Zhujiajian

Historical Overview

• Tang Dynasty Foundations (7th–10th centuries): Early Buddhist settlements linked to Mount Putuo’s Guanyin worship.
• Ming Dynasty Development (14th–17th centuries): Construction of coastal defense forts against Japanese pirates, with remains still visible.
• Qing Dynasty Prosperity (17th–20th centuries): Expansion of fishing villages and salt production sites.
• Modern Tourism (2000s): Listed as a national scenic area in 2001, undergoing systematic ecological restoration and infrastructure upgrades.

Structural Layout

The area comprises three main zones:

1. Coastal Recreation Zone:
   • Nansha Beach: 1.5km-long golden sandy beach with international sand sculpture Festivals.
   • Wushitang Pebble Beach: 500m-long shoreline with black volcanic pebbles.
2. Cultural Heritage Zone:
   • Guanyin Statue: 33m-tall white marble Buddha overlooking the East China Sea.
   • Ming Dynasty Forts: Remnants of stone fortifications along the northern coast.
3. Ecological Exploration Zone:
   • Daqingshan National Park: 10km² forested area with hiking trails and panoramic viewpoints.
   • Wuzhi Island: Karst island with diving sites and birdwatching platforms.

Key structures:

• Zhujiajian Lighthouse: 19th-century navigation aid rebuilt in 2000.
• Sand Sculpture Museum: Year-round exhibition of themed sand art.

Major Attractions

1. Nansha International Sand Sculpture Park: View over 100 large-scale sand artworks (May–October).
2. Wushitang Pebble Beach: Walk on volcanic pebbles shaped by centuries of waves.
3. Guanyin Statue: Climb 277 steps to the statue’s base for coastal views.
4. Daqingshan National Park: Hike through subtropical forests to Mount Daqing’s summit.
5. Wuzhi Island: Snorkel in clear waters with coral reefs and sea turtles.

Suggested Itineraries

1. Classic Route (2–3 hours):
   North Gate → Nansha Beach → Guanyin Statue → Wushitang Pebble Beach → Exit
   Highlights: Coastal relaxation and Buddhist cultural sites.

2. Extended Route (4–5 hours):
   North Gate → Daqingshan National Park → Wuzhi Island → Sand Sculpture Museum → Exit
   Highlights: Natural landscapes and artistic exhibits.

3. Comprehensive Route (Full Day):
   North Gate → Nansha Beach → Guanyin Statue → Daqingshan National Park → Wuzhi Island → Wushitang Pebble Beach → Exit
   Highlights: Full exploration of beaches, nature, and culture.

Ticket Purchase

• Entrance Fees (2025):
  • Island Access Pass: ¥100 (1-day validity, includes Daqingshan Park).
  • Beach-Only Pass: ¥60 (Nansha/Wushitang access).
  • Discounts: 50% off for students/seniors (60–70 years); free for children under 1.2m and seniors over 70.
• Online Booking: Available via Ctrip or WeChat mini-program “Zhujiajian” (up to 7 days in advance).
• On-Site Tickets: Limited availability; queues average 20 minutes during weekends.

Transportation

From Shanghai/Hangzhou:

• By High-Speed Rail: Shanghai Hongqiao/Hangzhou East Station → Zhoushan Station → Taxi to ferry terminal (1.5 hours).
• By Car: G92/G15 Expressway → Zhoushan Cross-Sea Bridge → Zhujiajian Ferry Terminal (3 hours total).

From Zhoushan City:

• By Ferry: Zhoushan Benbu Ferry Terminal → Zhujiajian Island (20 minutes, ¥30/person).
• By Taxi: Direct ride to scenic area (15 minutes, ¥20).

Local Shuttle:

• “Island Sightseeing Bus” connects major sites (¥15/day pass).

Best Time & Tips

• Optimal Seasons: May–October (beach season), September–November (clear mountain views).
• Avoid: 10:00 AM–2:00 PM (tour group crowds).
• Essentials:
  • Sunscreen and hat (high UV exposure).
  • Water shoes for pebble beaches.
  • Binoculars for birdwatching (over 80 species recorded).
• Prohibited Items: Drones (restricted airspace), fishing without permit.
• Photography Tips:
  • Golden Hour: Capture beach reflections 1 hour before sunset.
  • Drone Alternatives: Use 2nd-tier observation deck for elevated shots.