Explore the stunning cliffs and enjoy the scenic coastal views. Visit the ancient temples nearby and hike the surrounding trails. The location is perfect for photography, offering breathtaking views of the sea and cliffs.

The East Cliff, at the easternmost tip of Shengshan Island and the Zhoushan Archipelago, rises tens of meters and stretches for thousands of meters, jutting straight into the sea. Its winding, undulating cliffs tower into the clouds, their faces seemingly cut by swords, knives, and axes. At its base, raging winds and raging waves crash against the shore, sending up piles of snow. The scene is truly formidable, evoking the scene of "birds afraid to cross, monkeys anxious to climb."
Looking around, in addition to exposed rocks, there are also spreading wild flowers and weeds. There are also dozens of houses of various types stacked on the hillside. They are covered with green ivy, like a green castle. It is a very rare sight.
The East Cliff is renowned for its precipitous cliffs, steep sides, and unique rock formations, and is now a Class A scenic spot. The clifftop is the perfect spot for watching the sunrise, the ocean, and the returning fishing boats. You can also take a boat ride on the sea to watch fishermen catching fish, their wives collecting shells, and Haiwa collecting snails. The sea and sky here are the most azure and purest in the entire Shengsi Archipelago.
Summer is a great time to escape the heat; autumn is cool and refreshing, and the chance of seeing the sunrise is higher.
Recommended play time: 1-2 hours
50 yuan/person
Normal opening hours: 4:30-11:30, 13:30-18:00
(Sometimes it will be adjusted according to seasonal changes and passenger flow)
East Cliff is a historic site in Zhoushan, famous for its beautiful cliffs and temples. It has been an important location for Buddhist practices, and the views from the cliff offer a unique perspective of the region's natural beauty.
East Cliff is located in Zhoushan, Zhejiang Province, easily accessible by taxi or bus from the city center. For a more scenic experience, you can also walk or take a local boat to the area.
The site is open year-round. The best times to visit are during spring and autumn when the weather is mild. Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal for avoiding crowds and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere.
There is a small entrance fee to visit East Cliff. Tickets can be purchased on-site or online, depending on the season and availability.
Booking tickets in advance is generally not necessary unless visiting during peak seasons or weekends. It’s recommended to book a few days ahead if you want to guarantee a spot for guided tours or specific events.
You will need about 2-3 hours to fully explore East Cliff, including the cliffs, surrounding temples, and hiking trails.
The cliff itself is the main highlight, along with the nearby temples and panoramic viewpoints. The hike along the coastline also offers incredible views.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some English-speaking guides may be available during peak seasons. Audio guides are not typically provided, so it's a good idea to hire a guide if you prefer detailed insights.
The best viewpoints are at the top of the cliff, offering expansive views of the sea and surrounding islands. The temples and coastal trails also provide great photo opportunities.
Start by exploring the main cliff area and temples. Afterward, take the coastal hiking trails to enjoy the scenic views of the sea and islands, and end with a visit to the observation deck for a full panoramic view.
There are no specific light shows or night tours available, but the site is beautifully lit at night, making evening visits ideal for a quiet and reflective atmosphere.
The site can get crowded during weekends and holidays. For a more peaceful experience, visit during weekdays or early mornings on weekends, especially outside of peak travel seasons.
There are public toilets and small rest areas near the site. Local shops and food vendors offer snacks and refreshments, but there are no large restaurants in the immediate area.
The cliffs and surrounding trails may be difficult for elderly or disabled visitors due to uneven surfaces and stairs. Children will enjoy the natural environment, but supervision is recommended while exploring the trails.
Cash is accepted, but mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely used for convenience. Credit cards are not always accepted in smaller shops.
There are a few local eateries near East Cliff that serve Zhejiang cuisine. Some small cafes near the cliffs also offer a good place to relax and enjoy the view.
Vegetarian options are available in local restaurants, especially Zhejiang-style dishes, which feature plenty of vegetables. Halal food may be available at larger establishments in Zhoushan but is not common in the immediate area.
There are several hotels and guesthouses in Zhoushan city, ranging from budget options to mid-range accommodations. A few smaller inns are located closer to the East Cliff area.
Other nearby attractions include Putuo Mountain, Zhujiajian Island, and the Zhoushan Archipelago. These are great to combine in a day trip, offering both cultural and natural sights.
There are small souvenir shops near the site selling items like local handicrafts, Buddhist-themed souvenirs, tea, and traditional snacks from Zhejiang.
Taxis are available to continue your trip. Zhoushan Railway Station and local bus terminals provide further transportation options for exploring the region.