Putuoshan
Discover Putuoshan.
Putuoshan at a Glance
Everything you need to know before you go.
Where to Stay
Choose the neighborhood that fits your style.
Puji Temple Area
Stay in the heart of Putuoshan, just a minute's walk from Puji Temple and three from Baibu Sand Beach. This central area offers easy access to the West Heaven Scenic Area, with hotels like Xilai Xiaozhuang providing dining, shopping, and conference facilities. Ideal for pilgrims and those wanting to be near key temples.
Central accessFayu Temple Area
Near Fayu Temple, Feiding Mountain, and Qianbu Sand Beach, this area is home to upscale options like the Landison Manor, which features sea-view rooms, a Chinese restaurant serving seafood and vegetarian dishes, and a serene Zen atmosphere. Perfect for travelers seeking luxury and tranquility.
Upscale retreatBusha Beach
Located by the golden sands of Longwan, this area offers budget-friendly stays like Zhuxiangju Hotel and seaside family inns. Enjoy fresh seafood with affordable processing fees, and take in views of the Guanyin Buddha statue. Great for beach lovers and budget-conscious visitors.
Budget-friendlyPutuoshan Highlights
The city's essential experiences.
Puji Zen Temple, the main temple of Putuo Mountain, is located south of Baihua Mountain. It is especially vibrant during the three major incense periods on the 19th day of the 2nd, 6th, and 9th lunar months. Opening hours: 8:00-18:00, incense ticket 5 yuan.
Fayu Zen Temple sits under Guangxi Peak, left of Baihua Summit. It is one of the three major temples on Putuo Mountain. Take the tourist bus to Fayu Temple Station. Incense ticket is 5 yuan.
Huiji Zen Temple, also known as Foding Mountain Temple, originated as a stone pavilion and was expanded during the Qing Dynasty. It offers a serene atmosphere and is a must-visit for pilgrims. Located on Foding Mountain, accessible via the cable car.
Bukenqu Guanyin Temple, meaning 'Guanyin Temple That Refuses to Leave', is nestled in the Purple Bamboo Grove. It is a sacred site with a legendary story. Accessible by tourist bus to Zijin Bamboo Forest stop, and the ticket is included in the forest's admission.
Daqing Mountain, the highest peak on Zhujiajian Island, faces the sea on three sides. Its ridges stretch for over ten li, featuring more than 200 unique rocks and strange stones. A paradise for hikers and nature lovers.
Panshi Rock, near Meifu Nunnery on Meiling Peak, is a massive stone that seems to defy gravity. It is a free attraction and offers a great photo opportunity. Reach it by tourist bus to West Heaven Ferry or walk from Baibu Sandbank.
Two Turtles Listening to the Dharma Stone, west of Pantuo Stone on Meiling Peak, is a curious rock formation that resembles two turtles listening to Buddhist teachings. Free to visit, accessible by tourist bus to Xitian Ferry or walking from Baibu Sand.
Heart Character Stone, below the West Heavenly Gate, is a large rock engraved with the Chinese character 'heart'. It is a symbolic spot for meditation. Free entry, reachable by tourist bus to Xitian Ferry or on foot from Baibu Sand.
Nansha, the center of the Ten-mile Golden Sand Scenic Area, hosts the famous Zhoushan International Sand Sculpture Art Festival. It is ideal for sea recreation with activities like swimming, surfing, and beach volleyball.
Baibu Sandbank, southeast of Puji Temple, is a beautiful stretch of sand perfect for a leisurely stroll. The ticket is included in the Putuo Mountain Scenic Area pass. Open 8:00-17:00, accessible by tourist bus to Puji Temple East.
Fanyin Cave, on Fayin Road, is a sea cave where the sound of waves echoes like Buddhist chanting. It is a free attraction and can be reached by tourist bus to Fanyin Cave Station.
Chaoyin Cave, on Guanyin Tiao Mountain, is known for the thunderous sound of the tide. It is included in the Purple Bamboo Forest ticket. Take the tourist bus to Purple Bamboo Forest Station and walk.
South Heavenly Gate, on South Mountain, is a majestic stone archway marking the entrance to a sacred area. It is free to visit. Take the tourist bus to the 'Entering Three Moksha' stop and walk.
The Standing Statue of Nanhai Guanyin, on Guanyin Tiao Mountain, is an iconic 33-meter-tall bronze statue overlooking the sea. It is a symbol of Putuo Mountain. Incense ticket is 6 yuan, accessible by tourist bus to Zijin Bamboo Forest.
Duobao Pagoda, southeast of Puji Temple near Haiyin Pond, is an ancient pagoda with intricate carvings. It is included in the Putuo Mountain Scenic Area ticket. Open 8:00-17:00, reachable by tourist bus to Puji Temple East.
Luojia Mountain, resembling a giant Buddha lying on the sea, is said to be where Guanyin practiced. A saying goes: 'If you haven't been to Luojia Mountain, you haven't completed your pilgrimage to Putuo Mountain.'
Best Time to Visit
Each season offers something different.
Spring
Mild and pleasant, with blooming flowers. Ideal for sightseeing and pilgrimages. Pack light layers.
Summer
Warm and humid, with occasional rain. Perfect for beach activities, but remember sun protection and stay hydrated.
Autumn
Cool and crisp, with clear skies. Best time for outdoor exploration and enjoying sea views. Bring a light jacket.
Winter
Cold and windy, but less crowded. Suitable for quiet reflection. Dress warmly and check ferry schedules.
Suggested Itineraries
Plans for every schedule.
Classic 2-Day
Day 1: Nanhai Guanyin Statue, Chaoyin Cave, Purple Bamboo Forest, Puji Zen Temple, Bukenqu Guanyin Temple. Day 2: Baibu Sand, Fayu Zen Temple, Fanyin Cave, Huiji Zen Temple.
Spiritual 3-Day
Day 1: Xizi Stone, Pantuo Stone, Ergui Tingfa Stone, Puji Zen Temple, Duobao Pagoda. Day 2: Duangu Shengji, Luojia Mountain, Bukenqu Guanyin Temple, Chaoyin Cave, Purple Bamboo Forest, Nanhai Guanyin Statue. Day 3: Baibu Sand, Fayu Zen Temple, Fanyin Cave, Huiji Zen Temple.
Immersive 4-Day
Day 1: Nanhai Guanyin Statue, Chaoyin Cave, Bukenqu Guanyin Temple, Puji Zen Temple. Day 2: Xizi Stone, Pantuo Stone, Ergui Tingfa Stone, Duobao Pagoda, Purple Bamboo Forest. Day 3: Duangu Shengji, Luojia Mountain, Baibu Sand, Qianbu Sand. Day 4: Fayu Zen Temple, Fanyin Cave, Huiji Zen Temple.
Local Tips
Insider knowledge for a smoother trip.
Buy incense at scenic spots: 15 yuan for small bucket, 36 yuan for large, enough for two people.
Temple meals are only served at lunch (tickets from 10:30). Arrive early to secure a spot.
A must-visit for those praying for children. Buses are scarce; consider walking downhill to Fayu Temple station.
Go early to avoid crowds. Free water refill stations and incense available on the mountain.
Besides coins, bring sesame oil (not cooking oil) as a sign of respect.
Wear soft sports shoes; you'll walk a lot, and signs are unclear, so comfortable footwear is essential.
FAQs About Putuoshan
Quick answers to common questions.
Ready to Explore Putuoshan?
Let MagicTrip build the perfect Putuoshan itinerary.