Shengsi Island

Shanghai, China

The newly popularized Shengsi Island is actually an archipelago that encompasses over 400 islands, mostly small in size. The Shengsi County Archipelago is part of the province of Zhejiang, China. The place has been granted National Scenic Area status and is the only archipelago to make the list. The close proximity that it shares with the Shanghai metropolis makes it a hotspot for residents and tourists alike seeking peace and tranquility. It helps that the islands have very small local populations, making the beaches, flora and fauna none the worse for wear due to artificial development.

The entry point to the islands is basically from Sijiao Island (main island on Shengsi) and the best time to travel is from July to September; thought the weather is mostly mild. When travelling from Shanghai, visitors travel from the Nanpu Bridge bus terminal and go all the way to Shenjiawan terminal where a ferry takes them to either Shengsi or Gouqi. The tickets can be purchased (cash only) at three dedicated windows at the Nanpu Bridge terminal for same day travel, next day travel to Shengsi (only) or next day travel to Shengsi or Gouqi. There is no option for reservations in advance of more then one day. Travel may also be suspended due to unfavorable weather conditions. However, if visitors have booked a stay at one of the islands, the management usually is willing to book on the behest of the guest with an extra service charge. Passports/ IDs are required and tickets sell out really fast on weekends and national holidays. They may even raise prices if demand far outweighs availability and tickets are reserved to 3 per person at peak periods.

Once at the islands, pristine beaches, plethora of sea-life (and seafood!) and wonderful topography awaits guests. A great activity is to trek or cycle around the peaceful land absorbing the atmosphere. Paddle boats are available at a nominal hourly charge and beaches are free. There are many scenic views to take in. However, due to viral photos in 2015, the abandoned village of Houtouwan in Gouqi has become a tourist magnet with its uninhabited houses completely overtaken with wild undergrowth. The Government has taken steps to promote sustainable tourism by building a viewing platform that gives a birds’ eye view of the ethereal town, putting a ticket for trekking through the town and limiting interaction with the delicate architecture.

Both Gouqi and Shengsi are considered major sea food farmlands in all of China so it is only natural that visitors sample the local fare when in town. The ‘Little Yellow Croaker’ (Thexiao Huang Yu) is a pan-seared delicacy but octopus, crab, fish, squid and clam can also be had freshly barbequed along with vegetables. Or tourists can have their own catch freshly made at the kitchen of their hotel at a charge. Not much else is available besides sea food so for those averse to it, plan to bring your own choice of food to enjoy at the island.

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