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Zhoushan Travel Tips

Zhoushan Travel Tips

Zhoushan Zhejiang, China Travel Guide

Typical Operating Hours

General timings for services and establishments.

Specific Hours

  • Government offices: Mon-Fri, 8:30 AM - 12:00 PM, 1:30 PM - 5:00 PM.
  • Banks: Mon-Fri, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (some branches open on weekends).
  • Shops: Typically 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM/10:00 PM, usually open daily.

Dining & Attractions

timings for meals and tourist sites.

More Specific Hours

  • Restaurants: Lunch (11:30 AM - 2:00 PM), Dinner (5:30 PM - 9:00 PM).
  • Seafood restaurants in Shenjiamen might remain open late.
  • Attractions: Generally 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM/6:00 PM. Putuoshan temples may open earlier (6:00 AM).

Banking & ATMs

Accessing financial services during your stay.

Financial Access Details

  • ATMs are widely available in urban areas.
  • Foreign credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Plus, Cirrus) are accepted.
  • Look for Bank of China, ICBC, and Agricultural Bank of China branches.

Seasonal Closures

Be aware of potential changes due to seasons or events.

Operational Variations

  • Smaller tourist services or ferry services might have reduced schedules in winter.
  • Typhoons cause temporary closures of attractions and ferry services.
  • These variations mostly pertain to less popular islands.

Public Holidays

Holidays

  • New Year's Day (Jan 1).
  • Chinese New Year/Spring Festival (variable, late Jan/Feb).
  • Qingming Festival (early April).
  • Labor Day (May 1).

Holiday Considerations

  • Dragon Boat Festival (variable, June).
  • Mid-Autumn Festival (variable, Sep/Oct).
  • National Day/Golden Week (Oct 1-7).
  • Expect massive congestion and inflated prices during Chinese New Year and National Day Golden Week.

Planning Ahead

Check the public holiday calendar when planning your trip to avoid peak travel periods and ensure preferred services are available.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms

Engage respectfully with Zhoushan's local customs and traditions.

Greeting Customs

A simple "Nǐ hǎo" (hello) or a slight nod demonstrates respect. Handshakes are common, especially in formal settings. Address elders with respectful titles.

Appropriate Attire

Casual dress is generally acceptable. Modest attire (shoulders and knees covered) is appropriate for temples. Swimwear is for sands only.

Dining Practices

Do not stick chopsticks vertically in rice or point with them. Clinking glasses when toasting is common. Discreet burping is generally tolerated.

Photography Ethics

Respectful photography practices.

Guidelines for Photos

  • Photography is usually allowed in public areas.
  • Always seek permission before photographing individuals, especially in rural areas or at work.
  • At temples, check for restrictions on photography inside prayer halls or of statues.

Tipping & Taboos

Specific customs around gratuities and sensitive subjects.

Cultural Sensitivities

  • Tipping is not customary and may be an insult in most situations.
  • Avoid discussing controversial political subjects.
  • Do not show the soles of your feet towards people or religious images.

Gender & LGBTQ+

Gender Considerations

  • China is generally a conservative society.
  • Women traveling alone are generally safe.
  • Public spaces typically ensure safety for all genders.

LGBTQ+ Information

  • Homosexuality is not illegal.
  • Public displays of affection by same-sex couples may not be widely accepted.
  • Zhoushan lacks specific LGBTQ+-friendly establishments.

Cultural Sensitivity

Politeness and patience go a long way. When offering or receiving gifts, use both hands. It is polite to initially refuse an offer out of modesty.

Accessibility Information

Accessibility infrastructure is developing within China; plan carefully if you have mobility challenges.

Mobility Infrastructure

Accessibility infrastructure within China, including Zhoushan, is improving.

Challenges and Improvements

  • Newer buildings, airports, and major hotels may have ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms.
  • Older areas, public buses, and many small businesses often lack accessibility features.
  • Putuoshan Island has paved walkways and also numerous steps; electric shuttle buses are available.

Accessible Transport & Attractions

Options for accessible transport and attractions.

Navigating Zhoushan

  • Electric shuttle buses on Putuoshan offer some accessibility.
  • Major ferry terminals and bus stations might present accessible features.
  • Taxis and Didi provide door-to-door transport, though drivers may not have training to assist.

Visual & Hearing Impairments

Services for travelers with sensory impairments.

Assistance Details

  • Specialized services remain limited.
  • Signage is mainly in Cantonese, sometimes with Pinyin or English.
  • Consider carrying a printed card in Chinese explaining specific needs.

Accessibility Resources

Where to you can find information for accessible travel.

Finding Support

  • Information specifically for accessible travel to Zhoushan is scarce.
  • Research specific hotels or attractions directly.
  • Consider hiring a specialized tour operator if extensive assistance is necessary.

Note for Mobility-Impaired Travelers

Older Infrastructure

  • Older areas often lack modern accessibility features.
  • Public buses may not be wheelchair-friendly.
  • Many small businesses are not equipped for mobility aids.

Assistance Levels

  • Drivers for taxis and ride-share services may not be trained to assist.
  • Contacting venues directly for accessibility details is advisable.
  • Detailed pre-trip planning supports a smoother journey.

Preparation for All Travelers

Essential Items

  • Carry identification and copies of important documents.
  • Download offline maps and translation apps.
  • Take any necessary personal medications.

Local Contacts

  • Keep emergency numbers handy.
  • Store hotel contact details.
  • Consider travel insurance for unforeseen circumstances.

Recommendation

Direct communication with accommodations and sights prior to your visit provides clarity on specific accessibility features. Hiring a specific tour operator for comprehensive assistance is also an option.

Zhoushan Travel Tips. Money, Safety, Culture - MileHacker