Shengshan Island (嵊山岛) – green ruins and the edge of dawn
Shengshan Island is the easternmost inhabited island of China, a place of astonishing beauty and an atmosphere of abandonment. Here you will find the famous Houtouwan village, slowly being swallowed by nature as ivy covers the houses. And on the sheer cliffs you can welcome the first sunrise in the Middle Kingdom.
Over two days we will explore the green ruins, climb the cliffs, walk to the neighbouring Gouqi Island with its mussel farms, and enjoy the silence and fresh air. This journey is for those who seek unusual shots and want to see a different side of China.
Top attractions of Shengshan
What to expect
- Early departure from Shanghai — meeting at Nanpu Bridge station (or at your address if you choose the car option), boarding a bus or car to Shenjiawan port.
- Ferry to Shengshan — about 2–2.5 hours, enjoy the sea views.
- Arrival and check‑in at a guesthouse — rest and seafood lunch.
- Walk along Western Bay — the best sunset views.
- Dinner and overnight on the island.
- Second day: early wake‑up — go to Eastern Cliff to watch the sunrise.
- Breakfast and visit to the abandoned Houtouwan village — walk among the green ruins, photo session.
- Walk across the bridge to Gouqi Island — mussel farms, beach, lunch.
- Return to Shanghai by evening ferry and bus (or by rented car).
Sample two‑day itinerary
*Times may vary depending on ferry schedules and weather.
| Day / Time | Program stage | Details and transport |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1, 07:00 | Meeting at Nanpu Bridge station (Shanghai) | Meeting with guide, boarding bus to Shenjiawan port. With car rental – transfer from your address. |
| 07:30–09:30 | Bus to the port | About 1.5–2 hours. By car the same. |
| 10:00–12:30 | Ferry to Shengshan Island | Tickets bought in advance (≈150¥). Travel time about 2.5 hours. Car stays at paid port parking. |
| 12:30–13:30 | Check‑in, lunch | Lunch at a local restaurant (seafood, 60–80¥). |
| 13:30–16:30 | Walk along Western Bay | Walking along the bay, beautiful views, photos. |
| 17:00–19:00 | Sunset at Western Bay | Enjoy the sunset, dinner at a café. |
| 19:30 | Return to hotel, rest | Early night to wake up before dawn. |
| Day 2, 04:30 | Wake‑up, departure to Eastern Cliff | Taxi or arranged transfer (about 20 minutes). |
| 05:00–06:30 | Sunrise at the cliff | The easternmost sunrise in China – an unforgettable sight. |
| 06:30–08:30 | Return, breakfast, packing | Breakfast at the hotel. |
| 09:00–11:30 | Abandoned Houtouwan village | Entry ticket 60¥. Walk among the green ruins, photos. |
| 11:30–13:30 | Gouqi Island (across the bridge) | Lunch on the island, walk to the mussel farms. |
| 13:30–14:30 | Return to Shengshan port | Taxi (about 20 minutes). |
| 15:00–17:30 | Ferry back | Ferry departure, tickets in advance. |
| 17:30–19:30 | Bus to Shanghai / car transfer | Return to Shanghai, end of program. |
💡 Important notes:
- Ferry tickets must be bought at least 3–5 days in advance (especially in high season).
- Bring insect repellent – there are many mosquitoes in the abandoned village.
- Comfortable footwear is essential – you will walk a lot, including on stones.
- Camera – the place is incredibly photogenic.
Cost and conditions
Tour cost
Services of a Russian‑speaking guide, help with tickets, guesthouse booking, route planning, full 2‑day accompaniment. Transfer to the port by bus (tickets paid separately).
Guide services + sedan rental (up to 4 people) for the whole tour, including transfer from Shanghai to the port and back.
Estimated expenses per person
Duration
Additional services
Frequently asked questions
Important information
The indicated prices are valid at the time of the offer for private individuals. The cost and availability of ferry tickets, hotels and guide services may change.
Booking of services is made only after receiving a prepayment. The exchange rate is calculated at the current rate.
If the booking is cancelled less than 7 days before the start of the event, the payment is not refundable.
In case of ferry cancellations due to weather conditions, we will offer alternative dates or refund the prepayment for guide services (transport tickets are refunded according to the carrier's rules).
