Things To Do
in Zhoushan

Fresh scallops steamed with garlic and vermicelli — a ubiquitous and must-try dish available at harborfront restaurants and seafood stalls.

Must-Try!

A clear, umami-rich soup made from local white fish and bones, often served with tofu and greens; common in Putuo and Zhujiajian eateries.

Preserved fish products made by local fishermen — sold in markets and used in home-style dishes or as snacks.

A savory, slightly sweet braised eel popular in the region — served in many seaside restaurants.

When visiting Mount Putuo and other temples, dress modestly, speak quietly, do not step on thresholds or touch religious artifacts and follow signs for photography restrictions.

A simple 'nǐ hǎo' (你好) and a smile go a long way; avoid overly loud behavior in public spaces and be patient in queues.

Accepting food offered is polite; when sharing dishes, use communal utensils where provided. It’s common to order several shared plates for the table.

Bargaining is acceptable in some markets for souvenirs or small services but not in supermarkets or fixed-price stores.

Tipping is not customary in most of China, and Zhoushan is no exception; small tips may be given for exceptional service in hotels or by private guides but are not expected in restaurants. Porters and private drivers may accept small cash tips, and some upscale hotels may add service charges.

Mobile payments (Alipay and WeChat Pay) are widespread and often preferred; cash (RMB) is still useful for markets and small stalls. Credit cards work at bigger hotels and restaurants but may be refused at smaller businesses — ensure you have some cash or a mobile-pay setup.

Mild temperatures and blooming coastal vegetation make spring pleasant for hiking and temple visits; expect occasional rain and early-season ferry schedules.

Warm and humid with peak tourist season for beaches and islands; great for swimming and seafood but beware of crowds, high humidity and the start of typhoon season (late summer).

Crisp, clear weather and lower humidity make autumn the best time for island hopping and outdoor photography; sea can be calm and visibility is often excellent.

Mild compared with northern China but cooler and windier; many tourist services reduce hours, and some smaller ferry routes may run less frequently.

A network of well-trodden trails linking Puji Temple, Foding Palace, Huiji Temple and coastal viewpoints — routes vary from easy walks to steep stair climbs with rewarding sea vistas.

Scenic cliff and shoreline paths that loop around beaches and rock formations, ideal for sunrise/sunset photography and moderate hikes.

Gentle trails and coastal paths on select Shengsi islands offering quiet village scenes, salt pans and secluded bays for low-impact hiking.

Tracks and backroads on Jintang Island that provide rural coastal landscapes, local farmland and quieter sea views away from main tourist routes.

The predominant group across Zhoushan, with local cultural traits shaped by maritime life and Zhejiang province traditions.

Long-established fishing families and island communities who maintain traditional livelihoods and local customs.

Putuo Mountain draws pilgrims, monks and nuns from across China, contributing to a visible religious presence and many temple-related services.

Workers from other parts of China who support tourism, seafood processing and construction sectors, especially during peak seasons.

With abundant sea and sheltered bays, sailing, small-boat cruising and recreational boating are popular among locals and visitors.

Both commercial and recreational fishing are central to local life and a common pastime; fishing competitions and boat trips are seasonal highlights.

Traditional dragon-boat events occur during festival times and local clubs practice on the water in summer.

Common community sports in urban neighborhoods and schools, popular for everyday recreation.