Riders compete in the inaugural Tour of Zhoushan, which opened in Zhujiajian, Zhoushan, East China's Zhejiang province on May 31. [Photo/zhoushan.cn] 

The inaugural Tour of Zhoushan kicked off in Zhujiajian, Zhoushan, East China's Zhejiang province on May 31, according to local media reports. 

More than 200 riders from across the country took part in the warm-up race. The 55-kilometer route, with a maximum elevation of 865 meters, passes by numerous scenic attractions on the island including Zhujiajian Cross-Sea Bridge, Guanyin Altar, Putuo Mountain College of the Buddhist Academy of China, Wushitang, Nansha Beach and Daqingshan National Park. 

Riders were enchanted by Zhujiajian's unspoiled seaside views, folk customs and Zen culture. 

Zhang Ming, a rider from Hangzhou, said he was impressed by Zhoushan's beauty as an island city. After learning about the race, Zhang invited four other cyclists to participate. The charm of the island, which is markedly different from the place he works, gave him a sense of calm and comfort, he said. 

According to Shi Zhengxin, an employee of the race's operator, the tour is composed of three stages in total. In addition to the warm-up race held on May 31, another warm-up race is set to be held in Nandong Art Valley on June 7, followed by the main racing event on June 27. 

A head official from the Zhoushan municipal bureau of culture, radio, television, tourism and sports said that the race is part of efforts by local authorities to promote the integration of sports, tourism and culture and boost the economy in the aftermath of the epidemic.