The ticket prices are great during the off-season!

🌊I have long heard of the famous Mount Putuo, and finally, I set foot on this pure land of Buddhism during the off-season. The wind in December is cold, but it also blows away the noise, giving the soul a place to rest. Mount Putuo, one of the four famous Buddhist mountains in China, is located in Zhoushan City, Zhejiang Province. As the ashram of Guanyin Bodhisattva, Mount Putuo is not only a pilgrimage site for Buddhist believers but also a picturesque tourist destination. 1. Preparation Before departure, I checked the travel guide and learned that Mount Putuo is cold in winter and the sea is rough. So, I packed a thick down jacket, warm gloves, a scarf, fleece pants, waterproof and non-slip snow boots, and comfortable walking shoes in my backpack. I traveled from Ningbo and took a boat at Zhujiajian Wharf. The boat schedule is affected by the weather, so it is important to check the schedule in advance and allow enough time to wait for the boat. After all, if you miss a boat, your trip will be delayed. 2. Arrival at Mount Putuo When I arrived at the wharf, the advantage of the off-season was obvious. There were no crowds, and I didn't have to wait in long lines for the bus, which made me feel very comfortable. I bought a discounted ticket for CNY 120 (original price CNY 160) and started my Buddhist journey. 3. The road to worship As suggested, I took a yellow minibus to Nanhai Guanyin and had a smooth journey. The sun shone down, dispelling the cold, and after about 12 minutes of walking, I arrived at Puji Temple. It happened to be the evening class at Puji Temple, so I knelt with the monks. The Buddhist music was melodious, and my heart instantly calmed down. After the class, I felt refreshed and full of energy. If you want to go to Fayu Temple and Huiji Temple, you have to go back to the Nanhai Guanyin Purple Bamboo Forest parking lot to transfer. Fortunately, there were not many people, so it was not troublesome. Shancai Cave is also not to be missed. There is basically no need to queue from 8 am to 11 am, and there are more people in the afternoon. A 30-minute wait is acceptable. Everyone is devout and orderly. 4. Travel tips Although free travel is free, it always feels like something is missing without an explanation. Private cars are prohibited on the island, and transportation arrangements are inconvenient. Group tours are more considerate. Local guides accompany you throughout the journey, explaining the steps of praying and the stories of the temples, and arranging food, accommodation, and transportation. The only "disadvantage" of Mount Putuo in winter is the strong wind, but as long as it is a sunny day, walking in the mountains with the warm sun will warm your body and mind. This trip, I came with sincerity and returned with peace of mind. The beauty of Mount Putuo is something you have to experience for yourself. 🌄 Next time, I hope to continue my Buddhist relationship.