A fleet of fishing boats stretches out offshore Zhoushan. [Photo/VCG]

Zhoushan in East China's Zhejiang province is set to welcome a surge of visitors during the upcoming National Day Holiday and Mid-Autumn Festival. Fishing boat trips and island stays will be in high demand.

A company in Zhoushan's Daishan county reported rising bookings, mainly from travelers across Jiangsu, Zhejiang, and Shanghai.

More than a dozen trips have already been booked for the Oct 2 to 7 period, with orders continuing to rise. Popularity established during the summer for "fisherman's homestay" tours has extended into the holiday, with some guests making inquiries as early as August.

Each island offers a distinct experience. Off Shengsi Island, visitors can sail in a boat — hauling in crab cages and enjoying their catch prepared fresh onshore.

On Baisha Island, cultural immersion is emphasized, with guests helping to haul nets and sort fish before staying overnight in renovated fishing homes. Donghai village, among the earliest areas to develop the concept, attracts families with a free beach and large murals painted by the fishermen.

The rise in fishing tourism has also fueled bookings at hotels and homestays. Many local inns report tight availability in early October, while high-end hotels are seeing growing demand, with one Daishan hotel noting half its rooms already booked for Oct 2 to 3.

A trend of staggered travel is emerging, with many opting for weekends before and after the holiday, allowing them to avoid peak crowds and enjoy Zhoushan's coastal charms in a more leisurely fashion.