Zhoushan in East China's Zhejiang province, known as China's largest archipelago and a major fishing hub, enters its quietest and most atmospheric season in late autumn.

With crowds gone by November, Zhoushan presents a calm environment where the coastline, fishing villages, and rugged cliffs reveal a more contemplative shade of blue.

An aerial view of Zhoushan's islands. [Photo/Zhejiang Provincial Department of Culture, Radio, Television, and Tourism]

A popular route links several island landscapes, beginning with Nansha Scenic Area, via Daqingshan National Park, Zhujiajian Island Greenway, Dongji Island, and ending at Huaniao Island. As the sun sets, the shorelines of Nansha Scenic Area turn a warm gold beneath the autumn sky, while the Daqingshan National Park offers a contrast between the blue sea and forested hills.

A seaside view of Daqingshan National Park. [Photo/Zhejiang Provincial Department of Culture, Radio, Television, and Tourism]

The Zhujiajian Island Greenway offers uninterrupted sea views, with lookout points placed along the route and waves echoing against the rocks throughout the day. Farther out, Dongji's stone houses and remote cliffs form one of Zhoushan's most unspoiled island environments, while Huaniao offers whitewashed homes, winding cliff roads, and its well-known lighthouse.

An aerial view of a section of Zhujiajian Island Greenway. [Photo/Zhejiang Provincial Department of Culture, Radio, Television, and Tourism]

With more than 2,000 islands, Zhoushan invites visitors to embrace slow travel and discover the quiet charm of its late-autumn seascapes.