Putuoshan, one of the buddhist holy mountains, is a paradise island located in Zhoushan archipelago.
Avalokitesvara (also known as Kuan Yin or Guanyin) was originally a male Bodhisattva in India and Tibet, who changed gender after reaching China. Since the Yuan Dynasty, the image has gradually been converted into that of a young woman, and in Putou Shan she is sometimes depicted holding a vase in her hand, pouring out holy water to ease the suffering of people. This Bodhisattva, in either of its gender forms, is a deity of mercy and gentleness, and its association with Putuo Shan, according to the author's general theory, indicates that the energetic character of this sacred place is conducive to the development of compassion in the human heart.
Besides the many temples, the island is also lush in vegetation and a profusion of forests, all flourishing in the warm and humid climate. Amidst such an environment, a stroll around the mountain or an immobile day at the beach are equally attractive.
On top of all this, Mount Putuo has some of China's greatest seafood on offer. Sampling fresh seafood dishes has become an indispensible part of any trip to Putuoshan.
Despite the name, the trip to Mount Putuo does not involve any overly strenuous climbing. The highest peak here is a mere 300 meters above sea level and for most of the small peaks on the island cable cars are available (RMB30 for the round trip). Maps for the island can be brought for a small price beside the port. For those not wishing to treck, the island also has a fairly comprehensive minibus transport system to all the main sights.