Zhoushan

China · Zhejiang

Zhoushan

Island archipelago with Buddhist temples, sandy beaches, and fresh seafood.

Best for

Putuo MountainBeachesIsland hoppingSeafood

Recommended stay

3-4 days

Best season

Jun–Oct (beach activities, seafood)

Location

China, Zhejiang

Snapshot

City Snapshot

A city at a glance

6 dimensions · 1–5 scale

PandaLoco's read of six travel-relevant dimensions on a 1–5 scale, built from public datasets and our travel criteria.

It describes the city's profile. It is not a ranking of better or worse cities.

Basis: Public datasets and PandaLoco travel criteria

Overview

Zhoushan comprises 400+ islands. Visit Putuo Mountain’s temples, Zhujiajian’s sand sculptures, Dongji Island sunrises, and Gouqi Island’s villages.

Ideal Pace

3-4 days

Seasonal Window

Jun–Oct (beach activities, seafood)

Overview

Zhoushan offers sea-island scenery across 400 islands. Attractions include Zhujiajian sand sculptures, Shengsi beaches, and Buddhist Putuo Mountain.

Brief Guide

Zhoushan City is a unique tourist destination known for its beautiful sea-island scenery and fascinating island landscapes. It is a group of over 400 islands off the northern coast of Zhejiang province. Visitors can appreciate sand sculptures at Zhujiajian Island or swim at the beaches of the Shengsi Islands. On Dongji Island, you can witness the first ray of sunlight hitting the Chinese mainland. Putuo Mountain, known as the Buddhist Paradise on the Sea, is one of the four sacred mountains of Buddhism in China.

Getting There & Around

Zhoushan Putuoshan Airport (HSN) on Zhujiajian Island. Taxis and buses serve main sites. Ferry ports connect islands.

How to Get There

Zhoushan's transportation infrastructure is centered around its airport and passenger ports, serving as vital links for intercity travel.

  • Zhoushan Putuoshan Airport (HSN) is the primary aviation hub, located on Zhujiajian Island within Putuo District.
  • The airport features a terminal building and a runway, offering domestic flights to major Chinese cities.
  • The passenger ports, including Ningbo-Zhoushan port, are deepwater facilities handling cargo and passenger ships.
  • Most cruise ships dock at Port Zhoushan on the central-southern coast of Zhoushan Island.
  • Specific details on passenger terminal facilities and direct transportation links to the city are not provided, but the port is important for regional connectivity.

Local Transportation

Zhoushan offers a variety of local transportation options.

  • Taxis: Convenient and cost-effective, with metered fares starting from 10 yuan.
  • Buses: Serve the main sites of the city.
  • Public bikes & bike-sharing: Upgraded with lighter bikes and enhanced wheelbase and saddle for long-distance riding. Rent by swiping transportation cards or scanning QR codes.
  • Driving: Comprehensive road system connecting to nearby cities, ideal for self-driving. Car rental available at Zhoushan Airport and throughout the city.

Practical Information

Mandarin spoken. Use Alipay/WeChat. Humid subtropical climate, rainy. Warmest in August, coldest February. Cash accepted.

Local Language

Zhoushan, part of Zhejiang Province in China, predominantly speaks Mandarin, the official language of the country. While Mandarin is widely understood, the region's linguistic landscape is diverse, with various dialects influenced by its historical and cultural context.

  • Use translation apps or local interpretation services to overcome language barriers.
  • Communicate with non-verbal cues like gestures and facial expressions.
  • Learn basic Mandarin phrases to improve interactions with locals.

Local Apps

  • Alipay: A versatile and widely used app in China for making payments conveniently by scanning a QR code in shops and using for public transportation
  • WeChat: Essential for communication via messaging and also functions as a digital wallet, helpful for daily transactions and transport payments
  • Gaode Maps: The primary navigation app in China, offering the most accurate and up-to-date directions for travelers
  • Didi Chuxing: Similar to Uber, used extensively for ride-hailing in China, allowing seamless travel around cities
  • MetroMan: Useful for navigating subway systems in major Chinese cities, with detailed maps and route planning features

Internet and Communication

Mobile data packages for tourists in China are available through local carriers such as China Mobile and Unicom.

