Xiao Putuo (小普陀, Small Putuo), also known as Xiayu (霞屿), is situated in the heart of the expansive Dongqian Lake in Ningbo. It is one of the main scenic spots in the Dongqian Lake Tourist Resort, boasting a rich cultural heritage.
During the Southern Song Dynasty, the island was already home to Xiaoyu Zen Temple and Guanyin Cave (Bhikshu Cave). According to historical records in “Zhejiang Tongzhi” and “Yinxian Tongzhi”: Ye, the mother of Shi Hao, was a devout Buddhist who worshipped Guanyin. She had long wished to pilgrimage to Mount Putuo in the South Sea but, due to old age and blindness, crossing the sea was extremely inconvenient. Therefore, Shi Hao gathered skilled craftsmen to excavate a cave and establish a Guanyin dojo here. Once completed, they brought his mother onto a boat, which drifted in Dongqian Lake for three days, accompanied by the sounds of waves and winds, resembling a voyage at sea. Three days later, they arrived at Xiaoyu, where they falsely claimed to have reached “Mount Putuo in the South Sea,” fulfilling his mother’s long-standing wish, thus giving rise to the name “Xiao Putuo.”
The scenic area features a causeway connecting Taogong Mountain and Shajia Mountain, measuring 1700 meters long and 12 meters wide, offering beautiful scenery along the way. The causeway has three lanes: a central asphalt road for sightseeing vehicles and bicycles; on both sides, there are cobblestone-paved footpaths, separated by bushes and flower beds. Along the embankment are rows of weeping willows, providing a cool breeze during the summer, making it an ideal place for leisurely walks to escape the heat.
Moreover, Xiao Putuo often hosts various cultural activities such as Lantern Festival celebrations, integrating elements of drama, dance, and martial arts, bringing a different festive atmosphere to visitors. Additionally, watching the sunset by the lake is another highlight of Xiao Putuo. Visitors can chase the sunset along the lakeside, capturing mesmerizing photos and experiencing the infinite relaxation and healing power of nature.
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | 1 – 2 hours |
| Ticket Price | Free |
| Opening Hours | 8.00 – 18.00 |
| Telephone Number | 0086-0574-83015959 0086-0574-88373737 |
Location and Transportation
Xiao Putuo is located at No. 41, Taogong New Village, Dongqian Lake, Yinzhou District, Ningbo, Zhejiang Province, China, approximately 15 kilometers to the east of downtown Ningbo. To get to the area, you can take bus 901 or 907 and get off at Huxin Scenic Area Stop (湖心景区站).
