Zhoushan (舟山)

1. Introduction

Zhoushan City is a prefecture-level city under the jurisdiction of Zhejiang Province, People's Republic of China. It is located in the northeastern part of Zhejiang Province, in the southeastern part of the Yangtze River Delta urban agglomeration. Its land administrative area consists exclusively of the Zhoushan Archipelago, which is composed of 2,085 islands (including 141 inhabited islands; the total number of islands and reefs is 4,696). The archipelago is situated in the East China Sea, south of the Yangtze River Estuary and on the outer edge of Hangzhou Bay, representing the submerged extension of the Tiantai Mountain Range. Both the city's and the archipelago's names originate from Zhoushan Island, the location of the historical administrative center and the largest island in the archipelago. It is also China's third-largest island (under actual control, claimed as the fourth largest). In addition to 1,440 km² of land from islands and reefs, Zhoushan City also administers 20,800 km² of sea area, which contains China's largest marine fishing ground, the Zhoushan Fishing Ground. The port areas of Zhoushan and Ningbo together form the world's largest port—Ningbo-Zhoushan Port. Furthermore, Zhoushan Port is the world's fifth-largest bunkering port. The Cihai characterizes Zhoushan as "an important port and fishery base on China's eastern coast."

Since the establishment of a county and the construction of a city wall in the 26th year of the Kaiyuan era of the Tang Dynasty (738 AD), the administrative status of the archipelago has been primarily influenced by national political, military, and economic policies, remaining volatile throughout history. After periods of abolition, restoration, and re-abolition, Prime Minister Wang Anshi of the Northern Song Dynasty proposed the establishment of Changguo County in the 6th year of the Xining era (1073). Due to coastal defense needs during the Yuan Dynasty, its status was elevated directly to a prefecture. However, with the implementation of the "Sea Ban" policy in the early Ming Dynasty, its political status plummeted, first being downgraded to a county and later abolished again. Influenced by the Ming-Qing war, especially the Ming Zheng regime, the early Qing government enforced an even stricter sea ban, relocating all residents of the archipelago. The sea ban was lifted during the Kangxi era, leading to the archipelago's revival. In the 20th year of the Daoguang era (1840), Dinghai became a main battlefield in the First Opium War due to its geographical location and was captured by British forces. After the British withdrawal, Dinghai County was directly elevated to a directly-administered subprefecture (Zhili Ting) due to coastal defense needs. Following the Xinhai Revolution, it was downgraded back to a county. In 1953, the Zhoushan Special District was established, later changed to a prefecture. In 1987, the prefecture was abolished and a city was established, making Zhoushan China's only prefecture-level city established on an archipelago before the establishment of Sansha City. In 2011, the State Council approved the establishment of the Zhoushan Archipelago New Area, encompassing the entire Zhoushan City. This became the fourth national-level new area and the first with a marine economy theme, marking another new phase of comprehensive development for the Zhoushan Archipelago driven by national policy.

In recent years, Zhoushan City has primarily developed a "1+4" signature industrial system led by green petrochemicals, supported by shipbuilding and marine engineering, marine biology, marine electronic information, and modern fisheries. In July 2015, the Zhoushan Green Petrochemical Base was established and construction began. In April 2016, the State Council approved the establishment of the China Zhoushan River-Sea Intermodal Service Center. In April 2017, the China (Zhejiang) Pilot Free Trade Zone was established, with all three initial sections located within the Zhoushan Archipelago New Area, focusing on the entire oil and gas industry chain. In 2022, Zhoushan City's per capita GDP surpassed that of Hangzhou and Ningbo, making it the top-ranked prefecture-level city in Zhejiang Province. The Zhoushan City Territorial Space Master Plan (2021–2035) (Draft) positions Zhoushan as a "National Marine Economy Pilot Zone, an International Maritime Hub for Opening-up in the Yangtze River Delta, a Demonstration Zone for Marine and Island Ecological Civilization Construction, a Famous Historical and Cultural City of Islands, and a Modern Marine City with Archipelago Characteristics," with a development vision of "Free Trade Port, Maritime Garden City."

2. Etymology

The name "Zhoushan" of Zhoushan City originates from its geographical environment and historical background. According to historical records, the name of Zhoushan City can be traced back to the Tang Dynasty. During the Tang Dynasty, the Zhoushan area became an important military stronghold and economic center due to its strategic geographical location. The name "Zhoushan" is composed of the two characters "舟" (zhōu, meaning boat) and "山" (shān, meaning mountain), symbolizing "boats and mountainous islands."

3. History

3.1 Prehistoric Era

Wooden club tools used by primitive humans 40,000 years ago and fossilized mammalian bones have been discovered on the seabed of the Zhoushan sea area, indicating the coexistence of various Late Pleistocene mammals and ancient humans on the archipelago.

At least 5,000 years ago, during the Neolithic Age, modern humans were already thriving on the Zhoushan Archipelago, primarily engaged in primitive fishing and salt-making industries. Archaeological evidence comes from multiple discoveries, including the 1975 excavation at Shizilu, Baiquan, Dinghai; the 1978 excavation at Sunjiashan, Qushan, Daishan; and the 1979 excavation at Tangjiadun, Ma'ao, Dinghai.

