Where to Stay in Zhoushan
Cheapest areas, hostel districts, and budget tips
Quick Answer
Stay in Shenjiamen District
Offers the most affordable accommodation and dining options.
See full Zhoushan neighbourhood guideTop 3 Areas to Stay in Zhoushan
Most affordable areas with the best value accommodation
Shenjiamen District
A vibrant fishing port area with a lively atmosphere and fresh seafood.
Our top picks in Shenjiamen District
Clean and basic rooms in a convenient location for exploring the port.
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Dinghai District
The bustling administrative and commercial heart of Zhoushan, offering a blend of city life and coastal access.
Our top picks in Dinghai District
A well-established hotel offering comfortable rooms and good amenities.
Book NowModern hotel with excellent service and convenient location.
Book NowA reliable budget-friendly option for a clean and basic stay.
Book NowPutuo District (Putuoshan Island)
A sacred Buddhist island known for its temples, serene atmosphere, and stunning natural beauty.
Our top picks in Putuo District (Putuoshan Island)
Basic but clean accommodation, ideal for budget travelers seeking proximity to temples.
Book NowWe earn a small commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you.
Neighbourhood Comparison for Backpackers
| Neighbourhood | Budget | Vibe | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
#1Shenjiamen District | Budget | A vibrant fishing port area with a lively atmosphere and fresh seafood. | foodiesbudget |
Dinghai District | Mid-range | The bustling administrative and commercial heart of Zhoushan, offering a blend of city life and coastal access. | first-timersfoodies |
Putuo District (Putuoshan Island) | Mid-range | A sacred Buddhist island known for its temples, serene atmosphere, and stunning natural beauty. | culturecouples |
Find budget-friendly hostels in Zhoushan
Affordable stays in the best backpacker areas
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Tips for Backpackers in Zhoushan
Book Hostels with Kitchens
Self-catering saves significant money in Zhoushan. A hostel with a good kitchen can cut your food budget by half.
Walk Where Possible
Many city centres are walkable. Save transport money for longer journeys and use your feet for neighbourhood exploring.
Find Free Activities
Free walking tours, museum free days, parks, and markets are everywhere. Ask hostel staff for the best free experiences.
Carry a Water Bottle
A refillable bottle saves money and plastic. Many cities have free water fountains; check the local tap water safety first.
Find free walking tours in Zhoushan
Budget-friendly ways to explore
Best Neighborhoods for Backpackers
Ranked by relevance for backpackers visiting Zhoushan
Shenjiamen District
BudgetA vibrant fishing port area with a lively atmosphere and fresh seafood.
- +Unbeatable fresh seafood dining
- +Authentic local atmosphere
- +Affordable accommodation and food options
- -Can be noisy and smell of fish
- -Limited tourist attractions beyond the port
- -Less polished than other districts
Dinghai District
Mid-rangeThe bustling administrative and commercial heart of Zhoushan, offering a blend of city life and coastal access.
- +Central location with good transport links
- +Wide range of dining and shopping options
- +Access to historical and cultural sites
- -Can be crowded and noisy
- -Less scenic than coastal areas
Putuo District (Putuoshan Island)
Mid-rangeA sacred Buddhist island known for its temples, serene atmosphere, and stunning natural beauty.
- +Incredibly spiritual and peaceful environment
- +Beautiful natural scenery and coastline
- +Rich Buddhist culture and history
- -Limited dining and entertainment options outside of temples
- -Can be very crowded during religious holidays
- -Requires ferry access, adding travel time
Daily Budget (Budget)
CNY 300/day
Hidden Gems in Zhoushan
Lesser-known spots the locals love
Dongsha Ancient Town
FREEStep back in time in this remarkably preserved ancient fishing town, characterized by its stone-paved alleys and traditional wooden houses.
Xiaomei Street Market
FREEImmerse yourself in the vibrant local life at this bustling market, where you can find fresh seafood, local produce, and daily necessities.
Shouye Seafood Restaurant
Savor authentic, freshly caught seafood prepared with local Zhoushan flavors at this popular spot favored by residents for its quality and taste.
Our Top 5 Favourite Tours in Zhoushan
Hand-picked guided experiences you can book in advance on GetYourGuide.
Zhoushan Walking Tour: Highlights & Hidden Gems
Discover Zhoushan on foot with a local guide who knows every backstreet and story. You will cover the must-see landmarks and stumble upon places most visitors never find.
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Zhoushan Food Tour: Street Food & Local Favourites
Eat your way through Zhoushan with a local foodie as your guide. From bustling markets to tucked-away restaurants, taste the dishes the city is truly known for.
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Best of Zhoushan: Skip-the-Line Top Attractions
Skip the queues and get straight into Zhoushan's top attractions with pre-booked access. An expert guide brings each site to life with stories and context you would not get on your own.
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Day Trip from Zhoushan: Scenic Excursion
Escape Zhoushan for the day and explore the stunning surroundings. Transport, guide, and itinerary are all sorted so you can relax and enjoy the scenery.
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Zhoushan Cultural Experience: History & Traditions
Go beyond sightseeing and connect with Zhoushan's living culture. From hands-on workshops to historic neighbourhood walks, this is the side of the city most travellers miss.
View Tour DetailsWe earn a small commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you. This helps us keep FindYourStay free.
1 area to be cautious about
Read our full safety guide for Zhoushan
Backpackers in Zhoushan: FAQ
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