Putuoshan Airport

Putuoshan Airport (HSN) is not merely a transport hub, but a true aerial gateway to the "Buddhist Kingdom on the Sea". Located on the picturesque Zhujiajian Island, it serves as the main starting point for pilgrims and tourists seeking to visit the sacred Mount Putuo. Thanks to its unique location amidst the archipelago, landing here is often accompanied by breathtaking views of the boundless sea and a scattering of green islands, setting the mood for your journey even before you step off the plane.

Zhoushan Putuoshan Airport boasts several unique features that make it convenient for travellers:

• Proximity to Sanctuaries: The airport is just a few minutes' drive from the Wugongzhi Ferry Terminal, from where boats depart for Putuoshan Island — one of the four sacred mountains of Chinese Buddhism.
• Island Location: The terminal is built on Zhujiajian Island, which is connected to the administrative centre of Zhoushan and the mainland by a system of modern bridges, making transfers fast and comfortable.
• Compactness and Comfort: Thanks to its small size, check-in and security procedures here are significantly faster than in major hubs, and navigation inside the terminal is intuitively simple.
• Developed Infrastructure: Despite its regional scale, the airport offers modern waiting lounges and convenient bus connections to key points of the archipelago.

If you need to contact representatives of Putuoshan Airport (HSN), please use the following contact details. Please note that most information resources are provided in Chinese, and translation assistance may be required for communication.

• Official Website: http://www.zsairport.com.cn/. We recommend using the translation function in your browser to navigate the site.
• Information Desk Phone: +86 580 626 0716. This is the main number for information regarding flights, airport services, and general enquiries.
• Airport Address: Zhujiajian Island, Putuo District, Zhoushan, Zhejiang, China.
• Email: The airport does not provide a public email address for general enquiries. It is recommended to use the telephone for communication.
• Social Media: The official website is the primary and most reliable source of information. The airport may have pages on Chinese social networks (e.g., WeChat), but these are oriented towards the domestic audience.
• Lost Luggage Information: For issues related to lost or damaged baggage, you should first contact your airline's counter at the airport. You can also call the general information desk for further instructions.
• Passenger Support Contacts: All questions regarding airport services can be directed to the main information desk phone at +86 580 626 0716.

You can reach Putuoshan Airport from the city centre of Zhoushan and its other districts in several ways, the choice of which depends on your budget, time, and preferences. The most economical option is the special shuttle buses. They operate on several routes, connecting the airport with key points in the city, including ferry terminals and major hotels. This is a convenient and affordable method, but it is worth checking the schedule in advance, as it may change depending on the season and time of day.

A more comfortable and faster method is a taxi ride. Cars can be easily found in any part of the city or ordered via popular local apps. A trip from the centre of Zhoushan to the airport will take approximately 30-50 minutes depending on traffic. The cost will be significantly higher than the bus, but for travellers with bulky luggage or those in a hurry, this is the optimal choice. You can also pre-book a private transfer, which guarantees a fixed price and a meeting with the driver at a designated location.

For those who prefer maximum freedom of movement and plan to explore the archipelago independently, car rental is available. Rental points can be found both at the airport itself and in the city. Please note that driving in China may require special documents, and road traffic has its own specificities. Putuoshan Airport has a parking area where you can leave your car for both short and long terms. Rates vary, so it is better to verify them in advance.

When planning your trip, consider that Zhoushan is an archipelago, and transport logistics may include ferry crossings. If you are arriving at one of the major neighbouring airports, such as Ningbo Airport or Shanghai Pudong International Airport, you will need to organise additional ground transport to the ferry terminal to reach the islands. It is recommended to always have the address of your destination written in Chinese to avoid misunderstandings with drivers.

Putuoshan Airport (HSN) is a modern and compact aviation hub serving the Zhoushan Archipelago. Thanks to its thoughtful layout, navigation here presents no difficulties even for first-time visitors. The airport consists of one main terminal, which handles all domestic and international flights.

The structure of the terminal is logical and intuitive. Generally, the building is divided into several levels:

• Ground Floor (Level 1) is usually designated for arriving passengers. Here you will find the baggage claim area, taxi and tourist information counters, as well as the exit to bus stops.
• First Floor (Level 2) is the departure zone. Located here are the check-in counters, security checkpoints, and the main waiting lounge with boarding gates.

Arrival and departure zones are clearly demarcated. After checking in on the upper level, passengers pass through pre-flight security and enter the secure area, where they can relax before their flight, visit small shops, or cafés. Since there is only one terminal, there is no need for transfers or shuttles — everything is within walking distance.

Check-in and security procedures at Putuoshan Airport usually proceed quickly due to its relatively small size and modern equipment. It is recommended to arrive at the airport 1.5-2 hours before the departure of a domestic flight. This time will be sufficient to check in luggage without rushing, pass through security control, and find your boarding gate. Signs in the terminal are duplicated in English, which significantly simplifies navigation for international tourists.

The history of Putuoshan Airport (HSN) is closely linked to the development of tourism and the economy of the entire archipelago. The airport was opened in August 1997 and was initially created with a specific goal — to make one of the main Buddhist centres of China, Mount Putuo, more accessible to pilgrims and travellers. Located on Zhujiajian Island, it replaced long ferry crossings, becoming a key transport hub for the city of Zhoushan.