  • China Mobile: Prepaid data SIM cards with unlimited texts and calls within China, high-speed connections (including 5G), and no long-term contract required.
  • Unicom: SIM cards with data packs including unlimited music apps; no long-term contract required.

Public WiFi in China is widely available in places like airports, restaurants, coffee shops, and malls. However, connecting often requires a Chinese phone number for text verification, which can be a challenge for travelers without a local SIM card.

Global WiFi devices like Skyroam can be a convenient alternative, offering the ability to connect multiple devices and requiring no additional setup upon arrival in China.

Weather

Zhoushan has a humid subtropical climate with mild temperatures and significant rainfall throughout the year. There is no dry season, and the average yearly temperature is 17.76°C.

  • Pack layers as weather varies; August is the warmest month and February the coldest.
  • Bring waterproof clothing and shoes due to frequent rains, especially in June (the wettest month).
  • In summer, wear light, breathable clothing, hats, and sunscreen.
  • In winter, wear warm coats, gloves, and thermal attire.
  • Due to high humidity and potential typhoons from July to September, stay updated on weather conditions and take necessary precautions.

Currency and Payment

In Zhoushan, foreign tourists can use mobile payments, cash, and international credit cards. Mobile payments via Alipay are widely accepted, and visitors can link their international bank cards. Cash remains essential in less digitized areas, while international credit cards are accepted at major spots like Putuo Mountain Scenic Area.

  • Digital Payments: Mobile payments via Alipay and international cards are widely accepted. Foreign visitors can link cards to apps without a local bank account.
  • Cash: Cash is still essential, especially in less digitized areas or for small transactions.
  • Credit/Debit Cards: International credit cards are widely accepted, especially at Putuo Mountain Scenic Area, which offers foreign currency exchange and consultation services.
  • ATMs and Cash Withdrawals: Transaction fees may apply when using ATMs or foreign bank cards.
  • Fees: Check if digital payment platforms or credit cards involve additional fees.

Top Experiences

Explore Putuo Mountain temples, Zhujiajian beaches, Dongji Island sunrises, and Gouqi Island’s abandoned villages.

Must-try local experiences

  • Admire Putuo Mountain’s island scenery and peaceful atmosphere, enjoy the soft sandy beaches of Zhujiajian Scenic Area (sunbathe and feel the waves), and explore ancient temples to experience Buddhist tranquility, complete with morning bells and evening drums.
  • Discover Shenjiamen Fishing Port’s history, wander narrow alleyways to observe fishermen, and savor freshly caught seafood.
  • Experience Dongji Island fishing village life: join fishermen to cast and haul nets, taste your fresh catch, and visit the Putuo Yuminhua Fazhan Center to learn about fishermen’s life and art.
  • Enjoy water sports: sea fishing (rent a boat and head out) and sailing (feel the excitement of riding the waves).
  • Celebrate the Zhoushan International Sand Sculpture Festival, held annually on Zhujiajian Island, featuring impressive sculptures by artists from around the world.
  • Savor local seafood: try steamed pike crab or braised scallop fish, and visit Shenjiamen night stalls for a variety of fresh and delicious seafood.
  • Take a specialty seafood shopping tour: stroll Dinghai Old Town’s old street market for handicrafts and shops selling dried scallops, sea cucumbers, and other seafood products—ideal souvenirs.
  • Capture the island atmosphere: evening sunset views and photos at Jihu Beach (Shengsi Islands) or Nansha Beach (Zhujiajian), and photograph fishing harbors with fishermen and boats.

Food Highlights

Iron Plate Razor Clam, Gazami Crab Rice Cake, Gazami Crab, and Zhoushan Seafood Noodles highlight local seafood.

Zhoushan's cuisine showcases the flavors of the sea, particularly in seafood-centric dishes like mantis shrimp and razor clams. Using unique cooking techniques like teppanyaki or stir-frying, these dishes offer a beautifully balanced salty-sweet flavor and tender texture that leaves a lasting impression.