3.2 Ancient Times

During the Spring and Autumn period, Zhoushan belonged to the State of Yue and was called "Yongdong," also known as "Haizhongzhou" (Islands in the Sea). During the Warring States period, Yue was conquered by Chu, and thus it came under Chu's rule. In the 25th year of King Zheng of Qin (222 BC), the Kuaiji Commandery was established, and Yongdong belonged to Maoxian County. This administrative affiliation continued through the Han Dynasty, the Three Kingdoms (Wu), the Jin Dynasty, and the Southern Dynasties (Song, Qi, Liang, Chen). In the 9th year of the Kaihuang era of the Sui Dynasty (589 AD), Kuaiji Commandery was changed to Wuzhou, and the three counties of Yin, Mao, and Yuyao were merged into Gouzhang County; thus, Yongdong belonged to Gouzhang County, Wuzhou. In the 4th year of the Wude era of the Tang Dynasty (621 AD), Gouzhang County was changed to Yinzhou, and Yongdong belonged to Yinzhou. In the 8th year (625 AD), Yinzhou was abolished, and Yongdong again belonged to Maoxian County.

In the 26th year of the Kaiyuan era of the Tang Dynasty (738 AD), Qi Huan, the Investigating Commissioner of Jiangnandong Circuit, submitted a memorial proposing to elevate the original Maoxian County to Mingzhou and divide it into four counties (Mao, Cixi, Fenghua, Wengshan). This marked the beginning of establishing counties on the archipelago. Because there was originally a Weng Mountain in the area, it was named "Wengshan County," governing three townships: Fudu, Anqi, and Penglai. The county seat was located at the foot of Zhen'ao Mountain in Fudu Township, where a city wall with a circumference of five li was built, initiating urban development. In the 1st year of the Baoying era (762 AD), the Fudu Supervisorate was established in Wengshan, subordinate to the Court's Salt and Iron Commissioner. In the same year, Yuan Chao led a peasant anti-rent uprising in Wengshan, establishing the era name "Baosheng." The uprising was suppressed the following year. In the 6th year of the Dali era (771 AD), Wengshan County was abolished and reincorporated into Maoxian County.

In the 3rd year of the Kaiping era of the Later Liang during the Five Dynasties period (909 AD), Mingzhou was elevated to Wanghaijun (a military prefecture), Maoxian County was renamed Yin County, and the former Wengshan area re-established Wengshan County, subordinate to Wanghaijun. In the 3rd year of the Taiping Xingguo era of the Northern Song Dynasty (978 AD), it was again abolished and incorporated into Yin County. In the 2nd year of the Duangong era (989 AD), a Patrol and Inspection Office was established.

During the Northern Song Dynasty, after a comprehensive analysis of the Maritime Silk Road trade, the imperial court recognized the importance of the Zhoushan Archipelago's island defenses for economic development and trade protection. At the request of Wang Anshi, the former magistrate of Yin County who was then the Grand Councilor, in July of the 6th year of the Xining era (1073 AD), Emperor Shenzong of Song, Zhao Xu, issued an edict to re-establish a county seat in the former Wengshan County area. Recognizing the locational advantage of the islands, the original name "Wengshan" was abandoned. With the meaning of "enriching the country and strengthening the military," it was renamed "Changguo County" (Prosperous Country County), "intending that it controls Japan to the east, connects Deng and Lai to the north, links Ou and Min to the south, and communicates with Wu and Hui to the west, truly a great barrier in the sea, sufficient to prosper and strengthen the nation's power." It governed the three townships of Fudu, Anqi, and Penglai, with the county seat still at the foot of Zhen'ao Mountain, continuing the revival of city construction. A statue of Wang Anshi exists today in the Taiping Temple on Liuheng Island.

In the 15th year of the Zhiyuan era of the Yuan Dynasty (1278 AD), due to its "strategic maritime location" and "population doubling ten thousand," the county was elevated to Changguo Zhou (a prefecture), implementing direct prefectural governance of townships. In the 17th year of the Zhiyuan era (1280 AD), the county was re-established, coexisting with the prefecture. In the 27th year of the Zhiyuan era (1290 AD), the county was abolished, and the prefecture was restored. During the Yuan Dynasty, Changguo had six city gates: Dongjiang Gate, Gen Gate, South Gate, Zhoushan Gate, West Gate, and Shangrong Gate.

In the 2nd year of the Hongwu era of the Ming Dynasty (1369 AD), it was demoted back to Changguo County. In the 12th year of the Hongwu era (1379 AD), the Changguo Garrison Qianhu Office was established, the city wall was repaired, and four gates were opened: Fengfu (East Gate), Yong'an (South Gate), Wenming (West Gate), and Taihe (East Gate). In the 17th year (1384 AD), the Changguo Guard was established. In the 20th year of the Hongwu era (1387 AD), affected by Japanese pirates (Wokou) and local pirates, following the "Sea Ban and Population Relocation" policy, Changguo County was directly abolished. The four townships were merged into one Changguo Township, belonging to Dinghai County, Ningbo Prefecture (now Zhenhai District, Ningbo City, not Dinghai District, Zhoushan City). The Changguo Guard was also relocated to Xiangshan County. Thereafter, the archipelago was no longer called Changguo but Zhoushan. Residents from the urban area and outside the town, along with residents from 46 other islands, were relocated inland. The archipelago's population decreased, and the economy regressed.

