Surrounded by the sea on three sides, with jagged reefs and surging waves, it combines the grandeur of the sea with the unique beauty of the mountains.

East China Sea Cape of Good Hope—this name is full of poetry and a sense of adventure! Although it may not be as world-famous as the Cape of Good Hope in South Africa, the magnificent and tranquil scenery unique to China’s east coast is waiting for travelers who understand it to explore. This carefully prepared travel guide will take you to fully experience its charm. Chapter 1: Getting to Know East China Sea Cape of Good Hope—Where Is It? The East China Sea Cape of Good Hope usually refers to the easternmost tip of Shitang Town, Wenling City, Taizhou, Zhejiang Province. It is the geographic first place to receive the first ray of sunlight on the Chinese mainland in the new millennium, a narrow peninsula extending into the East China Sea. Surrounded by the sea on three sides, with jagged reefs and surging waves, it combines the grandeur of the sea with the unique beauty of the mountains. It is an excellent place to watch the sunrise, enjoy the sea view, and experience fishing village culture. Key Highlights: Geographical Landmark: The site of the Millennium Dawn Monument, of great significance. Visual Feast: 360° unobstructed sea views, including sunrise, starry sky, and coastline. Cultural Fusion: Unique “stone castles” — stone house homestays, and the simple charm of fishing villages. Chapter 2: Trip Planning—How to Have the Best Experience? Best Travel Time Highly recommended: Spring and autumn (May-June, September-October). The weather is clear, temperatures are comfortable, and the sea breeze is gentle, making it the best season for watching the sunrise and outdoor activities. Summer (July-August): Suitable for swimming, but be mindful of typhoon weather and strong sunlight; be sure to use sun protection. Winter (November to February): Strong winds and waves, colder feel, but fewer tourists, ideal for those who enjoy tranquility and photographing the vast sea scenery. Recommended Duration Core Experience: 1 day (focus on visiting the Cape of Good Hope Lighthouse, Dawn Park, and tasting seafood). In-depth Visit: 2 days 1 night (best choice, allowing you to leisurely watch sunrise and sunset, experience stone house homestays, and visit nearby Golden Sand Beach or coastal greenway). Chapter 3: Must-Visit Attractions—Essentials Not to Miss 1. Millennium Dawn Monument - Welcoming the First Ray of Sunshine Why go? This is the point where the first ray of sunlight hit the Chinese mainland on January 1, 2000, with special commemorative significance. Standing under the monument, overlooking the vast East China Sea, waiting for the sun to leap from the horizon is an incredibly breathtaking moment. Tips: Be sure to check the sunrise time for the next day in advance and arrive 30-60 minutes early to secure the best viewing spot. 2. East China Sea Cape of Good Hope Lighthouse - A Romantic Landmark Why go? The red and white lighthouse is the iconic building of the East China Sea Cape of Good Hope. It stands at the cliff’s edge, guiding ships from afar. It is also an excellent spot for portrait and landscape photography, especially at sunset when the scene is particularly romantic. Tips: Walk along the boardwalk to the base of the lighthouse and feel the powerful waves crashing against the reefs. 3. Coastal Greenway - A Paradise for Hiking or Cycling Why go? A scenic trail winding between mountains and sea. You can walk or rent a bike, enjoy the sea breeze, and admire the unique reefs, bays, and quaint fishing villages along the way, with rich and varied scenery. Tips: If time is limited, just walk the section near the Cape of Good Hope, where the best scenery is concentrated. 4. Stone House Homestays - A Unique Accommodation Experience Why go? Shitang Town is known for houses built with local stones, scattered on the hillside like medieval castles. Choosing a stone house homestay facing the sea is an excellent travel experience in itself. Tips: Book popular homestays in advance, especially rooms with terraces, where you can stargaze at night and watch the sunrise from your room in the morning. Chapter 4: Practical Information and Tips Transportation Guide Self-driving: The most recommended way. Navigate to “Wenling Shitang Town” or “East China Sea Cape of Good Hope.” It takes about 4-5 hours from Hangzhou/Shanghai. During holidays, vehicle restrictions may apply, requiring transfer to shuttle buses. Public Transport: 1. High-speed rail: Take the train to “Wenling Station.” 2. Transfer to bus: After exiting, take a bus to Shitang Town (such as routes 231/232), about 1-1.5 hours. 3. Local transport: Upon arrival in Shitang, take a taxi or local minibus to the Cape of Good Hope scenic area. Food Recommendations At the seaside, seafood is definitely the main theme! Must-try dishes: Yellow croaker, hairtail fish, swimming crab, mantis shrimp, razor clams, various shellfish. Special snacks: Shanfenyuan (a sweet soup made from sweet potato starch), mung bean noodles (made from sweet potato starch with a unique texture), fish noodles (made by pounding fish meat into noodles). Dining options: It is recommended to try seafood stalls or homestay restaurants in Shitang Town, where ingredients are fresh and prices reasonable. Accommodation Suggestions Stone House Homestays: The first choice for experience, concentrated in Wuao Village, Liruo Village, etc., with good environment and unique character. Boutique Hotels: There are some design-oriented resorts in Shitang Town with complete facilities. Sample Itinerary (2 days 1 night) Day 1: Arrive at Shitang at noon → Check into stone house homestay → Lunch with seafood → Afternoon stroll along the coastal greenway → Watch sunset at the Cape of Good Hope Lighthouse → Stargaze on the homestay terrace after dinner. Day 2: Early morning visit to the Millennium Dawn Monument to watch the sunrise → Return to homestay for rest or breakfast → Visit nearby Golden Sand Beach or Dongxia Beach → After lunch, buy seafood dried goods as souvenirs → Happy return trip. East China Sea Cape of Good Hope is a place where you can slow down and quietly feel the power of nature. We hope this guide helps you start a perfect journey to the East China Sea! Have a pleasant trip!