Xiangshan

Introducing Xiangshan

Xiangshan County, under the jurisdiction of Ningbo City, Zhejiang Province, China, lies on the coast of the East China Sea, on the southern edge of the Yangtze River Delta region. Surrounded by the sea on three sides and embraced by two harbors, it is named Xiangshan because of the mountain to the northwest that resembles a crouching elephant. The county comprises the eastern part of the Xiangshan Peninsula and 608 islands and reefs along its coast.

Xiangshan, named after the mountain in the northwest of the county seat that "resembles a crouching elephant", consists of the eastern part of Xiangshan Peninsula and 656 islands and reefs along the coast. It is known as the "Eastern Immortal Island, the Fairyland of Sea and Mountains" and a natural oxygen bar.

Shipu Fishing Port Ancient Town is one of Xiangshan's most famous attractions, unique and beautiful. The people of Shipu have made their living from the sea for generations, nurturing a rich and diverse fishing culture and customs.

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Huaao Island

As one of the world's three largest volcanic rock formations, Xiangshan's Hua'ao Island boasts a majestic landscape, numerous bays, steep cliffs, and extensive columnar joints, earning it the nickname "Stone Forest." The towering rock formations, particularly the sea-eroded landscape, are a unique sight in Southeast China. The Wanzhu Cliffs are a prime location for slow-motion photography. Join China-TravelNote on Hua'ao Island to explore the photography locations recommended by National Geographic.

Honolulu Island

Located at the junction of Damuyang and Maotouyang in eastern Shipu Town, Xiangshan County, Zhejiang Province, the island boasts steep terrain, with rolling hills and lush greenery. Fourteen peaks are below 100 meters, with very little flat land. The mountains and fields are lushly covered with shrubs, birdsong, and fragrant flowers. The island is home to numerous bays, interspersed with natural rock formations, caves, and beaches, creating a picturesque maritime landscape.

Colorful beach

Located in Dongdan Village, Xiangshan, this small fishing village is surrounded by mountains on three sides and boasts a 2.5-kilometer coastline. Unlike the crowded golden beaches, this undeveloped area offers a unique opportunity to experience the charm of a more immersive experience. The surrounding area features unique colorful volcanic rock formations rarely seen in East China, with unique geological structures that can be admired on foot.

Recommended play time: 1-3 days

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Most Popular FAQs for Xiangshan

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Xiangshan, part of Ningbo, Zhejiang, is historically a maritime and fishing hub. Its coastal islands and scenic areas are culturally rich, blending traditional fishing village heritage with modern tourism developments, such as Xiangshan Movie Town.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Xiangshan is located in Ningbo, Zhejiang Province, along the East China Sea. Visitors can reach it by:

• Bus or taxi from Ningbo city center (around 2 hours drive).
• Private car or guided tour for convenience, especially to islands.
• Walking and local minibuses for exploring specific attractions like Movie Town or coastal villages.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Most attractions are open daily. The best times to visit are spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

• Xiangshan Movie Town: Approximately ¥120–¥150 per adult; tickets available online or at the entrance.
• Nanji Archipelago tour: Ferry and guided tours range from ¥80–¥200; book online or at the port.
• Most local fishing villages and markets are free to explore; costs are mainly for food or souvenirs.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Advance booking is recommended for Movie Town and Nanji Island tours, especially during weekends or holidays. Booking 3–5 days ahead is generally sufficient.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

• 1 day for Xiangshan Movie Town.
• 1–2 days for Nanji Archipelago and coastal exploration.
• Half a day to a day for local fishing villages and seafood markets.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• Xiangshan Movie Town’s themed streets and sets.
• Scenic viewpoints along Nanji Islands’ cliffs.
• Beilun Port and traditional fishing village experiences.
• Shi Bao Zhai and coastal hiking trails.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available for Movie Town and island tours, mostly in Chinese. English-speaking guides may be arranged with prior request.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Cliffs and beaches of Nanji Archipelago for sunrise or sunset shots.
• Movie Town’s thematic streets and retro-style buildings.
• Coastal hiking trails with panoramic sea views.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

• Day 1: Explore Xiangshan Movie Town.
• Day 2: Take a ferry to Nanji Archipelago and enjoy coastal hikes.
• Day 3: Visit Beilun Port, fishing villages, and seafood markets.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Movie Town occasionally hosts evening events; coastal areas and markets are primarily daytime visits. Special festival tours may occur seasonally.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Crowds peak during Chinese national holidays and summer weekends. Visit on weekdays in spring or autumn for fewer visitors.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

• Public restrooms in Movie Town and major attractions.
• Restaurants and food stalls in Movie Town, fishing villages, and ports.
• Shops for souvenirs and essentials near major tourist areas.
• Rest areas and benches along coastal trails and scenic viewpoints.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Movie Town is mostly accessible with ramps and pathways. Some coastal areas may involve steep or uneven terrain; suitable for fit adults and children with supervision. Elderly or disabled visitors should check specific routes before visiting.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments (Alipay, WeChat Pay) are widely accepted; cash may be needed in smaller villages or for local vendors.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• Seafood restaurants at Beilun Port and local villages.
• Local eateries and cafes in Movie Town and nearby town centers.
• Snack stalls along hiking trails and coastal viewpoints.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available in most eateries. Vegan and halal options are limited but can be found in larger town centers.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Xiangshan Movie Town Hotels – convenient for park access.
• Local guesthouses and inns near Beilun Port and coastal villages.
• Mid-range hotels in Xiangshan town for easy transport to attractions.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• Nanji Archipelago for coastal scenery.
• Xiaogan Temple and local cultural sites.
• Nearby fishing villages for market visits and culinary experiences.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

• Movie Town themed merchandise and replicas.
• Local seafood products like dried fish and seaweed.
• Handicrafts and coastal-themed souvenirs in fishing villages.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

• Bus or taxi back to Ningbo city center.
• Private car for exploring nearby islands or coastal towns.
• Ferry services for trips to other Zhejiang islands like Zhoushan.