In the 1520s, Portuguese arrived in Zhoushan and, with the cooperation of some local merchants and pirates, established a port for trade and smuggling. In the 27th year of the Jiajing era of the Ming Dynasty (1548 AD), Zhu Wan, the Governor of Zhejiang, sent Commander Lu Tang to lead troops to attack Shuangyu Port on Fodu Island in Zhoushan, which was occupied by the Portuguese. Hundreds of Portuguese were killed, and the rest left by ship. In the 33rd year of the Jiajing era (1554 AD), Japanese pirates entered the city and looted it, damaging some buildings. In the 8th year of the Shunzhi era of the Qing Dynasty (1651 AD), Qing forces captured Zhoushan Island, and the city walls were destroyed again. Influenced by the Ming-Qing war, especially the Ming loyalist Zheng regime, the early Qing government implemented a stricter sea ban, relocating all residents of the archipelago.

After the Kangxi Emperor conquered Taiwan, the coastal ban was lifted, and the Zhoushan Archipelago began to revive. In May of the 26th year of the Kangxi era (1687 AD), a county was re-established. Because "using 'boat' (zhou) in the mountain name implies movement and not stillness," Zhoushan was changed to "Dinghaishan" (Stabilizing Sea Mountain), and Dinghai County was established the following year. However, the original seat of Dinghai County was actually located on the mainland of Zhejiang (present-day Zhenhai, Ningbo). Therefore, the original Dinghai County was simultaneously renamed Zhenhai County. A plaque inscribed by the Kangxi Emperor is preserved on the campus of Dinghai No.1 Middle School.

3.3 After the Opium War

During the First Opium War (1840-1842), British forces occupied Dinghai, Ningbo, twice. The first time, the British did not attack Guangzhou but turned to attack various coastal cities, capturing Dinghai. Later, the Qing court sent them back to the Guangzhou sea area to await withdrawal. The second time, due to mutual dissatisfaction, war resumed. The British forces moved north, capturing coastal cities, reoccupying Dinghai, and advancing to outside Jiangning (Nanjing), leading the Qing court to sue for peace. Both times, the British forces, following Qing systems, set up their own administrative offices for governance. According to the Treaty of Nanking, the British forces withdrew in the 26th year of the Daoguang era (1846 AD).

After the Opium War, in the 21st year of the Daoguang era (1841 AD), due to heightened coastal defense tensions, Dinghai County was upgraded to Dinghai Directly Administered Subprefecture (Dinghai Zhili Ting), directly under Zhejiang Province. This was the first time the Zhoushan area was upgraded. In April, Imperial Commissioner Yu Qian, citing that "the subprefecture city is surrounded by mountains on three sides, with only Daotou in the south facing the sea without any barrier," requested and received imperial approval to build an earthen wall at Daotou. The earthen wall had two gates, "Jiu'an" and "Changzhi," and was equipped with artillery positions. A plaque inscribed "Dinghai Daotou" exists today in Dinghai Seaside Park.

3.4 Republic of China Period

In the ninth month of the 3rd year of the Xuantong era of the Qing Dynasty (November 1911), Ningbo militia supporting the Xinhai Revolution took over the Dinghai Directly Administered Subprefecture, abolished the subprefecture, re-established it as a county, and placed it back under the jurisdiction of Ningbo City.

In 1937, Japan launched a full-scale invasion of China, and Zhoushan fell into Japanese hands. On October 1, 1942, the Japanese ship Lisbon Maru, transporting British prisoners of war to Japan, was torpedoed en route near Zhoushan by the USS Grouper of Submarine Division 81, US Pacific Fleet. The Japanese abandoned ship, and over a thousand British POWs perished. Local Chinese fishermen heroically rescued over 300 British soldiers.

In 1945, Japan surrendered after its defeat, and Zhoushan returned to the Republic of China. In the 38th year of the Republic of China (1949), due to wartime needs, the Republic of China government divided Dinghai County into two counties: Dinghai and Wengzhou (predecessor of Daishan County). Islands north of Majishan that belonged to Jiangsu were used to establish Jiangsu Province's Shengsi County. After the Nationalist forces' complete collapse on the mainland, they still used the Zhoushan Archipelago as one of their main footholds, continuously harassing the Yangtze River estuary area of the mainland. After the completion of Dinghai Airport, the Nationalist forces used it to launch fierce bombings on cities like Shanghai, Nanjing, and Hangzhou. Shanghai suffered particularly severe bombings, bringing this industrial city almost to a standstill, most famously the February 6th Great Bombing of Shanghai. The Nationalist forces' raids on mainland coastal areas strengthened the East China Military Region's resolve to capture the Zhoushan Archipelago, leading to the Zhoushan Campaign from August 1949 to May 1950. From October 11 to 14, 1949, Chiang Kai-shek personally visited the Zhoushan Archipelago, mobilizing troops that ultimately increased the Nationalist forces there to 90,000, while also strengthening defensive fortifications on Dengbu Island, hoping to hold Zhoushan Island. By the end of April 1950, based on the principle of prioritizing Taiwan, Chiang decided to withdraw troops from the Zhoushan Archipelago. From the night of May 13 to dawn on May 16, 1950, the Republic of China troops stationed in Zhoushan secretly withdrew from Zhoushan. Wengzhou County was effectively dissolved. This is known as the Zhoushan Evacuation.

