The outside view of one of the Putuoshan Xiang Gong Fang stores in Zhoushan. [Photo/www.wifizs.cn]

Two Putuoshan Xiang Gong Fang stores in Zhoushan, East China's Zhejiang province, were recently designated as part of Zhejiang's new batch of in-store tax refund merchants.

The service allows overseas visitors to receive immediate tax refunds at the point of sale after signing an agreement and completing a credit card pre-authorization.

This is a streamlined version of the existing departure tax refund policy aimed at improving the shopping experience for inbound tourists.

Putuoshan or Mount Putuo is an island in the Putuo district of Zhoushan, widely known as the "Buddhist Kingdom in the Sea", drawing over 10 million tourism trips annually.

The new refund model is expected to boost sales of locally inspired cultural products and enhance the purchasing experience for international travelers.

These offerings often combine Putuoshan's religious and cultural heritage with creative design, making them attractive souvenirs for international visitors.

This effort aims to further integrate culture and tourism while supporting Zhoushan's goal of becoming a global tourism and consumption hub. It also seeks to promote development within the city's free trade zone.