Iron Plate Razor Clam

Iron Plate Razor Clam

The preparation of iron plate razor clams involves a distinctive method. Initially, the iron plate is covered evenly with salt and then heated. Subsequently, razor clams are embedded into the refined salt, which facilitates the transfer of heat to the clams. This technique helps the clams retain a significant amount of moisture, resulting in a succulent and fresh flavor.

Gazami Crab Rice Cake

Gazami Crab Rice Cake

The combination of succulent Gazami crab and chewy rice cake offers a unique and delightful texture. This dish, beloved for its sweet and savory flavors, is expertly seasoned with yellow wine and white sugar, while finely chopped green onions add a burst of fragrance, providing a pleasant surprise with every bite.

Gazami Crab

Gazami Crab

The Gazami crab has a tough shell and a dark green back. It is predominantly prepared by steaming, which best highlights its qualities. The ideal specimens are plump, offering tender, succulent meat that tantalizes the palate with its rich and lasting flavor.

Zhoushan Seafood Noodles

Zhoushan Seafood Noodles

Zhoushan seafood noodles, a traditional favorite of the locals, feature shrimp and razor clams as key ingredients. The dish is known for its soft noodles and fresh, flavorful broth, enriched by a hearty soup base and succulent seafood that tantalizes the taste buds.

Best Time to Visit

Best from June to October for beach activities. October also offers Xiangshan Seafood Festival.

The best time to visit Zhoushan is from June to October. The weather is ideal for beach activities and sightseeing during this period. This period provides a comfortable climate for tourists. Additionally, October is recommended for seafood lovers, as it coincides with the Xiangshan Seafood Festival, offering fresh and delicious local seafood.

Attraction Highlights

Putuo Mountain Scenic Area, Zhujiajian Scenic Area, Dongji Island Scenic Area, and Impression Putuo performance.

Putuo Mountain Scenic Area

Putuo Mountain Scenic Area

普陀山风景区

Putuo Mountain, China’s only sacred Buddhist mountain by the sea, blends stunning coastal scenery with deep-rooted Buddhist heritage. Known as the 'Heaven of the Sea and Kingdom of the Buddhist,' it features sandy beaches like Qianbusha and Baibusha, plus fresh seafood and seaside hotels.

1-3 days
38 CNY
Zhujiajian Scenic Area

Zhujiajian Scenic Area

朱家尖风景区

Zhujiajian Scenic Area in the Zhoushan Archipelago is renowned for its fine sand beaches and hosts the International Sand Sculpture Festival each September. Explore Black Pebble Beach, Guanyin Culture Pavilion, Southern Beach, and Mountain of the Big Blue. Eastern Beach offers stunning sunrises, while Southern Beach buzzes with water activities.

1-2 days
20 CNY
Dongji Island

Dongji Island

东极岛风景区

Dongji Island, on the eastern side of the Zhoushan Archipelago, is a serene fishing destination ideal for sunrise viewing, seafood, and sea fishing. Comprising four inhabited isles, it includes Miaozihu, the main island; Qingbang, known as the 'Sea Potala Palace'; and Dongfushan, famed for China's first ocean sunrise.

2-3 days
Free
Impression Putuo Performance

Impression Putuo Performance

《印象普陀》演出

Impression Putuo is a live performance set in Zhujiajian’s Guanyin Cultural Garden, a key part of the Putuo Mountain Guanyin Dojo. It blends local geography, scenes, sound, and light with performances by local youth, creating an authentic visual feast and a serene, memorable experience.

1-2 hours
199 CNY
Gouqi Island

Gouqi Island

枸杞岛

Gouqi Island, the second largest in the Shengsi archipelago, lies near Zhoushan and Shanghai. Visitors can stroll sandy beaches, hike to ocean vistas, and admire dramatic cliffs. The island offers a genuine fishing village atmosphere, fresh seafood including local mussels, and sunset views from Xiao Xi Tian.

1-2 days
Free

FAQ

What's the most popular attractions in Zhoushan?
The most popular attractions in Zhoushan include Putuo Mountain Scenic Area, Impression Putuo Performance, and Nansha.
Last updated 10/9/2026 · published