Understand

Nestled 5km east of Zhoushan island in Zhejiang province, Putuoshan rises 297 meters above the sea level and is a haven for cultural enthusiasts. Dedicated to Guanyin, the revered Goddess of Mercy, this mountain offers a serene atmosphere and an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The port boasts an accommodation bureau with helpful staff who can guide you towards comfortable hotels and guest houses on the island. While reservations are recommended during national holidays, they are typically unnecessary during other times, ensuring a stress-free stay. Additionally, a tourist office near the Puji temple provides free English-language guides and maps, making it an ideal starting point for exploration.

Get in

When traveling to Putuoshan, you have multiple options for transportation. Whether you are coming from Ningbo, Zhoushan, or Shanghai, you can easily reach the island. The cost to land on Putuoshan is 160, as the entire island is a National Park. If you want a more enhanced experience, you can purchase a "Digital CD-ROM entry ticket" for an additional 5, which includes a CD with a video about the island. Thanks to new bridges, you can now travel to Shenjiamen entirely by bus from Shanghai and Ningbo. From Shanghai, there are several departures daily from Shanghai Sightseeing Bus Center, Shanghai Nanpu Bridge Bus Center, and Shanghai South Long Distance Bus Station. The bus ride takes about 4-5 hours and costs 138rmb. In Ningbo, buses depart from both the Ningbo South and Ningbo North bus stations. The journey takes 2-3 hours and costs 60rmb. Once you reach Shenjiamen, you can take a 15-minute ferry ride to Putuoshan. There are two options for the ferry: a slow one that costs 14 and takes 25 minutes, or a fast one that costs 22 and takes only 10 minutes. While the bus/ferry combinations are still available, the new bridge connections offer faster and more comfortable transportation. If you are traveling from Ningbo to Putuoshan, the journey will cost you 70. It includes a 1-hour bus ride from the Ningbo Ferry Wharf to the port in Daxie and a 1-hour boat ride from Daxie to Putuoshan. The Ningbo Ferry Wharf is located just north of LaoWaiTan in 288 Zhongma Road. If you have a hotel booking, you may be met at the wharf by a hotel minibus. Additionally, there is an information/hotel booking desk at the Wharf, and another information center in the Puji Temple central area. For those coming from Shanghai, there are two boats departing. The cheapest option leaves in the evening and takes around 12 hours, costing approximately 90-340 (one way). Alternatively, you can buy a ticket for approximately 260 (one way) which includes a bus trip to Luchao Wharf from the city center (taking up to two hours depending on traffic conditions) and a boat onwards to Putuoshan (taking between two and three hours). If you are starting your journey from Hangzhou, there are buses departing from the south bus station (407 Qiutaolu) to the bus station on Zhoushan (Shenjiamen). The buses run approximately once per hour, take 3-4 hours, and cost 70. The bus journey no longer involves a vehicular ferry from the mainland to Zhoushan due to the completion of a new bridge.

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Dim Sum - A collection of small bite-sized portions of various Chinese dishes, which can include dumplings, spring rolls, barbecued pork buns, and egg tarts. These are often served as a brunch or pre-lunch meal, accompanied by tea.

Peking Duck - A whole roasted duck that is a specialty of Beijing, known for its thin, crisp skin, rich, tender meat, and flavorful fat. The duck is typically served with thin pancakes, scallions, and a sweet bean sauce.

Kung Pao Chicken - A stir-fried dish made with chicken, peanuts, vegetables (usually bell peppers and onions), and chili peppers, all coated in a spicy, savory sauce. It's a staple in Sichuanese and broader Chinese cuisine.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing