Published: March 2026 | Reading Time: 10 minutes
Introduction: Where the Mountains Meet the Sea
Located on a peninsula jutting into the East China Sea at the southern tip of Ningbo, Xiangshan (象山) — literally “Elephant Mountain” — is one of Zhejiang Province’s most rewarding coastal destinations. With over 605 km of coastline, golden sandy beaches, ancient fishing ports, a world-class film studio, and some of the freshest seafood in eastern China, Xiangshan offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and culinary adventure.
Despite being just 1.5 hours from Ningbo city center, Xiangshan feels like a different world. The pace is slower, the air is saltier, and the horizon is always blue. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach holiday, a deep dive into China’s film industry, or a seafood feast you’ll never forget, Xiangshan delivers on all fronts.
Quick Facts:
📍 Location: Southern Ningbo, Zhejiang Province, East China Sea coast
🌊 Coastline: 605 km — the longest of any county in Zhejiang
🏛️ Famous For: Songlan Mountain beaches, Xiangshan Film City, Shipu fishing port, seafood
🎫 Entry: Songlan Mountain ¥30; Film City ¥100; Shipu Old Town free; Yushan Island ferry ¥200+
⏰ Best Time: May-October for beaches; March-May & September-November for sightseeing
🚗 Access: 1.5 hours from Ningbo by car; 3 hours from Hangzhou; 4 hours from Shanghai
📜 Why Xiangshan? A Hidden Coastal Gem
Xiangshan has been quietly building its reputation as one of eastern China’s top coastal destinations. Here’s what makes it worth the trip:
- China’s Longest County Coastline: 605 km of coastline with beaches, cliffs, islands, and fishing villages
- Hollywood of the East: Xiangshan Film & TV City is one of China’s largest filming locations, with dozens of blockbuster movies and TV series shot here
- Shipu — 600-Year-Old Fishing Port: One of China’s four great fishing ports, with a history dating back to the Han Dynasty
- Yushan Islands — Diver’s Paradise: Some of the clearest waters in eastern China, perfect for diving and snorkeling
- Seafood Capital of Ningbo: Fresh-from-the-ocean seafood at prices that make foodies weep with joy
- Uncrowded Beaches: Compared to Zhoushan or Hainan, Xiangshan’s beaches are refreshingly peaceful
🏛️ Top Attractions & What to See
1. Songlan Mountain Seashore Tourist Area (松兰山海滨旅游区) ⭐ Must-Visit
Songlan Mountain is Xiangshan’s premier beach destination and the most accessible coastal area from the county seat. The resort stretches along 12 km of coastline, featuring several distinct beaches, coastal hiking trails, and lush mountain scenery.
The main beaches include:
- Nansha Beach (南沙滩): The largest and most popular beach, with fine golden sand, gentle waves, and full facilities including showers, changing rooms, and equipment rental. Perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
- Dongsha Beach (东沙滩): A quieter, more secluded beach ideal for families and those seeking peace. The water here is remarkably clean.
- Songlan Mountain Coastal Trail: A scenic hiking trail along the clifftops offering panoramic views of the East China Sea. The trail passes through pine forests, rocky outcrops, and hidden coves.
Entry: ¥30 (peak season) / free (off-season)
Time Needed: Half to full day
Tip: Visit on a weekday in summer for the best beach experience — weekends can get busy
2. Xiangshan Film & TV City (象山影视城) — China’s Movie Magic Kingdom
One of the most unique attractions in the Ningbo area, the Xiangshan Film & Television City is a massive outdoor film studio set against the dramatic backdrop of Lingyan Mountain. Built in 2003, it has served as the filming location for dozens of major Chinese movies and TV series, including historical epics, martial arts dramas, and fantasy productions.
The studio features several distinct zones:
- Song Dynasty Town: A meticulously recreated ancient city with traditional architecture, bustling market streets, and period-accurate details
- Ming & Qing Dynasty Streets: Classic Chinese townscapes used in countless historical dramas
- Fantasy Zone: Elaborate sets for mythological and fantasy productions
- Live Performances: Daily stunt shows, horse riding performances, and martial arts demonstrations
Walking through the sets feels like stepping into a time machine — you might recognize scenes from popular Chinese TV series at every turn. The live action shows are genuinely entertaining and suitable for all ages.