3.5 People's Republic of China Period

On May 17, 1950, the Third Field Army of the East China Military Region formally occupied the Zhoushan Archipelago. This date is designated by the mainland Chinese government as "Zhoushan Liberation Memorial Day." In the same year, the Dinghai County People's Government was established, under the jurisdiction of the Ningbo Administrative Office. In March 1953, with the approval of the Government Administration Council, the area of Dinghai County was divided into three counties: Dinghai, Putuo, and Daishan. Shengsi County was transferred from Jiangsu Province, and the Zhoushan Administrative Office was established. In 1954, Xiangshan County was transferred from the Ningbo Administrative Office to Zhoushan but was transferred to the Taizhou Administrative Office in 1958. In 1959, Dinghai, Putuo, Daishan, and Shengsi counties were abolished and merged to form Zhoushan County. The Zhoushan Administrative Office then governed only Zhoushan County. On January 4, 1960, the Zhoushan Administrative Office was abolished, and Zhoushan County was placed under the Ningbo Administrative Office. In November of the same year, the affiliated Shengsi People's Commune was transferred to Shanghai Municipality. In May 1962, the Zhoushan Administrative Office was re-established, and Zhoushan County was abolished, divided into five counties: Dinghai, Putuo, Daishan, Daqu, and Shengsi (re-established as a county after being returned from Shanghai). In 1964, Daqu County was abolished, with its area divided between Daishan and Shengsi counties. Starting in March 1967, the Zhoushan Administrative Office was renamed the Zhoushan Prefecture. During the Cultural Revolution, the situation in Zhoushan Prefecture was turbulent. The Zhoushan Prefecture Revolutionary Committee was not established until April 6, 1971.

In January 1987, with the approval of the State Council, Zhoushan Prefecture and Dinghai and Putuo counties were abolished, and Zhoushan City was established. It governs two districts (Dinghai District, Putuo District) and two counties (Daishan County, Shengsi County), implementing a new system of city-led districts and counties.After the reform and opening-up, in 1986, the State Council and the Central Military Commission approved the opening of Zhoushan Port to the outside world (State Document No. 54 of 1986). The three port areas of Shenjiamen, Dinghai, and Laotangshan were merged into one port, collectively known as Zhoushan Port, which officially opened to the outside world. Starting from January 1, 2006, Ningbo Port and Zhoushan Port merged to form Ningbo Zhoushan Port. In 2007, the Zhoushan Port and Shipping Administration implemented the separation of government functions from enterprise management, and in 2010, it underwent corporatization, establishing the Zhoushan Port Group Co., Ltd. Since 2009, Ningbo Zhoushan Port has consistently ranked as the world's largest port.

At the end of 2009, the Zhoushan Cross-Sea Bridge was completed and opened to traffic, ending the history of relying solely on ships for transportation between the Zhoushan Archipelago and mainland Zhejiang. It also greatly promoted the integration of Ningbo Zhoushan Port.

In April 2017, the Zhejiang Pilot Free Trade Zone was established, covering a total area of 119.95 square kilometers across three sections: the Zhoushan Offshore Islands section (78.98 square kilometers), the northern Zhoushan Island section (15.62 square kilometers), and the southern Zhoushan Island section (25.35 square kilometers).

In March 2019, the comprehensive survey and design of the Ningbo-Zhoushan Railway was fully launched. The railway is planned with a target speed of 200 kilometers per hour, a total length of 77 kilometers, and will be capable of operating CRH trains. Upon completion, the railway will end the history of no train service in the Zhoushan Archipelago and will also be of great significance for improving the Ningbo railway hub and the transportation channels of Ningbo Port. The Xihoumen Special Bridge, with a main span of 1,488 meters, will become the world's longest-span combined road-rail bridge of its kind.

4. Geography

4.1 Topography

The administrative scope encompasses the entire Zhoushan Archipelago. There are a total of 1,390 islands of various sizes and 3,306 reefs, among which 103 islands are inhabited. As of the end of 2018, 67 islands had a registered population of over 50. Area: The total regional area is 22,200 square kilometers. Total coastline length: 2,444 kilometers Deep-water coastline length: 200.7 kilometers with water depth over 15 meters; 103.7 kilometers with water depth over 20 meters Zhoushan Main Island area: 44 kilometers from east to west, 18 kilometers from north to south, with a total land area of 502.65 square kilometers (including 26.48 square kilometers of high tidal flats) Total water resources: 690 million m³, of which groundwater totals 183 million m³ Composition of landform types in the Zhoushan Archipelago:

High Hills (9%) Low Hills (61%) Plains (30%)

4.2 Climate

Zhoushan has a climate characterized by hot summers and mild winters, distinct seasons, strong maritime influence, and significant monsoons, belonging to the subtropical monsoon climate. Major meteorological disasters include typhoons in summer and autumn (averaging 3-4 per year, with one causing severe impact), plum rain and heavy rainfall in June-July, and spring droughts.

