Putuoshan
Pre-trip Preparations
• Documents: Bring your ID card and other necessary documents such as student ID, senior citizen card, etc., for ticket purchase or discounts.
• Clothing: It is recommended to wear plain, comfortable clothing and avoid short skirts or shorts. Also, prepare comfortable walking shoes for long walks.
• Other items: Prepare cash as some temples only accept cash for vegetarian meals. You can prepare some small change for offerings. In addition, bring an umbrella, sun hat, sunscreen, etc.
Transportation Guide
• External transportation: You can choose to fly to Putuoshan Airport, or you can first arrive in Ningbo, and then take a bus from Ningbo South Bus Station to Putuoshan (Shenjiamen). You can also take a tourist bus from Shanghai Huangpu Tourist Distribution Center, or take a boat from Shanghai Wusong Wharf.
• Internal transportation: The main transportation on Putuoshan Island is the shuttle bus, with stops covering Fayu Temple, Puji Temple, cable car, Nanhai Guanyin, wharf, etc. The ticket price is 5-10 CNY/trip.
Attractions
• Puji Temple: The largest temple in Putuoshan, known for its popularity. Inside the temple, there is the "Hall of One Hundred Sons," which is a must-visit for those seeking children. In front of the temple, there is a stone inscribed with "It's good to be here," which is a popular photo spot.
• Huiji Temple: Located on the top of Foding Mountain, it is the highest temple in Putuoshan. The Sending-Children Guanyin here is said to be quite efficacious. You can take the cable car up the mountain or walk up the mountain path next to Fayu Temple.
• Fayu Temple: The second largest temple in Putuoshan, with high architectural standards and five main halls. The sculptures and murals inside the temple are exquisite. You can pray for children, marriage, and career here.
• Nanhai Guanyin: The landmark building of Putuoshan, a 33-meter-high golden statue of Guanyin stands majestically on the Guanyin Jump Hill at the southern end of Shuangfeng Mountain. You can pray for peace, health, and marriage here.
• Shancai Cave: A popular attraction in recent years. It is said that rubbing money here has the meaning of keeping and generating wealth. You can hold 8 bills in your left hand and 9 bills in your right hand, rub them in the cave, and then take them home to save.
Accommodation Options
• On Putuoshan Island: Convenient for sightseeing, you can choose homestays or Zen-style hotels, but the prices are relatively high.
• Shenjiamen: Tourists who like traditional fishing culture, harbor culture, food stalls, and old town nightlife can choose to stay here, with more affordable accommodation prices.
• Donggang: A newly developed area in Putuo District, with rich nightlife, complete supporting facilities, and many brand hotels.
Food Recommendations
• Vegetarian food: Most temples in Putuoshan offer vegetarian meals, such as Huiji Temple and Puji Temple. The prices are affordable, generally 10 CNY/person. Please pay attention to the meal times and the "clear your plate" campaign.
• Seafood: Shenjiamen Seafood Night Market is a good place to taste seafood, with a variety of fresh seafood to choose from, such as crabs, shrimps, shellfish, etc.