Overview
Zhoushan is a sea gateway for the Yangtze River Delta, offering a rare combination of Buddhist pilgrimage sites, island beaches, and authentic fishing port culture. Zhoushan Island is the fourth largest island in China, and the archipelago's 1,390 islands provide diverse experiences from sacred Mount Putuo to the remote East Pole islands that served as filming locations for the movie Meet Later.
Beach · Budget Travel · Day Trips · Nature
Before you go
Connectivity
4G coverage good on main islands. Outer islands (Shengsi, East Pole) have variable signal. WiFi available in hotels. Chinese power standard (220V, Type I plugs).
Food
Zhoushan is a seafood paradise with famous hairtail, yellow croaker, eel, and pomfret. Night market stalls at Shenjiamen offer fresh seafood dining. Local waxberry soju is a regional specialty.
Money
Zhoushan uses Chinese Yuan (CNY). ATMs are available in Dinghai and Putuo districts. Most restaurants and markets accept mobile payment (WeChat Pay, Alipay). Cash may be preferred at night market stalls.
Transport
Zhoushan has a bus system connecting major areas. Inter-island ferries depart from Shenjiamen port for destinations including Shengsi Islands and East Pole. Bus routes 31/34, 1/3/6/7/15/23/29, and 22/103/105 serve key attractions.
Weather
Subtropical monsoon climate with 16°C average. Typhoons possible July-October. Winter is windy. Best visiting seasons are spring and early autumn for stable weather.