Compared to the mainland areas of Zhejiang Province, Zhoushan's climate exhibits significant maritime characteristics. Firstly, the transition dates between seasons are later than those in Zhejiang mainland cities at the same latitude (such as Hangzhou). Secondly, the average high temperature of the hottest month is over 2°C lower than that of the provincial capital Hangzhou, with over 20 fewer days of high temperatures (≥35°C), making it an excellent summer retreat. The average temperature of the coldest month is over 1°C higher than that of the provincial capital, and the number of snowfall days is significantly lower. Even during the 2008 southern China snow disaster, which severely affected most of Zhejiang Province, Zhoushan basically experienced no snowfall. With global warming, temperatures in Zhoushan have been continuously rising in recent decades, and the frequency of high temperatures has been increasing. During the 2013 summer heatwave in southern China, an extreme high of 42.3°C was recorded. However, summers are typically still considerably cooler than inland areas.

Zhoushan (Dinghai) Perennial Season Transition Dates | | Spring | Summer | Autumn | Winter | |--------|---------|---------|---------|----------| | Transition Date | Mar 15/25 | Jun 8/25 | Oct 2/25 | Dec 8/25 | | Average Duration | 85 days | 116 days | 67 days | 97 days | | Hangzhou Perennial Transition | Mar 10/25 | May 20/25 | Sep 30/25 | Nov 28/25 | | Lag Days | 5 days | 19 days | 2 days | 10 days |

Regarding air quality, influenced by the ocean, Zhoushan's air quality is excellent, not only far superior to other areas in Zhejiang Province but also consistently ranking among the top three prefecture-level cities nationwide. However, after 2010, there has been a trend of increasing hazy days. During the severe haze event in central and eastern China in 2013, air quality readings once "went off the charts" (AQI exceeding 500), but haze conditions have eased somewhat in recent years.

Meteorological Data for Dinghai District, Zhoushan City (1981–2010) | Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | Year | |------------------|-------|-------|-------|-------|-------|-------|--------|--------|--------|-------|-------|-------|----------| | Record high °C (°F) | 22.7 | 26.6 | 30.4 | 32.1 | 32.9 | 35.7 | 40.2 | 42.3 | 38.6 | 32.6 | 28.7 | 27.5 | 42.3 | | | (72.9) | (79.9) | (86.7) | (89.8) | (91.2) | (96.3) | (104.4) | (108.1) | (101.5) | (90.7) | (83.7) | (81.5) | (108.1) | | Average high °C (°F) | 9.6 | 10.7 | 13.7 | 18.9 | 23.4 | 26.8 | 31.1 | 31.2 | 27.8 | 23.4 | 18.3 | 12.7 | 20.6 | | | (49.3) | (51.3) | (56.7) | (66.0) | (74.1) | (80.2) | (88.0) | (88.2) | (82.0) | (74.1) | (64.9) | (54.9) | (69.1) | | Daily mean °C (°F) | 5.9 | 6.8 | 9.8 | 14.5 | 19.3 | 23.2 | 27.2 | 27.5 | 24.2 | 19.6 | 14.4 | 8.6 | 16.7 | | | (42.6) | (44.2) | (49.6) | (58.1) | (66.7) | (73.8) | (81.0) | (81.5) | (75.6) | (67.3) | (57.9) | (47.5) | (62.2) | | Average low °C (°F) | 3.2 | 4.0 | 6.7 | 11.2 | 16.1 | 20.5 | 24.5 | 24.8 | 21.6 | 16.6 | 11.3 | 5.5 | 13.8 | | | (37.8) | (39.2) | (44.1) | (52.2) | (61.0) | (68.9) | (76.1) | (76.6) | (70.9) | (61.9) | (52.3) | (41.9) | (56.9) | | Record low °C (°F) | −6.1 | −4.9 | −3.0 | 0.8 | 7.2 | 12.8 | 17.9 | 18.8 | 12.6 | 5.7 | 0.6 | −4.4 | −6.1 | | | (21.0) | (23.2) | (26.6) | (33.4) | (45.0) | (55.0) | (64.2) | (65.8) | (54.7) | (42.3) | (33.1) | (24.1) | (21.0) | | Average precipitation mm (inches) | 70.9 | 71.6 | 136.6 | 109.5 | 121.4 | 178.8 | 123.3 | 179.2 | 182.2 | 102.8 | 76.3 | 60.1 | 1,412.7 | | | (2.79) | (2.82) | (5.38) | (4.31) | (4.78) | (7.04) | (4.85) | (7.06) | (7.17) | (4.05 | -3 | -2.37 | -55.62 | | Average precipitation days (≥ 0.1 mm) | 12.1 | 12.1 | 17 | 15 | 14.8 | 16.2 | 11.2 | 14.2 | 12.9 | 10.6 | 9 | 8.4 | 153.5 | | Average relative humidity (%) | 74 | 75 | 78 | 78 | 81 | 86 | 84 | 83 | 80 | 76 | 75 | 72 | 79 | | Monthly sunshine hours | 121.6 | 115.2 | 124.2 | 155.4 | 170.1 | 147.8 | 239.6 | 225.7 | 175 | 165.3 | 147.4 | 150.4 | 1,937.70 | | Percentage of possible sunshine | 38 | 37 | 34 | 40 | 40 | 35 | 56 | 55 | 47 | 47 | 46 | 48 | 44 |

5. Administrative Divisions

The Zhoushan Archipelago has historically been established as a county three times and abolished twice. During the three periods of county establishment, it was under the jurisdiction of Mingzhou (or Ningbo Prefecture) in the mainland of Zhejiang Province.

Zhoushan City currently administers 2 municipal districts and 2 counties.

Municipal Districts: Dinghai District, Putuo District
Counties: Daishan County, Shengsi County
In 2005, Zhoushan City established new-type fishing and rural communities, which to some extent perform the public management and service functions of villagers' committees.

Administrative Division Map of Zhoushan City | Division Code | Division Name | Ningbo Dialect IPA | Hanyu Pinyin | Area (km²) | Resident Population (2020 Census) | Government Seat | Postal Code | Subdistricts | Towns | Townships | |-------------------|-------------------|--------------------------------------|----------------------|----------------|---------------------------------------|---------------------|-----------------|------------------|-----------|---------------| | 330900 | Zhoushan City | [tɕiʏ˥˧꜓ sɛ˥˧ zɿ˨˩˧] | Zhōushān Shì | 1,454.70 | 1,157,817 | Dinghai District | 316000 | 14 | 17 | 5 | | 330902 | Dinghai District | [diŋ˩˧꜖ hɛ˧˥ tɕʰy˥˧꜒] | Dìnghǎi Qū | 572.19 | 500,030 | Changguo Subdistrict| 316000 | 10 | 3 | | | 330903 | Putuo District | [pʰu˥˧ dau˨ tɕʰy˥˧꜖] | Pǔtuó Qū | 461.48 | 382,902 | Shenjiamen Subdistrict | 316100 | 4 | 5 | | | 330921 | Daishan County | [de˩˧꜖ sɛ˥˧ ɦỹ˩˧] | Dàishān Xiàn | 324.13 | 207,982 | Gaoting Town | 316200 | | 6 | 1 | | 330922 | Shengsi County | [dzəŋ˩˧꜓ sɿ˦꜒꜔ ɦỹ˩˧] | Shèngsì Xiàn | 96.9 | 66,903 | Caiyuan Town | 202400 | | 3 | 4 |

6. Economy

As an archipelago city, Zhoushan has historically thrived on fishing, with the fishing industry serving as its pillar before industrialization. Prior to the reform and opening-up, Zhoushan's economy remained primarily based on the primary industry, following a "primary, secondary, tertiary" industrial structure. After the reform and opening-up, the secondary and tertiary industries developed rapidly, shifting to a "tertiary, secondary, primary" structure by 1995, which has persisted to this day. Although agriculture accounted for only 10.8% of the total output value in 2018, it received 19.6% of the fiscal allocation. Meanwhile, the "marine economy" has been increasing its share of the total economy, reaching 65.1% of the total output value by 2017.

Industrial Structure of Zhoushan City in 2018

Primary Industry (10.8%) Secondary Industry (32.5%) Tertiary Industry (56.7%)

Since the reform and opening-up, as large areas of farmland have been used for urban construction, the proportion of agriculture (cultivation) within the primary industry has continuously declined, as has forestry and animal husbandry, while fisheries have continued to rise, reaching 95% of the total output value of the primary industry by 2018.

Ratio of Total Fiscal Revenue to Regional GDP (2018): 16.6% Ratio of Expenditure on Culture, Education, Science, and Health to Fiscal Expenditure (2018): 20.9%

Structure of the Primary Industry in Zhoushan City in 2018

Agriculture (4.2%) Forestry (0.1%) Animal Husbandry (0.7%) Fisheries (95.0%)

7. Transportation

Both passenger and freight transportation in Zhoushan are primarily dominated by shipping (rather than road transport). The proportion of water transport in passenger traffic has been increasing year by year, surpassing road transport in 2014; its share in freight transportation saw a sudden rise between 2009 and 2011, followed by a slight decline in recent years. In 2018, water transport accounted for 53.1% of passenger volume and 72.8% of freight volume.

7.1 Maritime Transport

Maritime transport is the main channel for external transportation, with passenger ports such as Dinghai, Shenjiamen, Gaoting, and Sijiao, operating scheduled liners to cities like Shanghai, Ningbo, Wenzhou, and Fuzhou. Due to the risks associated with maritime transport, shipwrecks involving fishing boats and cargo vessels frequently occur in the waters near Zhoushan, sometimes resulting in significant casualties.

On May 8, 2024, the river-sea direct route from Zhoushan to Chongqing was launched, which is currently the longest river-sea direct route in China.

