Zhoushan, located in the northeastern part of Zhejiang Province, is China's only prefecture-level city composed of islands, with 2,085 islands. It has a subtropical monsoon climate, warm in winter and cool in summer, mild and humid, with fresh air, earning it the nickname 'Garden on the Sea'.
Zhoushan has a long history, with human activity dating back 5,000 years. During the Spring and Autumn period, it belonged to the Yue state. In the 26th year of the Kaiyuan era of the Tang Dynasty (738 AD), Wengshan County was established. After various changes, Zhoushan officially became a prefecture-level city in 1987. Historically, it was an important node on the Maritime Silk Road.
Zhoushan's culture is centered on marine culture, featuring the famous Guanyin belief and fishing port customs. Its cuisine is mainly seafood, such as Zhoushan hairtail, swimming crab, and large yellow croaker, prepared to preserve the original flavor. Additionally, intangible cultural heritages like Zhoushan Fisherman's Painting and Zhoushan Gongs and Drums are rich and colorful.
Modern Zhoushan is a national-level new area, home to the Zhoushan Port Comprehensive Bonded Zone, and an important base for China's shipbuilding and marine industries. Tourism is booming, with attractions like Mount Putuo and Zhujiajian renowned far and wide. The cross-sea bridge connects it to the mainland, providing convenient transportation.
The best time to visit 舟山 is Best from May to October.
The best travel season in Zhoushan is from May to October, when the weather is pleasant, the sea is warm, suitable for seaside activities and island sightseeing.
From June to September is the fishing moratorium, seafood prices may be higher, but tourists can still enjoy frozen seafood. Seafood is most abundant after the fishing ban lifts in September.
July and August are peak tourist season, with many visitors, so book in advance. Mount Putuo and other places have strong incense offerings, especially during Guanyin's birthday in lunar February, June, and September.
In 738 AD, the 26th year of Kaiyuan in Tang Dynasty, Wengshan County was established on the Zhoushan Islands, marking the beginning of Zhoushan's administrative history.
In January 1987, with the approval of the State Council, Zhoushan Prefecture was abolished and prefecture-level Zhoushan City was established.
Recommended places to visit
One of the four sacred Buddhist mountains in China, the bodhimanda of Guanyin, known for its spectacular sea and mountain scenery and Buddhist culture. Main attractions include Puji Temple, Fayu Temple, Huiji Temple, and the Nanhai Guanyin Statue.
Famous for its beaches and natural scenery, with attractions like Ten-mile Golden Sand, Daqingshan National Park, and Wushi Tang. An ideal place for seaside holidays and outdoor activities.
Explore rich intangible cultural heritage and traditional crafts
Zhoushan Gongs and Drums is a traditional folk music popular in the Zhoushan Islands, featuring gongs and drums accompanied by suona and other instruments, majestic and often used in festivals and temple fairs.
Zhoushan Fishermen's Paintings are folk paintings created by fishermen, with bright colors and exaggerated compositions, depicting marine life and fishing village customs, possessing unique artistic charm.
Must-know transportation for exploring the city
Located on Zhujiajian Island, with flights to major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Xiamen. Shuttle bus to Putuoshan ferry terminal.
Varies by route
Currently no railway in Zhoushan, but the Ningbo-Zhoushan Railway is under construction, expected to open in 2028. Currently take high-speed rail to Ningbo Station, then transfer to bus or ferry.
Bus from Ningbo to Zhoushan about 60 RMB
Buses and ferries connect the main island and major islands. Fast boats and passenger ships serve Zhujiajian, Putuoshan, Taohua Island, etc. Bus fare starts from 2 RMB, ferry fare depends on distance.
Bus from 2 RMB, ferry 15-100 RMB
Taste the most authentic and popular local specialties
Zhoushan hairtail is famous for its tender meat and delicious taste, one of the most representative seafood in Zhoushan. Usually steamed or braised.
Zhoushan swimming crab has plump meat and rich roe, a must-try in autumn. Common preparations include steaming, scallion oil, and stir-fry with rice cakes.
In June 2011, the State Council approved the establishment of Zhejiang Zhoushan Archipelago New Area, a state-level new area.
The residence of Huang Yaoshi in Jin Yong's novel 'The Legend of the Condor Heroes', featuring martial arts culture. Attractions include Taohua Stockade and Shooting Condor City.
National scenic area consisting of 404 islands, known for blue sea, golden sand, and fishing port customs. Main attractions include Jihu Beach and Liujingtan.
The easternmost inhabited island in China, famous for pristine scenery and sunrise. One of the filming locations for the movie 'The Continent'.
Zhoushan large yellow croaker has tender meat, a famous product of the East China Sea. Traditional dishes include pickled vegetable soup with yellow croaker and steamed.
Noodles topped with fresh seafood, the broth is delicious and the ingredients are rich, including shrimp, crab, shellfish, etc.
A special vegetarian cake from Mount Putuo, made from flour, sugar, and vegetable oil, available in sweet and savory flavors, a blessing souvenir.