Zhoushan Islands: A Hidden Gem near Shanghai

China's Best-Kept Secret Islands 2 Hours from Shanghai! #chinatravelvlog

Destination:ChinaProvince:ZhejiangCity:Ningbo
China's Best-Kept Secret Islands 2 Hours from Shanghai! #chinatravelvlog
Expat Natt2024-07-0720 min

Zhejiang's Best-Kept Secret: The Islands of Zhoushan

Just 1hr from Shanghai lies the hidden archipelago of Zhoushan. Made up of over 400 islands, Zhoushan is as real hidden gems found east of Ningbo, Zhejiang, China. Famous for it's Putuo Mountain temples this destination is often referred to as the "Buddhist Paradise of the Sea".

Join us on a captivating road trip vlog to the enchanting islands of Zhoushan, Zhejiang, China. Discover the best spots, scenic drives, and hidden beaches as we immerse ourselves in the beauty of these hidden gems. Indulge in fresh seafood delights and embrace the laid-back island life in this picturesque destination. Experience the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation in our exploration of Zhoushan's captivating landscapes and vibrant culture.

The first of the islands can be accessed by driving an hour from the southern tip of Shanghai, across the ocean, to Xiao Lata Dao, or, through Ningbo to Zhoushan, which is surprisingly closer to our home in Shanghai than going the Shanghai route.

--- Expat Natt
July 7, 2024, Summer in China

Video Chapters

  1. 0:00Coming Up
  2. 00:33Daishan Island
  3. 06:45Xiushan Island
  4. 07:19Ferry to Zhoushan
  5. 09:17Flower Fields
  6. 09:55Hotel Tour
  7. 11:13Seafood Dinner
  8. 12:00Zhujiajian Island
  9. 17:00Scenic Ocean Drive
  10. 19:19Zhoushan Apartment Tour

Expat Natt's Zhoushan island adventure: stunning coastal drives, hidden beaches, and delicious seafood create an unforgettable escape from Shanghai.

Travel Guides & Tips in this video

  1. Tip 1Enjoy a quick and delicious noodle lunch at a small town along the way. It's a great way to experience local cuisine and take a break from driving. (0:42)
  2. Tip 2Find scenic spots with beaches where you can charge your electric vehicle and relax. It's a convenient way to recharge both yourself and your car. (2:47)
  3. Tip 3Consider using ferries to travel between islands. It can be quicker and more economical than driving, especially during peak seasons or holidays. (7:13)
  4. Tip 4Indulge in fresh seafood at local restaurants. Zhoushan is known for its delicious seafood, and trying it is a must for any visitor. (11:15)
  5. Tip 5Visit Nansha beach for a relaxing time. It's a beautiful sandy beach with water sports and a dedicated area for children to play. (14:46)
  6. Tip 6Take a scenic drive along the coastal roads. Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views and immerse yourself in the beauty of the islands. (17:03)

Expat Natt and Mew embark on a breathtaking road trip to Zhoushan, a hidden archipelago just hours from Shanghai. This isn't your typical tourist trap; it's a collection of islands brimming with unspoiled beaches, scenic coastal drives, and charming local towns. They discover hidden coves, sample delicious fresh seafood, and experience the tranquility of island life. From the stunning views to the unexpected encounters, their journey is a captivating blend of adventure and relaxation.

More about the current video:( 30 / 44 )

China's Best-Kept Secret Islands 2 Hours from Shanghai! #chinatravelvlog

This captivating vlog follows Expat Natt and Mew on a unique road trip to the Zhoushan archipelago, a stunning cluster of islands often overlooked by tourists. Their journey begins with a drive from Shanghai, highlighting the surprising accessibility of these hidden gems. The vlog beautifully captures the couple's exploration of various islands, showcasing breathtaking coastal scenery, secluded beaches, and charming local towns.

One of their first stops is Dasan Island, where they explore the northern tip and discover a small pebble beach abundant in sea glass. They later find a scenic spot with a large sandy beach, perfect for charging their Tesla and enjoying a leisurely walk along the coast. The journey is punctuated by moments of quiet reflection, as Natt marvels at the beauty of these undiscovered locations, emphasizing their proximity to Shanghai despite their seeming remoteness.

The vlog then takes us to a rocky area popular for camping, and later to a scenic park, before continuing along the coast towards Putuo Mountain. Along the way, they encounter a beautiful camping park with breathtaking flowers and discover the serene beauty of the islands. They also visit a seaside resort reminiscent of Santorini, showcasing the diverse landscapes of the archipelago.

Navigating the islands presents its own set of challenges, as the vlog captures their experience taking a ferry between islands, a more efficient method than driving, especially considering the cost of tolls. They enjoy a quick lunch while waiting for the ferry, showcasing their adaptability and resourcefulness.

The exploration continues to Ju Island, known for its Buddhist temples and rich cultural heritage. The vlog highlights the contrast between the quieter, less-visited islands and the bustling tourist areas of Ju Island, where they find the narrow streets and busy roads a challenge to navigate. Despite the crowds, they find a beautiful sandy beach worth the entrance fee, a stark contrast to other less appealing beaches on the island.

Their trip culminates with a scenic drive along a coastal road, offering panoramic views of the island. The vlog captures their appreciation for the beauty of the surroundings and the unique experiences they encounter along the way. The couple concludes their journey with a stay in a charming apartment, enjoying the tranquility of island life before returning to Shanghai. Throughout the vlog, Expat Natt and Mew's personal insights and emotional responses add a layer of authenticity to the experience, making it a truly captivating journey for viewers. Their enthusiasm and appreciation for the beauty and tranquility of Zhoushan are contagious, leaving viewers with a strong desire to explore this hidden gem themselves.

FAQs (From the traveler's perspective)

Q: What was the best part of the trip?
A: Definitely the drive along the scenic coastal road! The views were absolutely stunning, and it was so peaceful and quiet.
Q: What was the food like?
A: The seafood in Zhoushan was amazing! It was so fresh and delicious, definitely a highlight of the trip.
Q: What's the best way to get around the islands?
A: Ferries are a great option. They're quick, cheap, and convenient, especially if you're travelling between islands.
Q: What was the most surprising thing you found?
A: How close these islands are to Shanghai! I had no idea such beautiful, hidden gems existed so nearby.
Q: Would you recommend this trip to others?
A: Absolutely! It's a fantastic way to escape the city and experience the beauty of China's coast. Just be prepared for some busy roads on Ju Island.

Zhoushan Islands: A Hidden Gem near Shanghai

Explore Zhoushan's stunning islands, a hidden gem near Shanghai! Discover breathtaking scenery, delicious seafood, and serene beaches. An unforgettable Chinese adventure.

Zhoushan Islands Road Trip: Exploring China's Hidden Coastal Gems

Embark on a captivating road trip with an English-Chinese couple as they explore Zhoushan, a hidden archipelago of over 400 islands, just an hour from Shanghai. This "Buddhist Paradise of the Sea," famed for its Putuo Mountain temples, offers stunning scenery, scenic drives, and hidden beaches. Their journey takes them across islands, from Daishan to Xiushan, indulging in fresh seafood and experiencing the relaxed island life. They showcase breathtaking ocean drives, charming hotels, and vibrant local culture, painting a vivid picture of Zhoushan's beauty and tranquility. A must-watch for anyone seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure!

Attractions in this video: Putuo Mountain Temples, Nansha Beach