7.2 Highways

Highways, combined with vehicle ferry services, connect most areas within Zhejiang Province. Island transportation is well-developed, with shuttle buses available on major islands. Externally, the Zhoushan Cross-Sea Bridge (comprising the Cengang Bridge, Xiangjiaomen Bridge, Taoyaomen Bridge, Xihoumen Bridge, and Jintang Bridge) links the islands to the mainland. It is also the terminus of National Highway 329.

7.3 Major Roads

Renmin Road: The main north-south thoroughfare in Dinghai urban area, stretching from Dinghai Port Wharf in the south to Zhoushan Hospital Dinghai Campus in the north. It is divided into three sections: South Renmin Road, Middle Renmin Road, and North Renmin Road. South Renmin Road is composed of Gunanmenwai Street and Nandoutou Street.

Furongzhou Road: Formed by filling in the Furongzhou River. The Furongzhou River was originally the main waterway of Dinghai's eastern city. Its name dates back to the Song Dynasty, derived from the extensive lotus (historically called "furong") planted in the river near the then-county school (relocated here during the Song Dynasty), with several bridges spanning the river. In 1953, the Furongzhou River was filled in, becoming the main north-south thoroughfare in the southeastern part of old Dinghai. It was paved with stone slabs in 1964, renamed "Lixin Road" in 1966, repaved with cement in 1979, renamed "Furongzhou Lixin Road" in 1981, and finally changed to its current name, Furongzhou Road, in 1986. It now stretches 760 meters long and 10 meters wide, serving as a relatively bustling food and shopping street in Dinghai.

7.4 Expressways

Zhoushan is connected to the mainland via the G9211 Yongzhou Expressway. The main part of the expressway is the Zhoushan Cross-Sea Bridge, consisting of five bridges: Cengang Bridge, Xiangjiaomen Bridge, Taoyaomen Bridge, Xihoumen Bridge, and Jintang Bridge. It officially opened for trial operation on December 25, 2009.

7.5 Aviation

The archipelago currently has one civilian airport, Zhoushan Putuoshan Airport, located on Zhujiajian Island. There is a military airport on Daishan Island, built before the Nationalist government retreated to Taiwan. Currently, Zhoushan is planning to establish inter-island helicopter services.

8. Education

• Universities

Zhejiang Ocean University is the only undergraduate university headquartered in Zhoushan. The Ocean College of Zhejiang University (Zhejiang University Zhoushan Campus) is also located in Zhoushan. Additionally, Zhejiang International Maritime College primarily cultivates vocational and technical maritime talents.

• High Schools

Zhoushan High School, Putuo High School, Nanhai Experimental School, Putuo No. 3 High School, Baiquan High School, Dinghai No. 1 High School, Zhen'ao High School, Zhoushan No. 2 High School, Donghai High School, Kaiyuan High School, Daishan High School, Daqu High School, Dongsha High School, Shengsi High School, Liuheng High School, Jintang High School

• Middle Schools

Nanhai Experimental School, Dinghai No. 2 Middle School, Dinghai No. 3 Middle School, Dinghai No. 5 Middle School, Dinghai No. 6 Middle School, Cengang Middle School, Putuo No. 2 Middle School, Baiquan Middle School, Nanhai Middle School, Shenjiamen No. 1 Middle School, Zhujiajian Middle School, Donghai Middle School, Kaiyuan Middle School, Xiazi Middle School, Taimen Middle School, Jiaotou Middle School, Daqu Middle School, Donggang Middle School

• Vocational Schools

Zhoushan Vocational and Technical School, Shenjiamen Middle School, Zhoushan Navigation School, Kailing Middle School, Putuo Vocational Education Center, Daishan County Vocational and Technical School, Shengsi County Vocational Education Center

9. Population

During the Xining period of the Northern Song Dynasty (1068-1077): 23,014 principal households, 18,488 client households. In the 20th year of the Zhizheng era of the Yuan Dynasty (1360): 126,005 people, with an additional 1,358 monks and Taoists. In the 26th year of the Guangxu era of the Qing Dynasty (1900): 347,272 people. In the first year of the Republic of China (1912): 373,992 people. In 1950: 460,677 people. 1958 Census: 283,000 households, 935,000 people. The population density was 754 people/km², double that of Zhejiang Province and six times higher than the national average. Among them, the agricultural population was 445,000, accounting for 47.6%; the fishing population was 224,000, accounting for 24%; the salt industry population was 31,000, accounting for 3.3%; and the urban population was 235,000, accounting for 25.1%. The ethnic minorities have diverse origins, including family members brought back by educated youth who supported agriculture in Ningxia, as well as cadres and their families who moved south after liberation. They are scattered across various islands, not forming natural villages, primarily speaking Northern dialects, with very few speaking their native languages. According to the Seventh National Population Census in 2020, the city's permanent resident population was 1,157,817. Compared with the Sixth National Population Census figure of 1,121,261, the population increased by 36,556 over ten years, a growth of 3.26%, with an average annual growth rate of 0.32%. Among them, the male population was 611,522, accounting for 52.82% of the total population; the female population was 546,295, accounting for 47.18% of the total population. The overall sex ratio (with females as 100) was 111.94. The population aged 0–14 was 113,597, accounting for 9.81% of the total population; the population aged 15–59 was 756,127, accounting for 65.31% of the total population; the population aged 60 and above was 288,093, accounting for 24.88% of the total population, of which the population aged 65 and above was 197,848, accounting for 17.09% of the total population. The urban population was 832,390, accounting for 71.89% of the total population; the rural population was 325,427, accounting for 28.11% of the total population.

