Food Recommendations
• Seafood: Zhoushan is rich in seafood resources. Local specialties include Scallions and Butter Crab, Salt and Pepper Tofu Fish, Winter Melon and Conch Soup, Braised Pomfret, and Preserved Mustard and Clam Soup. You can enjoy these at Shenjiamen Seafood Night Market and Gaojiazhuang Seafood Supermarket Restaurant.
• Local Snacks: Seafood noodles are Zhoushan's signature snack, with noodles served with various fresh seafood in a rich broth. There's also fried rice cakes, soft and glutinous, stir-fried with seafood or vegetables. Mount Putuo's vegetarian cuisine is also worth trying, with fresh ingredients and exquisite preparation.
Transportation Guide
• External Transportation: You can fly directly to Mount Putuo Airport; take a bus from Ningbo to Zhoushan; or take the high-speed train from Suzhou Station to Shanghai Hongqiao Passenger Transport Station, transfer to the Shengsi Land and Water Transportation Line, and then take a boat from Shenjiawan Passenger Terminal to the Shengsi Islands.
• Internal Transportation: Transportation on Zhujiajian Island is convenient, with taxis and buses available. Ferries are required to reach islands like Dongji Island and Gouqi Island.