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Located north of Zhoushan Island, Daishan Island sits at the mouth of Hangzhou Bay. Also known as the Penglai Fairy Island, its numerous islets resemble lotus blossoms scattered across the vast expanse of the East China Sea. Daishan's unique beauty lies in its waters, beaches, reefs, seafood, and fishing boats.
Daishan feels like a fairyland, perpetually shrouded in a subtle fishy and salty aroma, with the air often filled with the scent of the ocean. Strolling along the soft sandy beach in the sunshine, watching the waves roll in, or lying in a seaside hot spring, listening to the sound of the ocean, is a truly relaxing experience.
Northern subtropical southern edge monsoon oceanic climate
Lulan Qingsha
Lulan Qingsha is a beach in Daishan, named after its location at the foot of Lulan Mountain in the north of Daishan Island. At 3.6 kilometers long, it's the longest beach on the Jiangsu and Zhejiang coasts. The water reaches your chest only a few hundred meters away. At high tide, the waves are huge and resounding, while at low tide, the water is calmer. The ever-changing tides allow for a diverse array of marine life to be seen on the beach. There are always a few days a year when the weather is clear and calm, but only in the mornings does a thin, lingering mist blanket the beach, creating a truly beautiful scene. The waterlogged sand has a steely gray hue, and even cars can be driven on the beach. Enjoy a leisurely ride on a four-wheeled motorcycle.
Xu Futing
This antique-style, two-story, four-cornered pavilion is surrounded by stone railings. Inside the pavilion stands a stele depicting two dragons embracing each other, exquisitely carved from bluestone. The inscription records the connection between Xu Fu's quest for immortality and Mount Dai's ancient name, Penglai. Standing atop the pavilion, one can gaze out across the sea and overlook the entire beach, feeling the gentle sea breeze that soothes the mind and brings a sense of relaxation and refreshment.
Niluo Mountain
Located within Lulanqingsha, this small island is surrounded by sand on three sides and empties into the sea on one side. From a distance, it resembles a giant mud snail crawling toward the sea, hence its name. On the mountaintop stands the site of the former Xingma Stone. Standing on the beach, you can watch the sunrise over the East China Sea through the "Jiguan Reef," a crimson sun breaking through the sea, a dazzling display of colors.
free
Open all day
Daishan Island, located in Zhejiang Province, is part of the Zhoushan Archipelago. Historically, it has been a hub for fishing and maritime trade. The island is known for its rich natural resources, particularly its scenic coastline and pristine beaches. Its significance lies in its cultural heritage, local fishing communities, and its role in regional trade.
Daishan Island is located off the coast of Zhoushan City, Zhejiang Province. To get there, visitors can take a ferry from Zhoushan City or Ningbo. Ferries are the most common means of transport, and taxis are available for local travel around the island once you arrive.
Daishan Island is open year-round. The best time to visit is from spring to autumn (April to October), when the weather is warm and ideal for outdoor activities like hiking and beach visits. Summer can get crowded, so visiting in spring or early autumn is recommended for a more peaceful experience.
The island does not have an entrance fee, but activities such as boat tours or visits to specific attractions may require tickets. Tickets can typically be purchased on-site or through local travel agencies.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary for general entry to Daishan Island, but it is recommended to book ferry tickets in advance during peak travel seasons (such as summer and Chinese public holidays) to ensure availability.
A visit to Daishan Island typically takes 1-2 days, depending on your activities. If you're interested in hiking, exploring the beaches, and enjoying the coastal views, 2 days would be ideal. A day trip can be sufficient for a quick tour of the island's main attractions.
Guided tours are available on Daishan Island, often in Mandarin. English-speaking guides may be available upon request, but it's advisable to arrange this in advance. Audio guides are not commonly provided.
The best viewpoints are along the nature trails and coastal cliffs. The areas around the main beaches offer fantastic opportunities for sunset photography. Boat tours also provide a unique perspective of the island's shoreline and neighboring islands.
Start by exploring the main beaches, then hike along the coastal trails to reach the highest viewpoints on the island. Consider taking a boat trip around the island for a different view of the coastline. End your visit by relaxing in one of the local fishing villages or enjoying a fresh seafood meal.
Night visits are not commonly available on Daishan Island, as it is primarily a daytime destination. However, there are some seaside resorts where you can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere at night. Light shows and special tours are not typically offered, but local events may occur during peak seasons.
Daishan Island can get crowded during peak tourist seasons, especially in summer and on public holidays. To avoid the crowds, visit during weekdays or during the off-season months (spring and autumn).
Basic facilities such as toilets, rest areas, and small shops are available on the island, particularly near the ferry terminal and popular tourist spots. There are also local eateries offering fresh seafood and snacks.
Daishan Island has some accessible areas, but certain parts, such as the nature trails, may be difficult for elderly or disabled visitors due to uneven terrain. It is recommended to check with local services for accessibility options if needed.
Cash is accepted, but mobile payments such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely used on Daishan Island, especially in shops and local restaurants. It is advisable to carry some cash for small purchases or in areas where mobile payments may not be available.
There are several local seafood restaurants and cafes near the island's main attractions. Some offer fresh seafood dishes, a specialty of the island. For more dining options, visitors can head back to Zhoushan City, where there are a wider variety of restaurants.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available in local eateries, with some restaurants offering vegetable-based dishes. Halal food options may be limited, and it's recommended to check in advance if you're looking for specific dietary options.
There are a few guesthouses and boutique hotels on Daishan Island, particularly near the ferry terminal and main beaches. For more accommodation options, visitors can stay in Zhoushan City, which offers a range of hotels, from budget to luxury.
There are small souvenir shops selling local handicrafts, including items made from seashells, bamboo, and stone. Typical souvenirs include handmade jewelry, local snacks, and traditional artwork.
After visiting Daishan Island, you can take a ferry back to Zhoushan City. From there, buses, taxis, or private car services are available for further travel to other nearby attractions like Putuo Mountain or Shengsi Islands.