Entry: ¥100 (adults) / ¥50 (children)
Time Needed: 3-5 hours
Tip: Check the daily performance schedule at the entrance — the stunt shows are not to be missed
3. Shipu Ancient Fishing Port (石浦渔港) — 600 Years of Maritime Heritage
Shipu is the cultural and culinary heart of Xiangshan. This ancient fishing port, with a history stretching back over 600 years (and documented fishing activity since the Han Dynasty), is one of China’s four great fishing ports. The town is a maze of narrow stone-paved streets, traditional courtyard houses, and waterfront alleys that open onto the bustling harbor.
Key highlights include:
- Shipu Old Street (石浦老街): A beautifully preserved historic street lined with traditional shops, seafood stalls, and local snack vendors. The stone-paved lanes wind between old stone houses, some dating back to the Ming Dynasty.
- Shipu Fishing Port: Watch hundreds of fishing boats come and go — the harbor is especially photogenic at dawn and dusk
- Guanyin Pavilion: A hilltop temple offering panoramic views of the entire harbor and coastline
- Seafood Market: One of the most exciting food experiences in Zhejiang — pick your seafood fresh from the tanks and have it cooked on the spot
Entry: Old town free; some attractions ¥20-40
Time Needed: Half to full day
Tip: Come for dinner — the seafood restaurants along the waterfront are at their best after sunset
4. Yushan Islands (渔山列岛) — The Diver’s Paradise
Located about 27 nautical miles off the Xiangshan coast, the Yushan Islands are a remote archipelago known for having some of the clearest waters in eastern China. The main island, Beiyushan (北渔山), is a small volcanic island with dramatic cliffs, a historic lighthouse, and underwater visibility that can reach 10+ meters — making it the premier diving destination in Zhejiang Province.
Highlights include:
- Scuba Diving & Snorkeling: Explore coral reefs, underwater rock formations, and marine life in crystal-clear water
- Yushan Lighthouse: A beautiful 19th-century lighthouse — one of the “Top 8 Lighthouses of the World” and a designated national heritage site
- Wild Camping: Camp on the clifftops and fall asleep to the sound of waves — an unforgettable experience
- Sea Fishing: Some of the best sport fishing in eastern China
Ferry: From Shipu Port, approximately 2.5 hours, ¥200-300 round trip
Time Needed: 2 days (1 night on the island)
Tip: Only accessible from April to October — ferries are weather-dependent. Book well in advance for summer weekends
5. Hua’ao Island (花岙岛) — Volcanic Wonders
Hua’ao Island is connected to the Xiangshan mainland by a bridge and is famous for its extraordinary columnar jointing basalt formations — towering hexagonal stone pillars created by ancient volcanic activity. These dramatic rock formations rise from the sea like a natural cathedral, making it one of the most geologically fascinating spots in Zhejiang.
The island also features a beautiful beach, a salt farm (one of the last remaining in the area), and peaceful rural scenery.
Entry: ¥40
Time Needed: 2-3 hours
Tip: Visit at low tide for the best views of the basalt columns from the beach
6. Tantoushan Island (檀头山岛) — The Untouched Island
For travelers seeking a more rugged, off-the-beaten-path experience, Tantoushan Island offers pristine beaches, grassy hillsides, and a small fishing village atmosphere. The island has two beautiful beaches facing each other across a narrow strip of land — one with golden sand, the other with black volcanic sand.
Ferry: From Shipu Port, about 40 minutes, ¥60-80 round trip
Time Needed: 1 day
Tip: Bring your own food and water — facilities on the island are basic
🍽️ Food & Dining — Xiangshan’s Seafood Feast
Xiangshan is seafood heaven. As a major fishing county with a 600-year-old port, the seafood here is caught locally and served impossibly fresh. The local cooking style emphasizes simplicity — steaming, grilling, and quick stir-frying to let the natural flavors of the ocean shine through.
