Dongji Island, Zhoushan – Lijiang on the Sea

Originating in the late 1980s, Dongji fishermen’s paintings have evolved into a vibrant artistic community, nurturing over 200 artists in the past two decades. Depicting the picturesque life of a fishing village against the backdrop of the sea, these paintings exude a modern folk artistry. They portray the fishermen’s daily activities and livelihoods with a unique style that blends freedom, innocence, and poetic expression. Unlike traditional folk art’s simplicity or academic art’s constraints, Dongji fishermen’s paintings showcase a distinct and free-spirited portrayal of life by the sea, characterized by rich subject matter and unique artistic techniques.

Located in the central part of the Zhongjieshan Archipelago, Miaozihu Island serves as the administrative center of Dongji Town in Putuo District. Surrounded by clear waters teeming with marine life, it provides an excellent environment for aquaculture. Legend has it that Miaozihu Island was inhabited as early as the early Qing Dynasty, but human activity declined during the mid-Qing Dynasty due to pirate raids. However, after the suppression of pirates, fishermen returned to the island to engage in fishing activities. According to folklore, Fujianese fishermen were among the first settlers on the island, where they found a small temple and a pond. They named the temple “Miaozi” and the pond “Hu,” hence the name Miaozihu Island. Tourists can explore its natural wonders, including unique peaks and rocks, indulge in sea fishing, taste freshly caught seafood, and enjoy beachcombing. Moreover, Miaozihu Island has served as a filming location for numerous movies due to its stunning scenery and tranquil ambiance.

Located west of Miaozihu Island, Qingbang Island is a picturesque gem in the Dongji Archipelago. Stretching approximately 2.45 kilometers in length and 0.8 kilometers in width, this island boasts lush greenery and vibrant flora, creating a verdant landscape reminiscent of a botanical paradise. During the spring and summer months, the island bursts into a kaleidoscope of colors, with emerald green grasslands complemented by azure-blue waters surrounding its shores. Inhabited since the Qing Dynasty, Qingbang Island has been a hub for maritime activities such as fishing and agriculture. The island’s traditional houses, constructed against the mountains using stones sourced from Dongji, stand in majestic tiers, resembling the architectural splendor of the Potala Palace. Thus, Qingbang Island has earned the moniker “The Potala Palace of the Sea,” captivating visitors with its natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Nestled at the easternmost tip of the Dongji Archipelago lies Dongfushan, a remote and enchanting island known as the “birthplace of wind, incubator of rain, kingdom of fog, and cradle of waves” by local fishermen. With an area of only 2.95 square kilometers and a population of fewer than 50 permanent residents, reaching Dongfushan is an adventure in itself, requiring a two-day journey and multiple boat transfers across four islands. Travelers trade conventional transportation for rugged terrain, transitioning from trucks to pickup vehicles and from ferries to small fishing boats. Despite its remoteness, Dongfushan offers an unparalleled experience as the premier spot to witness the dawn’s first light, earning it the reputation as the ideal destination for sunrise enthusiasts. As the site of the “first sunrise of the new millennium,” Dongfushan beckons visitors seeking awe-inspiring natural wonders and untouched beauty.

Caibogong Statue commemorates the legacy of a Fujianese fisherman who became the first person to arrive at Dongji Island, also known as the easternmost point of Dongji Archipelago. Legend has it that Chen Caibo was stranded on the island after his boat capsized during a storm while he was fishing at sea. Sensing the treacherous waves surrounding the island, he would light a beacon fire during typhoon weather to warn mainland fishermen of the dangers, effectively guiding them away from potential shipwrecks.

Over time, mainland fishermen mistook Chen Caibogong’s actions for the work of a divine being, believing that the fires he lit served as a celestial guide. They followed the direction of the fires, successfully navigating through their fishing expeditions without encountering any storms. However, when the fires ceased to appear one day, the fishermen embarked on a journey to find the supposed deity responsible for guiding them. After an extensive search, they discovered four islands, including the Miaozihu Island (also known as Middle Street Mountain Archipelago), where they found Chen Caibogong’s remains.

Realizing that Chen Caibogong was not a deity but a benevolent fisherman who selflessly helped others, the fishermen honored his memory by constructing a statue in his name. Today, Caibogong Temple stands as a testament to his altruism and compassion, serving as a place of reverence for locals and visitors alike. It is a poignant reminder of Chen Caibogong’s selfless devotion to protecting his fellow fishermen, even in the face of peril, and his enduring legacy of kindness and generosity.