The Chengsi Islands (乘泗列岛) form an extensive archipelago where the Qiantang River and the Yangtze River meet the sea. The archipelago comprises over 400 islands, including Dayangshan, Xiaoyangshan, Shenjiawan Island, and Bodaoxuizui Island, with 16 of these islands being inhabited. The largest island, Sijiao Island, spans an area of 21.2 square kilometers.
The Chengsi Islands are recognized as a national-level scenic area in China, often referred to as “Fairy Mountain on the Sea” due to their stunning natural beauty. The islands are renowned for their pristine seas, unique rock formations, and the picturesque sight of fishing lights at night. There are over 50 recognized scenic spots, with the most concentrated areas of attractions found on Sijiao Island, Huanglong Island, Shengshan Island, and Huaniao Island.
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Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | 1 – 2 days |
| Ticket Price | Each island has its own admission fee |
| Opening Hours | 24 hours a day throughout the year |
| Telephone Number | 0086-0580-5070706 |
Location and Transportation
The Chengsi Islands, administered by Shengsi County, are located east of Hangzhou Bay and southeast of the Yangtze River estuary. This archipelago is formed by hundreds of islands at the confluence of the Qiantang River and the Yangtze River as they meet the sea.
The Chengsi Islands are a group of islands including Sijiao Island (the main island), Gouqi Island, Shengshan Island, and Huadao Island. Typically, visitors first go to Sijiao Island and then travel to the other islands.
From Shenjiawan Wharf or Sanjia Wharf: Ferries are available to Sijiao Island, the main gateway to the Chengsi Islands.
Gouqi Island: Depart from Sijiao Island via Xiaocaiyuan Wharf. Reference departure times: 7:30 AM, 8:50 AM, 1:10 PM.
Huadao Island: Depart from Sijiao Island via Xiaocaiyuan Passenger Wharf. Reference departure times: 7:30 AM, 1:10 PM.
Shengshan Island: Depart from Sijiao Island via Xiaocaiyuan Passenger Wharf. Reference departure times: 7:30 AM, 8:50 AM, 1:10 PM.
Highlights of Chengsi Islands
Maritime Entertainment
One of the greatest pleasures of the Chengsi Islands is maritime entertainment. The “fishing joy” experience is a standout local activity, offering tourists a chance to engage in the traditional fishing lifestyle. Other popular activities are centered around the two main beaches, Jihu Beach and Nan Changtu Beach. These include yacht tours around the islands, beach bonfires, sea fishing, shell and crab hunting on the beach, seafood tasting, beach barbecues, sea fishing, learning to row traditional wooden boats, and water cycling. In the county town of Shengsi, entertainment facilities are well-developed, encompassing KTV, bars, cafes, tea houses, gyms, billiard rooms, game rooms, foot massage centers, and discos, providing a wide range of options for visitors.
Blue-Green Sea
The climate of the Chengsi Islands is moderate, with no extreme heat in summer or severe cold in winter, making it an ideal year-round vacation destination. However, spring, summer, and autumn are the most popular times to visit, with summer being the peak season. From late spring (May) to mid-autumn (October), the seawater around Huadao Island turns a beautiful blue-green, contrasting sharply with the muddy waters often seen near Shanghai. During summer and autumn (July-September), the island scenery is at its best, with deep blue waters and abundant sunshine. However, this period is also prone to typhoons, so it is advisable to monitor weather forecasts before traveling.
Food Festivals
July and August mark the fishing off-season, resulting in less seafood availability and higher prices. Nonetheless, the cool breezes and diverse beach barbecues make for an enjoyable summer night. At the end of July, Sidu Island hosts the Shengsi Mussel Festival, adding a vibrant cultural dimension to the islands. From late autumn to early spring (December-May), seafood is particularly plentiful and delicious, making it the best time to indulge in local marine delicacies. Autumn and winter are prime seasons for crabs, while spring is known for its plump, tender squid.