Overview
The Zhoushan Archipelago is a group of more than 1,300 islands scattered off the northeastern coast of Zhejiang Province in eastern China, sitting at the mouth of Hangzhou Bay. Administratively, it forms Zhoushan City — the only prefecture-level city in China composed entirely of islands. With a combined land area of roughly 1,400 square kilometres, it is the country's largest archipelago by island count.
Zhoushan has historically been one of China's most productive fishing grounds, and the local identity remains closely tied to the sea. The port city of Shenjiamen on Putuo Island is considered one of the busiest fishing harbours in Asia. Beyond fishing, the archipelago draws pilgrims and tourists alike to Putuoshan, a sacred Buddhist mountain island regarded as the bodhimanda — the sacred site — of Guanyin, the Bodhisattva of Compassion.
The islands vary considerably in character: some are urbanised and industrial, others are quietly rural with sandy beaches, weathered fishing villages, and dramatic cliff scenery. Tourism infrastructure on the main islands is well developed by Chinese domestic standards, though English-language signage and services are limited outside of major pilgrimage sites.
Note on the prompt's reference to 'South Korea (state)': Zhoushan Archipelago is located entirely within the People's Republic of China (Zhejiang Province). South Korea is a separate sovereign nation and does not govern or administer any part of this archipelago. This guide covers the Chinese destination only.
Before You Go
Visas
Zhoushan is part of mainland China. Most foreign nationals require a visa to enter. China's visa policies change periodically, and exemptions or on-arrival schemes may apply to citizens of certain countries under specific conditions. Do not rely on secondhand information. Check TravelerPulse's Visas section for the latest guidance and consult China's official immigration authority (the National Immigration Administration of China, imigresen.mps.gov.cn or your nearest Chinese embassy or consulate) well before travel.
Health and Practical Prep
- A basic Chinese phrasebook or translation app (downloaded for offline use) is highly recommended, as English is not widely spoken outside tourist-oriented businesses.
- The archipelago has a humid subtropical climate. Summers (July–August) are hot and humid, and the region lies in a typhoon path — check weather forecasts closely if travelling July through September.
- Travel insurance that covers medical evacuation is advisable, as serious medical needs may require transfer to hospitals in Ningbo or Shanghai.
- Mobile payment platforms (Alipay and WeChat Pay) dominate transactions on the islands; carry some cash as a backup, since international cards are not universally accepted.
Connectivity
Foreign visitors should be aware that China's internet is subject to restrictions. Many commonly used Western apps and websites are inaccessible without a VPN. Research and set up any tools you may need before you arrive in China.
Getting There
By Air
Zhoushan Putuoshan Airport (PZI) is the main gateway, with domestic flights connecting to Shanghai, Beijing, Guangzhou, and a number of other Chinese cities. The airport does not currently serve major international routes, so most international visitors fly into Shanghai Pudong (PVG) or Ningbo Lishe (NGB) and continue overland or by sea.
By Ferry and Fast Boat
Sea connections are a practical and scenic option. Regular ferry and high-speed passenger boat services operate between Zhoushan's various islands and ports in Ningbo, Shanghai, and Hangzhou. Journey times and schedules vary by route and season; verify current timetables locally or through official port ticketing offices, as services adjust based on weather and demand.
By Road and Bridge
The Hangzhou Bay area road network connects Zhoushan to the mainland via the Zhoushan Cross-Sea Bridge — a series of bridges linking the main island (Zhoushan Island / Dinghai) to Ningbo on the mainland. Long-distance buses operate between Zhoushan and major cities in Zhejiang and beyond. The bridge crossing itself offers striking views of the bay.
Getting to Putuoshan Specifically
Putuoshan is a separate island from Zhoushan Island and is accessible only by ferry from Shenjiamen port or other designated docks. Private vehicles are not permitted on Putuoshan. Confirm current ferry schedules on arrival in Zhoushan or via the local port authority.
Getting Around
Between Islands
Ferry services are the primary means of moving between islands. Routes, frequency, and vessel types vary by destination. Booking tickets in advance during Chinese national holidays (particularly Golden Week in early October and the Spring Festival period) is strongly advised, as boats fill quickly.
On the Main Islands
Local buses serve the main urban areas of Zhoushan Island, including Dinghai and Putuo districts. Taxis and ride-hailing apps (principally Didi Chuxing) are widely used; international visitors may need a Chinese phone number linked to a payment platform to use ride-hailing apps effectively.
On Putuoshan
Putuoshan operates shuttle buses connecting the ferry dock to the island's temples, beaches, and scenic areas. The island is compact enough that parts of it can be explored on foot, though the terrain is hilly. Electric tourist carts supplement the bus network in some areas.
Practical Notes
- Rental bicycles or e-bikes are available on some islands and can be a pleasant way to explore quieter areas — confirm availability locally.
- Road signage is predominantly in Chinese; download offline maps before travel.
Things to See & Do
Putuoshan Pilgrimage and Temples
Putuoshan is the spiritual heart of the archipelago and one of China's four sacred Buddhist mountains. The island's three main temple complexes — Puji Temple, Fayu Temple, and Huiji Temple — draw both devout pilgrims and curious visitors. The forested paths connecting them are peaceful and well maintained. Respect is expected: dress modestly, speak quietly, and follow posted guidelines at each site. Verify admission details and hours on arrival, as these can vary by season.
Beaches
Zhujiajian Island, sometimes called the 'Maldives of the East' in domestic tourism marketing (an exaggeration, but the beaches are genuinely attractive), has some of the archipelago's best sandy beaches. Thousand-Step Beach (Qianbu Sha) and Hundred-Step Beach (Baibu Sha) are the most visited. The International Sand Sculpture Festival is held on Zhujiajian periodically — check whether it coincides with your visit.
