Putuoshan is appealing to both Buddhists and regular tourists. It is one of the Four Buddhist Mountains in China as well as the most accessible one that you can easily get to from Shanghai (or Hangzhou, Ningbo). Though a small island-like mountain, Putuoshan retains a special spiritual atmosphere and pleasant natural surroundings, and seems more laid-back than the other three Buddhist mountains.

On this 2 Days Putuoshan Tour which blends both the cultural and natural features of Putuoshan, you will be picked up at your location in Shanghai (hotel, train station, airport), then drive about 3.5 hours to Putuoshan without logistical hassle. After visiting all the highlights of Putuoshan, you will be escorted back to Shanghai. A private tour ensures you comfort, convenience, and flexibility.

Highlights of this Tour

Spiritual Significance and Temples

• Puji Temple: As the oldest and largest temple on Putuoshan, this grand temple is central to the island’s religious life. Its historical significance is matched by its serene, tranquil environment, making it the perfect place to immerse yourself in Buddhist rituals and peaceful reflection.
• Duobao Pagoda: This ancient pagoda is one of the “Three Great Treasures of Putuoshan” and houses relics from past dynasties. It is a symbol of the island’s rich Buddhist heritage, offering visitors a glimpse into the ancient architecture and artistry that flourished during the Yuan Dynasty.
• Unwilling-to-leave Temple: Steeped in legend, this temple is dedicated to the story of a Japanese monk who was stranded by a storm while carrying the statue of Avalokitesvara, the Goddess of Mercy. The temple honors this connection, and the atmosphere of devotion here is palpable.

Natural Beauty and Scenic Spots

• One Thousand-Step Beach: A serene escape, this long stretch of pristine white beach offers not only natural beauty but also a quiet space to enjoy the refreshing sea breeze. The beach is perfect for a leisurely walk and provides stunning views of the coastline and the surrounding ocean.
• Purple Bamboo Forest: This lush forest, filled with towering purple bamboo, holds both spiritual and natural significance. It’s believed to be the original ashram of Avalokitesvara, adding a sense of sacredness to the forest’s peaceful ambiance. The forest leads visitors to the Goddess of Mercy Statue, a towering 33-meter statue of Avalokitesvara, which is a key landmark on the island.
• Fayu Temple and Huiji Temple: Both temples, with their ancient structures and surroundings of rare, ancient trees, offer peaceful retreats and insight into the region’s deep religious roots. Fayu Temple features relics like the Nine-Dragon Caisson and a Nine-Dragon Screen, while Huiji Temple, located at the peak, gives panoramic views of the island and the sea, offering stunning photo opportunities.

Cultural and Scenic Experiences

• Panoramic Views: The Sky Lamp Stage, situated at the top of Putuoshan, provides breathtaking views of the entire island, including its white sandy beaches and the blue seas. It’s the perfect spot for visitors to take in the island’s beauty from a high vantage point.
• Ancient Trees and Peaceful Paths: The island is dotted with ancient trees that add to its peaceful and mystical atmosphere. Walking along the paths, you can enjoy the calming effect of the environment while reflecting on the island’s spiritual significance.

Additional Highlights

• Breathtaking Sunrises and Sunsets: The island offers spectacular views of both the sunrise and sunset, making it an ideal location for those who appreciate nature’s beauty. The combination of coastal views and the island’s spiritual landmarks creates an unforgettable experience.
• Convenience and Comfort: The private nature of the tour ensures that you can explore Putuoshan without any logistical concerns. With an English-speaking guide, you can learn about the history, culture, and significance of the places you visit, while enjoying the comfort of private transport and personalized service.

Full Itinerary Day by Day

Day 1: Shanghai – Putuoshan (L)

You will be picked up by your guide and driver in your hotel lobby, then set off on the trip to Putuoshan, about 3.5 hours’ drive from Shanghai downtown. Upon arrival at Zhu Sha Jian of Zhoushan City, embark on a ferry to Putuoshan, a 15-minute ride to Putuoshan Dock. Disembark and check in at your hotel.

Puji Temple

Start your visit with a short walk from the dock to Puji Temple. Built in 916, this magnificent temple is the oldest and largest temple on Putuoshan Mountain. Every major Buddhist event or ceremony is usually held here. In front of the temple is a beautiful lotus pond.

Adjacent to the temple is the Duobao Pagoda, built to store Buddhist sculptures, and recognized as one of the “Three Great Treasures of Putuoshan”. Remarkably, it still retains its original appearance from the Yuan Dynasty (1271–1368).

One Thousand-Step Beach

Next, take a sightseeing bus to One Thousand-Step Beach on the eastern side of Putuoshan Island. Stroll along this 2,000-meter-long white beach, let the waves kiss your toes, and enjoy the serene sky and sea views.

Unwilling-to-leave Temple & Purple Bamboo Forest

Transfer by sightseeing bus to the Unwilling-to-leave Temple. According to legend, in 858, the Japanese Buddhist Hui’e received a precious statue of Avalokitesvara. While returning to Japan, he was detained by a storm, which he interpreted as a sign that Avalokitesvara was unwilling to leave Putuoshan. He then built this temple to enshrine the statue.

Nearby is the famous Purple Bamboo Forest, believed to be the original ashram of Avalokitesvara (the Goddess of Mercy). A short walk down the bamboo forest leads to the Goddess of Mercy Statue — a 33-meter (108 feet) tall copper statue, a key landmark of Putuoshan.

Afterwards, return to your hotel. The evening is free for you to have dinner and explore at your leisure.

Day 2: Putuoshan – Shanghai (B, L)

After breakfast, take a park bus to Fayu Temple, located 2.8 km from Puji Temple.

Fayu Temple

The Nine-dragon Caisson on the ceiling of the Nine Dragons Hall, along with some glazed tiles, was relocated from the imperial palaces of the Ming Empire in Nanjing during the Qing Dynasty (1636–1912). The temple also houses a Nine-dragon Screen, an ancient, giant structure seamlessly joined by flagstones.

In addition to its grand halls, Fayu Temple is surrounded by huge, rare, and ancient trees scattered around its yards and along its yellow-walled paths, offering visitors a tranquil and peaceful experience.

Huiji Temple & Sky Lamp Stage

Following your visit to Fayu Temple, board the fast cable car for a quick ride to Huiji Temple at the top of Putuoshan. The temple, adorned with colorful glazed tiles, features traditional Garden-Architecture Style halls and courtyards, typical of Zhejiang and Jiangsu.

Close by is the Sky Lamp Stage, offering panoramic views of Putuoshan, its white beaches, and the vast blue seas. After taking in the breathtaking scenery, descend the mountain via a 2088-step stone staircase — a roughly 30-minute walk.

Lastly, take a park bus to the dock for the ferry back to Zhu Jia Jian. The rest of the day is free for you to relax during the drive back to Shanghai.

Service Included:

• Admission fees for all of the sightseeing spots listed in the itinerary;
• Meals as listed in the itinerary;
• Hotels as listed in the itinerary;
• Private English-speaking tour guide;
• Private vehicle for transfers & sightseeing with skilled driver;
• Service charge & government taxes;
• Luggage transfers between airports and hotels;
• Domestic train tickets of soft sleeper.

Service Excluded:

• Any arrival and departure international airfares or train tickets;
• Single room supplement;
• Tips to guides and drivers;
• Personal expenses and gratuities to service staff;
• Personal travel accident insurance;
• All optional programs.