Since its opening, the airport has continuously developed to meet growing passenger traffic. Initially, it served only domestic flights, connecting Zhoushan with major cities such as Shanghai and Beijing. However, a real breakthrough occurred in 2014, when a new, more spacious and modern terminal was commissioned. This large-scale reconstruction not only significantly increased capacity but also allowed the airport to obtain international status.

Important milestones in the airport's history include its achievements in passenger numbers. In 2017, it surpassed the mark of 1 million passengers per year for the first time, and by 2019, this figure had doubled, reaching 2 million. These figures clearly demonstrate the region's growing popularity as a tourist destination and the airport's vital role in its development.

One interesting fact about Putuoshan Airport is its unique location. It is situated in immediate proximity to the sea, and taking off or landing here offers passengers breathtaking views of the islands and the water surface. The architecture of the new terminal is also symbolic — its flowing lines, as conceived by the designers, resemble sea waves, emphasising the region's inseparable connection with the ocean.

Putuoshan Airport (HSN) offers passengers all modern amenities to make waiting for a flight as comfortable as possible. In the terminal, you will find several cafés and dining outlets where you can try local Chinese cuisine or have a cup of coffee before your flight. There are also shops offering souvenirs, travel essentials, and local delicacies.

For those who need to stay connected, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport. The waiting lounges are equipped with numerous charging stations for electronic devices. Passengers valuing privacy and extra comfort can utilise the VIP lounges, where one can relax, work, or enjoy snacks and beverages in a quiet atmosphere.

The terminal building houses ATMs and currency exchange points, allowing you to easily resolve financial matters upon arrival or before departure. In case of feeling unwell, a medical centre is available at the airport, ready to provide first aid.

The airport cares for all categories of travellers. Mother and child rooms are equipped for passengers with small children. Passengers with reduced mobility can count on a barrier-free environment, including ramps and specially equipped restrooms, as well as assistance from staff when moving through the terminal.

Although there are no hotels directly on the airport grounds, several hotels are located in the immediate vicinity and can be quickly reached by taxi. For business travellers who need to attend to work matters, business lounges can provide appropriate conditions for working before flying out of Zhoushan, situated on the picturesque archipelago in China.

Putuoshan Airport (HSN), serving the Zhoushan archipelago, offers passengers several basic but convenient options for a snack or a full meal. Given its regional status, the selection of establishments here is not as extensive as in major international hubs, but you certainly won't go hungry. The main dining points are concentrated in the main terminal.

In the public area (before security control), there are usually several establishments where you can have a leisurely lunch or dinner. Here, you are likely to find a restaurant offering local Chinese cuisine. This is an excellent opportunity to try regional specialities, famous for their seafood. Look out for seafood noodles or fried rice — these are classics of China's cuisine, which here have a special seaside flair. Also in this zone, there may be small cafés with beverages and pastries.

After passing through security, in the departure lounge, the choice is usually limited to cafés and snack bars focused on quick service. Here you can have coffee, tea, buy sandwiches, desserts, or light snacks. This is the ideal option if there is little time left before departure. Prices at the airport are generally higher than in the city but remain within a reasonable range for air terminals.

Regarding special dietary needs, finding separate menus for vegetarians, vegans, or gluten-free dishes may be challenging. However, in Chinese restaurants, you can always ask for vegetable rice or tofu dishes, after clarifying the ingredients with the staff. Most establishments operate according to the flight schedule, opening early in the morning and closing after the departure of the last plane.

To ensure your journey through Putuoshan Airport goes as smoothly as possible, make use of these tips. The airport serves the picturesque Zhoushan archipelago, and proper preparation will help avoid unnecessary stress. We recommend arriving at the airport 1.5-2 hours before domestic flights and at least 3 hours before international ones. This time is sufficient to calmly go through all procedures, even during peak seasons.

To save time, use online check-in if your airline provides this option. Security checkpoints here are standard, but be prepared for queues during national holidays. Pay special attention to carry-on luggage rules in China: all power banks must have clear capacity markings and be carried only in the cabin. Rules regarding lighters can be strict — often, carrying more than one is not permitted (and sometimes none at all).

When choosing a seat on the plane, keep in mind that Zhoushan is an archipelago. Window seats will gift you unforgettable views of the islands during takeoff and landing. If you have a connecting flight, check with the airline in advance whether you need to collect and re-check your luggage. Most flights here are domestic, so transfers usually proceed quickly. Customs control is a standard procedure for those arriving from abroad; simply follow the signs and have all necessary documents ready in advance.

Want to save money? Bring an empty water bottle to fill at drinking fountains after the security zone. Prices for food and drinks at the airport are typically higher, so you might want to have a snack before arriving. Additionally, transport from the airport is best booked in advance through apps or arranged with your hotel — this often works out cheaper than taking a taxi on the spot.

In case of a flight delay, first contact your airline's counter to find out the flight status and your rights regarding the provision of drinks, meals, or accommodation. Use the waiting time to charge devices, use the free Wi-Fi, or simply rest in the lounge. Remain calm and monitor information on the departure boards.