Shenjiamen Fishing Harbour
Wandering the working docks at Shenjiamen in the early morning, when fishing boats return and the wholesale seafood market is active, gives an unfiltered look at the archipelago's maritime economy. The night market along the harbour front is lively in the evenings.
Dinghai Old Town
Dinghai, the historic core of Zhoushan City, retains some well-preserved late Qing and Republican-era streetscapes. It is less visited by international tourists and offers a more everyday urban experience alongside a few modest heritage sites.
Hiking and Nature
Several of the islands have marked hiking trails through coastal forests and along cliff edges. Dongji Islands (a group of outer islands) are popular with domestic adventure travellers for their raw, relatively undeveloped scenery, though reaching them involves additional ferry legs.
Food & Drink
Seafood as the Local Identity
Zhoushan cuisine centres almost entirely on the sea. Yellow croaker (大黄鱼, dà huáng yú) is perhaps the most prized local fish and features in many preparations — steamed, braised, or dried. Crab, shrimp, squid, sea cucumber, and razor clams are all widely available and typically very fresh. The seafood here is broadly considered among the best in coastal China.
Local Dishes and Snacks
- Salt-baked yellow croaker: a simple preparation that lets the fish's quality speak for itself.
- Seafood congee (粥, zhōu): a common breakfast option at local eateries.
- Dried seafood products: squid, shrimp, and fish are sold dried throughout the markets and make popular souvenirs.
- Zhoushan rice cakes: a local variation on the Ningbo-style sticky rice cake tradition.
Where to Eat
Shenjiamen's harbour-front night market is the most atmospheric setting for a seafood dinner. Smaller family-run restaurants (小馆子) throughout the islands often offer better value and fresher product than tourist-facing establishments. Menus are almost always in Chinese only; a photo menu or translation app helps considerably.
Alcohol and Drinks
Chinese baijiu (grain spirit) and beer are the most common alcoholic options. Tea is served widely. International spirits and wine are available in larger hotels and some urban restaurants but are not a feature of local dining culture.
Shopping
What to Buy
Dried seafood is the signature purchase in Zhoushan — dried squid, shrimp, and various processed fish products are sold throughout markets and dedicated shops. Quality and price vary considerably; buying from established market stalls rather than tourist-facing souvenir shops is generally advisable.
Buddhist ritual goods — incense, prayer beads (念珠, niànzhū), small statues, and printed sutras — are sold extensively around Putuoshan's temple areas. These range from mass-produced items to better-quality handmade pieces.
Fresh seafood can also be purchased at wholesale markets to take away, though note airline and ferry restrictions on carrying fresh or live seafood. Verify any packaging and transport requirements before purchasing.
Practical Information
Money
The Chinese Yuan (RMB) is the only legal tender. Mobile payments (Alipay, WeChat Pay) dominate daily transactions. ATMs in larger towns generally accept international cards, but availability on smaller islands is limited — carry sufficient cash before heading to outlying areas. Verify ATM compatibility with your bank before travel.
Communications
China's mobile networks (China Mobile, China Unicom, China Telecom) provide good coverage across the main islands; coverage on very remote outer islands may be patchy. Purchasing a local SIM or a mainland China-compatible travel SIM is practical for data access. Remember that standard international roaming will not bypass Chinese internet restrictions.
Emergency Contacts
- General emergency: 110 (police), 120 (ambulance), 119 (fire)
- Nearest major hospitals with higher-level facilities are in Ningbo or Shanghai; serious medical emergencies may require evacuation from outer islands.
Electricity
China uses 220V / 50Hz. Standard plug types are Type A (two flat pins), Type I (two angled flat pins), and Type C. A universal travel adapter is recommended.
Tipping
Tipping is not a customary practice in mainland China and is generally not expected in restaurants, taxis, or hotels.
Safety
Zhoushan is generally considered a safe destination for travellers. Petty crime exists, as in any tourist area, so standard precautions apply — keep valuables secure and be alert in crowded markets and ferry terminals.
The main safety concern specific to the archipelago is weather. Typhoons can affect the islands from late June through September, sometimes disrupting ferry services for extended periods. Monitor official weather bulletins (China Meteorological Administration) during this period and build flexibility into your itinerary. Ferry operators will cancel services when conditions are unsafe; do not attempt to pressure operators or take unofficial vessels during storm warnings.
Sea swimming at beaches carries the usual risks of rip currents. Observe posted flags and local warnings. Lifeguard coverage varies by beach and season — verify on arrival.
Medical facilities on smaller islands are basic. Ensure your travel insurance covers medical evacuation and that you carry adequate supplies of any prescription medication.
Local Culture & Etiquette
Buddhist Pilgrimage Culture
Putuoshan is an active religious site visited by millions of pilgrims annually, not only a tourist attraction. Visitors should behave respectfully within temple precincts: avoid loud behaviour, dress modestly (covering shoulders and knees is appropriate), do not photograph worshippers without permission, and follow any posted rules about restricted areas. During major Buddhist festivals — particularly the three Guanyin festival days in the lunar calendar — the island becomes extremely crowded.
Fishing Community Identity
Zhoushan's communities have a deep-rooted maritime identity shaped by centuries of fishing. The local dialect, food culture, and folk traditions (including sea deity worship, particularly of Mazu) reflect this heritage. Visitors who show genuine curiosity and respect for this culture are generally warmly received.
General Etiquette
- A few words of Mandarin — greetings, 'thank you' (谢谢, xièxiè) — are appreciated.
- Bargaining is expected in open markets but not in fixed-price shops or restaurants.
- Loud public behaviour is generally considered poor form; this is especially true at religious sites.
- Photography of military installations, port infrastructure, or official buildings may be restricted — err on the side of caution.
