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Flower and Bird Island (Huaniao Island) in Zhoushan, Zhejiang, offers a blend of natural beauty and historical charm. Visitors can enjoy activities such as:
Located in Shengsi County, Zhoushan City, Zhejiang Province, Flower and Bird Island resembles a seagull spreading its wings, ready to take flight. The island is teeming with flowers and plants, and boasts beautiful forests and valleys, hence its name. It's often called the Santorini of the East and the Bali of China. The TV series "Ode to Joy 2" was filmed here.
Here you can find the azure sea and fine sandy beaches; it has the romantic hues of Santorini; there is also a century-old lighthouse that has experienced war; under the starry sky, magical blue tears will appear, which will make you feel that Ang Lee's movie "Life of Pi" did not lie, and the sea does have a blue color that belongs to the night.
May to October is the best time to visit Huaniao Island. The sea water around the island is light blue-green. If you are lucky, you can witness the "fluorescent sea" at night.
There are two or three clean sandy beaches on the island, where you can swim and play in the sand in the summer. There are also many strange rocks and old stone houses on the island, which makes the island even more mysterious and pristine.
The most famous landmark on Huaniao Island is the Huaniao Lighthouse, known as the largest lighthouse in the Far East and the second largest in Asia. The ocean views near the lighthouse are expansive, making it a perfect spot for photographing and watching the sunset. Recommended activities include hiking the "Mata Line," sea fishing at the Fisherman's House, and visiting Nan'ao Beach and the fluorescent sea.
Recommended number of days: 3-4 days
The ticket price for Bird Island Scenic Area is 95 yuan per person
The transportation fare within the scenic area is 20 yuan/day/passenger. This transportation fare is the land transportation fee required for passengers to visit various scenic spots on the island every day, and tourists shall not be forced to purchase it.
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Flower and Bird Island, or Huaniao Island, is part of the Zhoushan Archipelago in Zhejiang Province. The island is renowned for its rich maritime history, natural landscapes, and cultural heritage. The Huaniao Lighthouse, constructed by the British in the 9th year of the Tongzhi era (1870), is a notable historical landmark. The island's name reflects its vibrant flora and fauna, attracting nature enthusiasts and photographers.
Huaniao Island is situated in Shengsi County, part of the Zhoushan Archipelago in Zhejiang Province. To reach the island:
Huaniao Island is open year-round. The best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months (April to June and September to November), offering pleasant weather and fewer tourists. The bioluminescent sea phenomenon is typically observed in late spring and early summer, providing a unique nighttime experience.
The entrance fee for Huaniao Island is approximately 50 RMB per person. Tickets can be purchased at the ferry terminals before departure. It's advisable to check with the ferry operators for the most current ticketing information and availability.
Booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially during peak travel seasons (spring and autumn) and weekends. It's advisable to book at least a few days ahead to secure your spot, particularly for the ferry rides to and from the island.
To fully explore Huaniao Island, including visits to the lighthouse, beaches, and natural attractions, a stay of 1–2 days is recommended. This allows ample time to enjoy the island's offerings without feeling rushed.
Key highlights on Huaniao Island include:
Guided tours are available on Huaniao Island, offering insights into the island's history, culture, and natural attractions. These tours are typically conducted in Mandarin. It's advisable to check with local tour operators for availability and language options.
Notable photography spots on Huaniao Island include:
A suggested itinerary for exploring Huaniao Island:
Night visits to Huaniao Island are possible, with the highlight being the bioluminescent sea (Blue Tears) phenomenon, where the sea glows at night due to bioluminescent organisms. This natural spectacle typically occurs in late spring and early summer, offering a unique nighttime experience.
Huaniao Island can be crowded during peak travel seasons, such as Chinese public holidays and weekends. To avoid crowds, it's best to visit during weekdays in the off-peak seasons (late autumn to early spring).
Basic facilities are available on Huaniao Island, including public restrooms and local eateries offering seafood and regional dishes. However, amenities may be limited, so it's advisable to bring essentials such as water, snacks, and sun protection.
Huaniao Island's terrain includes uneven paths and natural landscapes, which may pose challenges for elderly, children, or disabled visitors. It's recommended to assess individual mobility needs before planning a visit and consider assistance or alternative arrangements if necessary.
While some establishments on Huaniao Island may accept mobile payments like Alipay or WeChat Pay, it's advisable to carry cash, especially when visiting remote areas where digital payment options may be limited.
Local eateries on Huaniao Island offer fresh seafood and regional dishes. For a wider selection, visitors can explore nearby Shengsi County, which has more dining options ranging from local seafood restaurants to casual cafes.
Vegetarian and vegan options may be limited on Huaniao Island. However, in larger towns like Shengsi, there are restaurants that cater to vegetarian and vegan diets. Halal food options are also more readily available in urban areas.
Accommodations on Huaniao Island include homestays and guesthouses, such as Wuma Homestay and Luming Homestay. These offer basic amenities and a chance to experience local hospitality. For more options, visitors can consider staying in Shengsi County, which has a wider range of hotels and resorts.
Nearby attractions include:
These can be visited as part of a day trip from Huaniao Island.
Souvenir shops on Huaniao Island offer items such as handmade crafts, local snacks, and maritime-themed products. Typical souvenirs include seashell jewelry, traditional Chinese handicrafts, and locally produced teas.
