Donghai Island

　　    Introduction        Donghai Island is a flat and expansive island, covering an area of 286 square kilometers, ranking as the fifth largest in China. The island has a population of about 150,000, traditionally making a living by fishing at sea and cultivating dryland crops such as cassava, sweet potatoes, sugarcane, and peanuts. In recent years, growing vegetables for northern markets and breeding lobster, abalone, shrimp, crabs, oysters, and precious fish species have gradually become the main industries. Fruits include bananas, mangoes, and jackfruit. “Donghai muskmelon” is a local specialty—shorter than regular muskmelons and shaped somewhat like an apple, hence also called the “apple melon.” It’s sweet and crisp. The “Donghai Dragon Dance” is a unique folk art here, formed by people linking together to create a long dragon and hailed as an “Oriental marvel.”

　　     Along the walkways on either side of the central square, you can reach the seawall for ocean views. Floating in the cool seawater, letting the rolling white waves crash over you and listening to the rhythmic roar of the tides, all your worries will drift away. If there's a festival, you might even catch a “dragon dance” on the beach, adding even more charm. What you often see on the beach is fishermen “pulling the big net,” a traditional fishing method. Though not staged for tourists, it frequently draws crowds who come to share in the joy of the catch. If you’re in the mood, buy some freshly caught fish, shrimp, or crabs, and enjoy a seaside barbecue under a sun umbrella with a few friends—that’s truly living like a god!

　　  Transportation       1. Buses depart near Xiashan Railway Station approximately every 20 minutes. Ticket price: 8 yuan.

　　    2. You can take the “Xiashan – Southeast” bus (you must inform the driver in advance that you want to go to Donghai Island). Ticket price: 8 yuan.   Admission/Fees & Opening Hours       Admission: 10 yuan.

　　 Zhanjiang City, Guangdong Province