Putuoshan by foot

Stretches of virgin beach, lush tropical forests and monastic tranquillity quickly transport you to a place that seems like it is a slice of Thailand, rather than a Chinese island. Saffron-robed monks, which constitute nearly a third of the island's population, occupy the many temples that are sprinkled throughout the island. A pair of strong legs can easily traverse the island in about two hours, but if you are wanting to meander through the many paved, winding streets spare yourself at least a day.

Here's a guide to some of Putuoshan's highlights - ?Start at Fanyin Cave, which lies at the furthermost tip of the island with a temple perched between two rocks. Climb up behind the cave and walk through dense tropical forests, pushing aside bushes of wild rosemary, as the path takes you through breathtaking scenery and stunning views of cliffs, mountains and beaches. The paths almost always make their way back to the main road, usually rambling their way through a monastery or village. From there, either hail a local tourist minivan or continue your trek along the main road back towards the hub of activity around Puji Temple.

?Summer is lotus season and the large pond just outside Puji temple is full of bright pink lotus blossoms. The streets behind the temple house a variety of knick-knacks, making it perfect for an afternoon stroll and treasure hunt. Under a blistering afternoon sun, wander down to a local village perched above a beach, (take a left off the main path to Guanyin Hall down the steps) then find yourself a chair with a waterside view and sip Putuoshan's very own, albeit unoriginally named, "Putuoshan" beer.

?Wake up early for a quick swim in the sea. Although the 100 Step Beach has lifeguards, the currents are rather strong so watch out for yourself and your little ones. For a safer perch, spread a blanket on the sandy beach or lounge in a deck chair while gazing out at the glorious East China Sea. After a day spent lounging in the sun, make your way to one of Putuoshan's little piazzas that fill up with outdoor tables at around 6pm. Choose your own floppy fish from the saltwater tubs and watch as the chefs whisk it away to turn it into a garlic and scallion infused masterpiece.

From Shanghai there are three ways to get to Putuoshan .

Go to the Ticket Office on 1 Jingling Dong Lu / Weitan

Fast Ferry: ?50
Buses leave from Jingling Dong Lu at 6am. After an hour and a half you are dropped off at Lujiazhuang Jetty (Nanhui County, Pudong) from where it's a 2 hour boat ride to Putoshan.

Slow Boat: ?100
Buses leave from Jingling Dong Lu and take you to Wusong Da dao, a huge port in Shanghai where you board an overnight passenger ship at 6pm.

Flight: ?00
Fly from Shanghai to Zhujiajian and take a boat across to Putuoshan. Contact your travel agent.