A view of the transport network in Zhoushan, East China's Zhejiang province. [Photo/Zhoushan Daily] 

Many stone houses in Qushan Island in Daishan county of Zhoushan, East China's Zhejiang province have in recent years been renovated and converted into homestays, and more than 200 residents are now engaged in the homestay industry. 

This development was largely due to the upgraded transportation network which has made it easier for tourists to arrive at the island. 

Zhoushan's transport authorities have in recent years been stepping up efforts, including accelerating the construction of ferry terminals, upgrading facilities of passenger stations, renewing ships and optimizing shipping routes, to improve the city's transportation system. 

The city now has a comprehensive network of waterways comprising 83 shipping routes and 84 passenger stations. 

The waterways play a key role in helping islands such as Shengshan, Gouqi and Huaniao develop their industries. 

In 2021, Huaniao Island generated a tourism revenue of 80 million yuan ($11.34 million). 

Ding Weiwei, head of the city's homestay association, noted that Zhoushan is currently home to more than 4,300 homestays and the number of tourists has returned to 80 percent of the figure in 2019.