Must-Try Dishes
1. Steamed Red Tilefish (清蒸黄鱼)
Xiangshan is famous for its yellow croaker (黄鱼). Steamed whole with ginger, scallions, and a splash of soy sauce, the flesh is delicate, sweet, and incredibly tender.
2. Shipu Seafood Platter (石浦海鲜拼盘)
A massive platter of the day’s freshest catch — typically includes mantis shrimp, clams, crab, shrimp, and seasonal fish. Order this at any Shipu restaurant for the full experience.
3. Salt-Baked Mud Crab (盐烤青蟹)
Xiangsan mud crabs are prized across Zhejiang. Baked in a crust of coarse salt, the meat is sweet, rich, and utterly addictive.
4. Stir-Fried Clams with Garlic (蒜蓉炒蛤蜊)
Fresh clams stir-fried with garlic, chili, and a splash of rice wine — simple, flavorful, and perfect with a cold beer.
5. Seafood Noodles (海鲜面)
A hearty bowl of hand-pulled noodles in a rich seafood broth, topped with shrimp, fish balls, clams, and vegetables. The ultimate Xiangshan comfort food.
6. Dried Fish & Seafood Products
Xiangshan is famous throughout China for its dried seafood — dried squid, salted fish, dried shrimp, and kelp. These make excellent souvenirs and gifts.
7. Taro Cake (象山芋艿)
A local specialty made from Xiangshan’s famous taro — soft, savory, and uniquely satisfying.
Where to Eat
Shipu Seafood Street (石浦海鲜街):
The absolute best place for seafood in Xiangshan. Dozens of restaurants line the waterfront, each with tanks full of live seafood. Pick what you want, agree on a price, and enjoy. | ¥100-300/person
Danran Mountain Seafood Area (丹城海鲜排档):
Closer to the county seat (Danran), this area offers excellent seafood restaurants at slightly lower prices than Shipu. | ¥80-200/person
Songlan Mountain Resort Restaurants:
Several good restaurants near the beach area offering both seafood and general Chinese cuisine. | ¥60-150/person
📸 Photography Tips
- ✅ Shipu harbor at dawn: Fishing boats returning with the sunrise — magical golden light
- ✅ Songlan Mountain coastal trail: Panoramic sea views from the clifftops, especially at sunset
- ✅ Hua’ao Island basalt columns: Best photographed at low tide with waves crashing against the pillars
- ✅ Yushan Lighthouse: The lighthouse against a blue sky is one of Xiangshan’s most iconic shots
- ✅ Film City sets: Ancient architecture and live performances offer great action shots
- ✅ Shipu Old Street: Narrow alleys, traditional houses, and local life — perfect for street photography
- ✅ Tantoushan twin beaches: Golden and black sand beaches side by side — unique and dramatic
- ❌ Avoid: Midday harsh light on beaches; weekends at Songlan Mountain for crowd-free shots
🚗 Getting There
By Car (Recommended):
- From Ningbo city center: 1.5 hours via the Ningbo-Xiangshan Expressway (S19)
- From Hangzhou: 3 hours via Hangzhou Bay Bridge + expressway
- From Shanghai: 4 hours via Hangzhou Bay Bridge + expressway
- From Shaoxing: 2.5 hours via expressway
By Bus:
- Ningbo South Bus Station → Xiangshan (Danran): Departs every 20-30 minutes, 1.5 hours, ¥40-50
- Ningbo → Shipu: Direct buses available, 2 hours, ¥55
By High-Speed Rail + Bus:
- Ningbo Railway Station: Take a bus or taxi from Ningbo to Xiangshan (1.5 hours)
- Nearest HSR station: Ningbo Station — then transfer to bus
Getting Around Xiangshan:
- Rental Car: The most convenient option — Xiangshan is spread out and public transport is limited between attractions
- Taxi/Didi: Available in the county seat; can be hired for day trips
- Public Bus: Buses connect Danran (county seat) to Songlan Mountain, Shipu, and other areas