At the beginning of 2022, the city's permanent resident population was 1.165 million, an increase of 6,000 from the end of the previous year. The urbanization rate was 72.2%, an increase of 0.3 percentage points from the previous year.

• Ethnic Groups

Among the city's permanent resident population, the Han ethnic group numbered 1,142,889, accounting for 98.71%; ethnic minorities numbered 14,928, accounting for 1.29%. Compared with the 2010 Sixth National Population Census, the Han population increased by 33,076, a growth of 2.98%, with its proportion of the total population decreasing by 0.27 percentage points; the ethnic minority population increased by 3,480, a growth of 30.4%, with its proportion of the total population increasing by 0.27 percentage points.

10. Religion

Putuo Mountain is the sacred site of Guanyin (the Goddess of Mercy), so Buddhism is particularly prevalent among the residents of Zhoushan. At the same time, Taoism also has a certain foundation, with numerous temples and shrines scattered across the islands and villages. During Buddhist activities, locals do not refer to themselves as "residents of such-and-such village in such-and-such township," but rather as "disciples under the domain of such-and-such temple in such-and-such area." Additionally, Christianity has also spread to some extent, especially on Qushan Island, where it has a missionary history of over a hundred years, and many residents of the island have become Christians.

Puji Temple
Fayu Temple
Huiji Temple
Zuyin Temple
Refusing-to-Go Guanyin Temple
Chaoguo Temple

11. Culture

11.1 Overview

Zhoushan City, located in the northeastern part of Zhejiang Province, is a city composed of an archipelago. The culture of Zhoushan is diverse and unique, integrating various elements such as maritime culture, Buddhist culture, folk culture, and red culture, forming a distinctive cultural landscape.

11.2 Maritime Culture

Zhoushan City is renowned for its abundant marine resources and is often called the "City of a Thousand Islands." The maritime culture of Zhoushan is mainly reflected in the following aspects:

• Marine Economy: Zhoushan City has a developed marine economy, with fisheries, shipbuilding, and marine tourism being important components of its economy.
• Marine Folklore: The marine folklore of Zhoushan is rich and colorful, such as fishermen's sea worship ceremonies and the Fishing Festival, reflecting the reverence and dependence of the Zhoushan people on the sea.

11.3 Buddhist Culture

The Buddhist culture of Zhoushan City has a long history and is mainly reflected in the following aspects:

• Mount Putuo: Mount Putuo is a famous Buddhist sacred site in Zhoushan City, known as the "Buddhist Kingdom on the Sea and Sky," and is one of China's four great Buddhist mountains.
• Buddhist Activities: The Buddhist activities in Zhoushan City are diverse and vibrant, such as Buddha's Birthday and Guanyin's Birthday, attracting a large number of devotees and tourists.

11.4 Folk Culture

The folk culture of Zhoushan City is rich and colorful, mainly reflected in the following aspects:

• Traditional Festivals: Traditional festivals in Zhoushan City include the Spring Festival, Lantern Festival, Dragon Boat Festival, and Mid-Autumn Festival. These festivals are not only an important part of folk culture but also a significant aspect of the spiritual life of the Zhoushan people.
• Folk Arts: The folk arts of Zhoushan City include fishermen's paintings, paper-cutting, and embroidery. These art forms not only enrich the cultural life of Zhoushan City but also preserve its historical and cultural heritage.

11.5 Red Culture

Zhoushan City is an important old revolutionary base area in Zhejiang Province, with a profound historical foundation of red culture. This is mainly reflected in the following aspects:

• Revolutionary Sites: There are several revolutionary sites in Zhoushan City, such as the Zhoushan Revolutionary Martyrs Cemetery and the Zhoushan Revolutionary Memorial Hall. These sites are important carriers of Zhoushan's red culture.
• Red Spirit: The red culture of Zhoushan City inherits the heroic deeds and revolutionary spirit of the revolutionary martyrs, inspiring the people of Zhoushan to continuously move forward.

11.6 Cultural Policies

The Zhoushan Municipal Government attaches great importance to cultural construction and actively promotes the development of cultural undertakings. By organizing various cultural activities, building cultural facilities, and protecting cultural heritage, the Zhoushan Municipal Government continuously enhances the city's cultural soft power and promotes cultural prosperity and development.

12. Sister Cities

Zhoushan has a total of 5 sister cities.

Richmond, USA (Sister City) Kesennuma City, Miyagi Prefecture, Japan (Sister City) Ganghwa County, South Korea (Friendly Exchange City) Gokseong County, South Korea (Putuo Friendly Exchange City) Sacheon City, South Korea (Single-Item Friendly Exchange City)

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It is "shaped like a boat," hence the name Zhoushan.

Dinghai District

Dinghai District

Han 98.98% Miao 0.28% Tujia 0.26% Hui 0.10% Yi 0.06% Bouyei 0.05% (2010)

Neolitsea

Putuo Narcissus