Zhoushan is known for two things and being hot is seconded by the spiritual presence that embodies the lands. On one of its many beaches, a massive golden sword with two dragons statue was erected that shines brightly as the day goes by. If Buddhism is brought up, Zhoushan does not disappoint with its famous mountain, Mount Putuo, which is highly considered as the "Buddhist Kingdom on the Sea". Entering the area will fill a person's mind with great spiritual presence as everyone that visits the temples is seeking self-worth or peace of mind. 

Grasping the golden sword that pierces the skies

Being inside the shrines felt like my soul was at a constant state of serenity. There are many people that come to prostrate themselves in front of monuments of the deities in hopes that they would receive the blessings of the deities. Looking over the bridge across the small lake, I was able to see beautiful kois that swam and engulfed the shrines. Accompanying the body of water was the amount of tall trees and bamboos filled with birds and wildlife which gave off a soothing shade whilst walking from temple to temple. 

At the center of the mountain, a large golden monument of Buddha was established and could be seen from any part of the coast. The statue was so tall that it seemed as if Buddha was able to touch the sky so that the heavens and earth were linked. Everything on the island was overflowing with spiritual presence, even the air. The fresh air along with the incense from many of the cauldrons decorating the shrines overpowered the senses and provoked one's presence in reality. From identity searching to seeking aid for a problem from a being of higher power, Mount Putuo is definitely a place that can not only start the search for, but also propel one's quest for enlightenment. At the end of one's journey through Mount Putuo, they cannot deny the sense of tranquility that they take away.

All in all, Zhoushan was and always will be a place I can never grow bored of visiting. The factors that allow me to claim such not only include the variety of extraordinary food and culture, but also the crisp smell of the sea and the cool breeze of the skies that the island is immersed in. I can only ponder what hidden treasures I had missed to explore from my brief time in Zhoushan, but I am sure that the next time I return I will be just as fascinated as ever.