Putuoshan (普陀山) – The Sacred Island of Guanyin
Putuoshan is one of the four sacred mountains of Chinese Buddhism, dedicated to the bodhisattva Guanyin, the embodiment of compassion and mercy. This island in the East China Sea has been a major centre of pilgrimage and spiritual search for over a thousand years. The combination of majestic marine nature, ancient architecture and a unique atmosphere of grace makes it a special place of power.
Putuoshan is not just an open‑air museum, but a living, active religious complex. Here you can immerse yourself in the rhythm of monastic life, see devotees from all over the world, observe Buddhist ceremonies and perhaps find peace of mind. The island is home to three great temples: Puji, Fayu and Huiji, as well as dozens of other shrines, pagodas and the famous 33‑meter statue of Nanhai Guanyin.
Main shrines and attractions of Putuoshan
What awaits you
- Meeting and departure from Shanghai — we will pick you up from a metro station (usually around 7:00–8:00) and drive to Zhujiajian Pier (蜈蚣峙码头) (4–4.5 hours).
- Ferry to the island — 15–20 minutes, and you are on sacred ground.
- Visit key shrines — Guanyin Statue (南海观音), temples Puji (普济禅寺), Fayu (法雨禅寺), Huiji (慧济禅寺), Fanyin Cave (梵音洞), “Thousand Steps” beach (千步沙).
- Overnight in a comfortable guesthouse (民宿) in the centre of the island – to calmly enjoy the atmosphere of evening Putuoshan.
- Sunrise on the beach — an unforgettable sight for early risers.
- Cable car up to Foding Mountain (佛顶山) — panoramic view of the island and the sea.
- Vegetarian monastery cuisine tasting (素菜) — authentic lunches at the temples (~50 yuan).
- Free time for photos and meditation — the guide will suggest the best angles and quiet corners.
Approximate two‑day tour schedule
*Times may be adjusted depending on the weather and your wishes.
| Time | Day 1 | Day 2 |
|---|---|---|
| 07:00 – 11:00 | Departure from Shanghai, drive to Zhujiajian Pier | Wake up (optional – sunrise on “Thousand Steps” beach) |
| 11:00 – 12:00 | Ferry to the island, arrival, transfer to hotel | Breakfast, check‑out from hotel |
| 12:00 – 13:30 | Guanyin Statue, ‘Refusing‑to‑leave’ Monastery | Fayu Temple |
| 13:30 – 14:30 | Lunch (vegetarian at Puji Temple) | Lunch |
| 14:30 – 16:30 | Puji Temple, ‘Hundred Steps’ beach, check‑in | Cable car up to Foding Mountain, Huiji Temple |
| 16:30 – 18:00 | Walk on West Hill (西天景区) – optional | Fanyin Cave and Shancaigou Grotto |
| 18:00 – 20:00 | Dinner, free time, overnight stay | Return to the pier, ferry, departure to Shanghai |
| 20:00 – 23:00 | — | Drive to Shanghai, arrival |
💡 Important notes:
- Sea weather is changeable – bring a windbreaker.
- Comfortable shoes are a must: lots of walking and stairs.
- Cash in small bills for buses and donations.
- The cable car operates until 17:00 – plan your ascent in advance.
Cost and conditions
Tour cost (2 days / 1 night)
By car
ComfortSedan (1–3 pers.). Guide services, transfer from Shanghai and back.
Additional expenses
Duration
Additional services
Frequently asked questions
Important information
Respect for traditions: Putuoshan is an active religious site. Keep quiet inside the temples, follow the guide’s instructions.
Weather and sea connection: In case of a storm warning, ferry service may be suspended. The organiser is not responsible for changes to the program due to weather conditions.
Physical exertion: The route includes long walks and stair climbs. It is recommended to realistically assess your physical fitness.
Booking and payment: The indicated prices are valid at the time of offer. Booking is confirmed after receiving a prepayment. Cancellation 72 hours or less – no refund.
What is not included: The basic cost of guide and organisation services does not include entrance tickets, ferry, cable car, meals, personal expenses and donations.
📖 Legends and secrets of Putuoshan (普陀山) for guide only
These stories can be told at different points of the route to bring the landscapes to life and amaze the tourists.
In 847, the Japanese monk Egaku was bringing a statue of Guanyin to Japan, but off the coast of Putuoshan the lotuses tied to the statue became entangled in seaweed and the ship could not move. The monk understood that Guanyin wished to stay here. He built a hut, and later a temple called ‘Refusing‑to‑leave’ was erected on this spot.
The statue was erected in 1997 from bronze, its height is 33 metres and weight about 70 tons. It faces the sea, symbolising protection for all who sail in these waters. At the entrance, everyone is given three free sticks of incense – do not refuse, it is a sign of respect.
The main temple of the island was built in the 10th century. In front of it is a large pond with three stone bridges. According to belief, men who cross the central bridge find good fortune in their careers. The goldfish in the pond bring wealth.
The temple is known for its unique ‘Nine Dragons’ carving, a gift from the Kangxi Emperor. It is believed that this temple is especially favourable to women – they can pray for family happiness and the birth of children.
If you walk from Fayu Temple to Huiji Temple, you must climb 1088 stone steps. In Buddhism, the number 108 symbolises the 108 earthly passions – by overcoming them, you purify your karma. We will go by cable car, but if someone wants to test their fate – they can climb on foot.
The sound of the waves in this cave resembles Buddhist chants – hence the name ‘Cave of the Buddhist Sound’. Many believers come here to meditate. Nearby is the Shancaigou Grotto (善财洞), where people pray for wealth.
📍 Where to use: at the Guanyin statue – the legend of manifestation; at Puji Temple – about the pond; at Fayu – about the emperor; at the cable car – about the stairs; at the cave – about the Buddhist sounds.