Stop just thinking about Sanya! Zhoushan is the ultimate summer island getaway destination

Zhoushan, this coastal city in Zhejiang, is like a pearl left on the shores of the East China Sea. With its enchanting sea views, rich culinary delights, and unique cultural charm, it's the perfect choice for a summer island vacation. Here’s a super-detailed Zhoushan travel guide to help you explore this hidden gem! Must-Visit Attractions • **Mount Putuo**: As one of China's Four Sacred Buddhist Mountains, this is the sacred site of Guanyin (the Goddess of Mercy) and boasts profound Buddhist heritage. The mountain is dotted with ancient temples, incense smoke, and devoted pilgrims. Climb Mount Putuo and gaze at the vast sea—your worries will seem to drift away with the ocean breeze. • **Dongji Island**: The filming location of Han Han’s movie *The Continent*, this small island has gained fame for its crystal-clear waters, quaint fishing villages, and breathtaking sunrises and sunsets—a favorite among artistic souls. Stroll through Dongji Island’s alleys, feeling the gentle sea breeze, as if time slows down. • **Gouqi Island**: Located in the eastern part of the Shengsi Islands, Gouqi is the second-largest island after Sijiao. It’s relatively close to both Zhoushan and Shanghai, making it ideal for family vacations. Here, you can walk along sandy beaches, hike to admire sea views and cliffs, experience fishing village culture, and savor the island’s famous fresh seafood. • **Zhujiajian**: Known for its fine sandy beaches and spectacular sea views, Zhujiajian is the fifth-largest island in the Zhoushan Archipelago, renowned as the "Hometown of Sand Sculptures" and a "Paradise for Vacations." The vast Daqing Mountain Forest Park is perfect for cycling and sightseeing. The winding coastal road offers panoramic views of blue skies, emerald seas, green mountains, and golden sands—a feast for the eyes. Food Recommendations • **Seafood**: As a coastal city, Zhoushan naturally excels in seafood. Shenjiamen Fishing Port, China’s largest natural fishing harbor, offers not only abundant seafood but also a unique fishing culture, immersing you in the port’s bustling energy. Steamed grouper, poached shrimp, salt-and-pepper mantis shrimp, garlic oysters—each dish is fresh and flavorful, a true delight for foodies. • **Local Snacks**: Beyond seafood, Zhoushan has many must-try snacks. Hewaimian Restaurant’s double-fried noodles are hearty and delicious; Shenjiamen’s pan-fried buns have crispy skins and juicy fillings; Gongpo cakes, paired with special sauces, are aromatic; and Jianmin Bakery’s soft, sweet pastries are beloved by locals. Accommodation Options • **Seaview Hotels**: For the best ocean views, seaview hotels are unbeatable. **Zhoushan Poly Junya Kaiyuan Senbo Resort** boasts a prime location, close to Xiling East, Nansha Scenic Area, Mount Putuo’s Wugongzhi Pier, and Daqing Mountain, with convenient transport links within a 3-hour travel radius from Jiangsu, Zhejiang, and Shanghai. The hotel offers various room types, a rich breakfast spread, and fun activities like RC workshops, remote-controlled sand-digging cars, arcade games, and table football. The indoor water park, open year-round with temperature control, is a hit with families and young travelers. • **B&Bs**: For a taste of local life, B&Bs are ideal. On Dongji and Gouqi Islands, you’ll find charming seaside B&Bs, many with ocean views right from your window. Some even offer seafood cooking services, letting you enjoy your own fresh catch. Transportation Guide • **Getting There**: Fly directly to Zhoushan Putuo Airport or arrive in Ningbo first, then take a bus to Zhoushan. If time allows, take a high-speed train to Ningbo and transfer by bus. • **Getting Around**: Zhoushan Island has convenient public buses and taxis. To visit other islands, take a ferry. Renting an e-bike is a great way to explore, allowing you to stop and admire the scenery anytime. Itinerary Suggestions • **3-Day Trip**: - **Day 1**: Arrive in Zhoushan, head to Zhujiajian to explore Nansha Scenic Area and sand sculptures; cycle along Daqing Mountain’s coastal road in the afternoon; enjoy a seafood feast in Zhujiajian at night. - **Day 2**: Take a ferry to Dongji Island, check in, stroll along the beach for sunset; unwind at a seaside bar in the evening. - **Day 3**: Wake early for sunrise, then visit other spots like Miaozi Lake or Qingbang Island; return to Zhoushan by ferry in the afternoon. • **5-Day Trip**: - **Day 1**: Arrive in Zhoushan, check in, then visit Shenjiamen Fishing Port to explore the seafood market and dine. - **Day 2**: Spend the day at Mount Putuo, visiting Puji Temple, Fayu Temple, and Huiji Temple to soak in Buddhist culture. - **Day 3**: Travel to Zhujiajian for Daqing Mountain National Park and a cycling adventure; hit Dongsha Beach for swimming and surfing in the afternoon. - **Day 4**: Ferry to Gouqi Island, play at Dawang Village Beach, try fishing; watch sunset at "Little Xitian." - **Day 5**: Visit "Mountain and Sea Wonders" for ocean views, then pack up and return to Zhoushan for departure.