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Dongji Island is not an official geographical name, nor does it refer to a single island. Instead, it is a customary general term for all islands under the jurisdiction of Dongji Town, Putuo District, Zhoushan City, Zhejiang Province. Its official geographical name should be "Zhongjieshan Islands".
Anyone who has been to Dongji will surely still remember the clear waves, unique reefs, fresh morning breeze, tranquil nights, and simple folk customs... Here, you can see China's first rays of sunshine, admire the Potala Palace on the sea from afar, go sea fishing with a few friends, and even take a leisurely walk around the island...
Dongji Island boasts not only a rich and quaint fishing village atmosphere but also breathtaking scenery. It offers a truly breathtaking combination of sunshine, azure sea, island reefs, and seafood. Its pleasant climate and clear waters make it a rare and pristine place. Dongji's key attractions include Miaozi Lake, Qingbang Island, Dongfu Mountain, and Huangxing Island. It was a key filming location for the film "See You Tomorrow," earning it the nickname "Lijiang on the Sea."
Climate: Subtropical marine monsoon climate
Best time to travel: May to early October. June is the best time to see the sea, as it is neither too hot nor too cold and the sea is calm. August to September is the typhoon season. In October, you can enjoy seafood, with fat fish and crabs.
Recommended attractions: Miaozi Lake, Dongfu Mountain
Recommended play time: about three days
free
All day
Dongji Island is part of the Zhoushan Archipelago in Zhejiang Province and is historically a fishing settlement. It is known as one of the easternmost inhabited islands in China, playing a role as a maritime outpost. The island reflects traditional fishing culture and has gained popularity in recent years for its natural beauty and untouched charm.
The island is open year-round. The best times to visit are late spring to early autumn (May–October), with July and August being most popular for good weather and sea activities. Sunrise viewing is a highlight in summer.
No entrance fee is required for the island itself. Visitors only need to purchase ferry tickets, which cost approximately 100–200 RMB round trip depending on the season and ferry type. Tickets can be bought at Shenjiamen Port or through some online Chinese booking platforms.
Yes, during peak summer and holiday seasons it is strongly recommended to book ferry tickets at least a few days in advance as capacity is limited.
There is no entrance fee, but ferry tickets may provide discounts for children, students, or seniors depending on regulations at the time of purchase.
A valid ID (Chinese ID card or passport for foreign visitors) is required to purchase ferry tickets. No vaccination proof is required for entry.
The island is open all year, but ferry services may be canceled or delayed during typhoons or bad weather.
A 2–3 day trip is recommended to explore Dongji Island and nearby smaller islands comfortably, including sunrise watching, seafood dining, and exploring villages.
Official guided tours are limited, though some local guesthouses arrange private guides in Chinese. English guides are rare, so independent exploration is common.
No strict restrictions, but drones may require local permission. Dress should be comfortable and modest, especially in fishing villages.
Not applicable; ferry tickets are single-use for each trip.
No light shows, but night fishing and stargazing are popular night activities.
It gets crowded during summer holidays (July–August) and Golden Week. The least crowded times are late spring (May–June) and early autumn (September–October).
Basic facilities are available, including small restaurants, toilets, guesthouses, and convenience shops. Services are limited compared to cities.
The island has uneven terrain and steep paths, making it less suitable for disabled visitors. Elderly and children can visit but may require extra care.
They are allowed but difficult to use due to narrow stone paths and stairs. No rentals are provided.
No dedicated cloakrooms or lockers; most guesthouses can help store luggage.
Some guesthouses and cafes provide Wi-Fi, but coverage is limited and often slow.
Most shops and restaurants accept mobile payments (Alipay, WeChat Pay). Cash is useful for small vendors. International cards are generally not accepted.
ATMs are scarce on the island, so bring enough cash in advance if needed.
Most dining options are local seafood restaurants and small family-run eateries. Some guesthouses also provide meals.
Vegetarian options are limited but can be requested. Vegan and halal options are rare, so it’s best to bring your own supplies if needed.
There are many guesthouses and homestays on Dongji Island, often run by local families, offering simple but authentic stays. Some boutique inns also exist.
Small shops sell dried seafood, seashell crafts, and local specialties like seaweed and anchovies.
After returning to Zhoushan by ferry, you can continue by bus, car, or domestic flights from Zhoushan Putuoshan Airport to major Chinese cities.
Respect the local fishing community, avoid loud behavior, and ask before photographing locals. Bargaining in small shops should be polite and moderate.
No strict dress code, but modest clothing is recommended in villages. Avoid littering and disturbing the quiet lifestyle of residents.
Occasional local fishing festivals or cultural gatherings may occur, especially in summer. Exact dates vary year to year.
Dongji is nicknamed “the island closest to the sun in China” because it is one of the first places to see sunrise in the country. Local legends also tell stories of fishermen blessed by sea gods for safe voyages.
The island gained wider recognition after being featured in Chinese films and documentaries showcasing its sunrise and fishing lifestyle, though not tied to a single famous person.
Dongji Island reflects Zhejiang’s maritime traditions, fishing heritage, and the resilience of small island communities. Its stone houses, seafood cuisine, and lifestyle highlight the cultural bond between locals and the sea.
The island is generally very safe. Petty theft is rare. The main safety concern is rough seas and slippery paths during rainy weather.
Basic medical facilities are available, but for serious issues, evacuation to Zhoushan is required. Bring necessary medicines with you.
Yes, the island is safe at night, with locals being friendly. In the off-season, it is quieter but ferry services are less frequent and weather can be rough, so plan accordingly.