- Ferries: Essential for reaching Yushan Islands and Tantoushan Island from Shipu Port
🗓️ Suggested Itineraries
Weekend Getaway from Ningbo (2 Days)
- Day 1: Drive to Xiangshan → Songlan Mountain beach (swimming, coastal trail) → evening seafood dinner at Danran
- Day 2: Morning at Xiangshan Film City → afternoon at Shipu Old Town and fishing port → seafood feast → return to Ningbo
Three-Day Coastal Explorer (Recommended)
Day 1 — Beaches & Film:
- Morning: Drive to Xiangshan
- Afternoon: Songlan Mountain — beach time, coastal hiking
- Evening: Seafood dinner in Danran
Day 2 — Culture & History:
- Morning: Xiangshan Film & TV City (3-4 hours)
- Afternoon: Drive to Shipu → explore Shipu Old Street
- Evening: Shipu waterfront seafood feast
Day 3 — Nature & Islands:
- Morning: Hua’ao Island (basalt columns) or Tantoushan Island
- Afternoon: Relax at a quiet beach or explore more of Shipu
- Evening: Return journey
Five-Day Deep Dive (with Yushan Islands)
Days 1-3 as above, plus:
- Day 4: Ferry to Yushan Islands — diving, snorkeling, lighthouse visit, wild camping
- Day 5: Sunrise at Yushan → return ferry to Shipu → last seafood meal → departure
💡 Visitor Tips
- ✅ Best beach weather: July-August (warmest water); May-June and September-October (fewer crowds, still swimmable)
- ✅ Seafood season: September-November is the best time for seafood — the fishing season yields the freshest and most abundant catches
- ✅ Film City timing: Arrive by 9 AM to catch all the live performances throughout the day
- ✅ Yushan booking: Book Yushan Island ferry tickets at least 1-2 weeks in advance for summer
- ✅ Shipu bargaining: At seafood restaurants, always confirm the price per jin (500g) before ordering
- ✅ Sunscreen & hat: Essential — coastal sun is strong, even on overcast days
- ✅ Car rental: Highly recommended — Xiangshan’s attractions are spread across a large area
- ✅ Cash: Bring some cash for smaller restaurants, street food, and island ferries
- ❌ Avoid: Typhoon season (July-September) — check weather forecasts before beach trips
- ❌ Avoid: Chinese national holidays (May 1, October 1-7) — beaches and restaurants get extremely crowded
📊 Visitor Information
| Location | Xiangshan County, Ningbo, Zhejiang Province, China |
| Coastline | 605 km (longest in Zhejiang) |
| Population | ~500,000 |
| Language | Mandarin Chinese (Ningbo dialect locally) |
| Currency | Chinese Yuan (RMB/CNY) |
| Climate | Subtropical maritime — mild winters, warm humid summers |
| Average Budget | ¥300-600/day (mid-range, including seafood) |
| Recommended Stay | 2-3 days (5 days if visiting Yushan Islands) |
| Best For | Beaches, seafood, film culture, diving, island hopping, photography |
Nearby Destinations
- Ningbo City: 1.5 hours — Old Bund, Tianyi Pavilion, Dongqian Lake, Ningbo Museum
- Putuoshan (Zhoushan): 2.5 hours — Buddhist sacred mountain, temples
- Hangzhou: 3 hours — West Lake, Lingyin Temple, Longjing Tea Village
- Shaoxing: 2.5 hours — Lu Xun’s hometown, Yellow Wine culture
- Shanghai: 4 hours — The Bund, Yu Garden, French Concession
“Xiangshan is where Zhejiang’s mountains tumble into the East China Sea — a place of ancient fishing ports, golden beaches, movie magic, and seafood so fresh you can taste the ocean. It’s the coastal escape most travelers to China never know exists.”
📧 Questions? Contact: whjinc@163.com
Tags: #Xiangshan #Ningbo #ChinaTravel #Zhejiang #Beach #Seafood #FilmCity #Shipu #SonglanMountain #YushanIsland #Diving #CoastalChina #FishingPort #TravelGuide