Hainan Island travel guide from tourists. Hainan Island: when to go and what to see. What to see in Sanya

• Last Minute Tours around the world

The best resort in the Middle Kingdom, "Eastern Hawaii" and the main Chinese health resort, Hainan, in the past was an exiled island for nobles. Today only the lazy one has not heard about him. A good half of Siberia and the entire Far East treat their ailments and ailments here, at the same time giving up mortal bodies to the warm turquoise waters of the South China Sea. It is boring to even describe the traditional picture of Hainan beaches - everything is luxuriously banal to the gnashing of teeth: here they are, emerald palms, white sand and azure waters. Let's talk better about the "chips" of Hainan, this island has plenty of them.

Firstly, Li and Miao are the main peoples in Hainan, organizing amazing funeral and wedding ritual shows for tourists, which makes this corner of China completely different from the rest of the country. Secondly, fruits - rambutans, lychees and other exotic fruits in Hainan will become the main meal at any time of the day or night, since you will not taste such an abundance of goodies anywhere else. Further, they do not need special introduction. And, finally, a surprise for all lazy people vacationing in Hainan: a rich cultural heritage, which should not be sought in the south, where all the resorts are concentrated, but in the north, where, in fact, the nobility, who was tired of the emperor, were exiled.

Search for flights to Sanya (closest airport to Hainan)

Hainan cities and resorts

For lovers of outdoor activities in the vicinity of Sanya there are all conditions for diving, surfing, paragliding, cycling and fishing.

By the way, the Chinese come to the beach not so much to swim as to just sit, admire the sea and observe white aliens in their natural habitat. The Chinese themselves prefer to stay farther from the sea - it is cheaper.

The entrance to the water in all the bays is smooth and gentle, the coast is very shallow, so swimming is convenient and safe even with small children. The territory of the beaches is conditionally divided between hotels, but there are no fences, you can relax where you like. The entrance is almost everywhere free, showers, changing rooms and toilets are also. The only thing you have to pay for are sun loungers and umbrellas (20-50 CNY) and all kinds of water activities (from 200 CNY for a trip by boat or "banana" to 1000 CNY for fishing on a specially equipped boat).

Treatment

The island treats diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, pulmonary, skin and urological diseases, rheumatism, osteochondrosis and hypertension. Treatment on the island excludes any form of surgical intervention and is carried out exclusively using traditional Chinese methods in combination with the use of natural medicines. The well-known center of traditional Chinese medicine "Garden of Longevity" in the Dadonghai area at the Pearl River Garden Hotel. Another center, SanYiTang, is located in Sanya, and not so long ago, a branch of this clinic opened in Yalongwan Bay, at the Cactus Resort.

Other popular centers include Taiji and Yu-Kang. The medical complex "Nantian", on the territory of which there are more than 30 pools with water of different temperature and chemical composition, will also help to improve health.

Travel to Hainan Island

Diving in Hainan

The rich world of the depths of the South China Sea has been providing the island with a stable influx of divers from all over the world for several years now. Underwater visibility is more than 20 m there, and diving is possible all year round due to the stable mild climate and the absence of strong currents. Sometimes, however, the echoes of southern storms reach Hainan, and then divers are forced to cede a foothold to surfers for several days.

Popular diving sites: Xiaodonghai Bays (two wrecks: a bulk carrier and a boat, 15 m deep), Yalongwan (densely populated coral colonies, 18 m), Houhai Bay (corals and underwater rocks with grottoes, 30 m), Fenziezhou Island (rocks and wrecks, 25 m).

Shopping and shops

The hallmark of Hainan is pearls, which are famous for their correct shape and variety of colors. Tea, rock crystal, silk, porcelain, wood carvings, Buddhist souvenirs and feng shui symbols are also brought from the island.

You can first taste different varieties of Chinese tea in teahouses scattered throughout the island, and then buy the one you like.

Haishudong Street in Haikou is a place where prestigious shops are concentrated, and arts and crafts can be purchased at the market at the "Land of the Sky and the Sea". In Sanya City, the main department stores are located on Liberation Street in the city center.

Not so long ago, a Tax free system was introduced on the island, but so far only in a few stores. The amount of purchases must be between 800 and 5000 CNY, VAT refund is 11%.

What to try

Entertainment and attractions

Arriving in Hainan, you must definitely set aside 2-3 days and take a ride around the island in search of beautiful views and interesting sights. There are plenty of them here.

To get to know more about Buddhist culture, it is worth going to the Nanshan Temple. Not far from it, on an artificial island, there is the world's tallest statue of the goddess Guanyin, and in the sanctuary there are a dozen sculptures of the Buddha himself.

From the observation deck in front of Nanshan, there is a picturesque view of the sea and a giant statue of a bodhisattva.

Bethel Nat Ethnic Park is 30 km from Sanya. It is dedicated to the way of life, customs and traditions of the small peoples of Li and Meow. Scattered throughout the area are huts where you can learn about tattoos, dialects and other characteristics of the locals.

Heavenly grottoes are the most ancient attraction in Hainan.

Hainan has many picturesque natural parks and reserves. In one of them, on Monkey Island, more than 2,000 tailed inhabitants live. You will have to get here by funicular, but you can admire the island and the South China Sea that surrounds it. Another entertainment is raft fishing, there are also small restaurants serving excellent seafood dishes.

Another park, the Heavenly Grottoes, is considered the most ancient attraction on the island. It was founded almost 1000 years ago. Today, the South Mountain attracts tourists with beautiful views and historical structures, among them the Temple of the Dragon King of the South China Sea, which houses the statue of the ruler himself, and the Wall of Records on the top of the mountain. In addition, the Sanya Natural History Museum is located on the territory of the Taoist park.

Hainan's resorts are well suited for families with children. Most 4 and 5 * hotels have play areas, small pools with slides, a daytime entertainment program and a children's menu in the restaurant.

Not so long ago, a large modern water park opened in Sanya. It is divided into 3 zones - for children, for children and adolescents and for adults. There is a swimming pool with artificial waves, which is also divided into 2 parts - in one the tide is very weak, in the other a real storm is raging.

The largest natural zoo in the Asian region is located on the shores of the picturesque Dongshanhu Lake. Here are collected animals from different parts of the country - elephants, giraffes, monkeys, sika deer. There are also dangerous predators - lions, tigers, crocodiles, so excursions are conducted by jeeps or buses. This place bears little resemblance to our familiar zoo with cramped cages. Animals are kept in conditions as close to natural as possible. The zones are separated, but the enclosures are so spacious that their boundaries are almost invisible. The peaceful inhabitants can be approached, stroked and fed.

There are many Chinese at the resorts in March, and Europeans occupy them from February to May.

History, geography and climate

For a long time, the inhabitants of the island did not even know about the amazing history of its origin, but the era of careful and accurate mapping allowed scientists to compare the coastline of Hainan and the Laizhou Peninsula. The results obtained amazed everyone: it turned out that once these lands were a single whole, but the active tectonic movement of plates in the region led to their split, and the island began to gradually move away from the mainland.

Dadonghai bay

For centuries, waves of constant earthquakes and volcanic activity rolled over it, which completely died down 8 thousand years ago. The calmed Hainan with an amazing climate over time began to attract the attention of residents of other localities, and now this island can accommodate about 8 million people on its territory.

Physical map of the island

It is no coincidence that Hainan is compared to Hawaii, because the weather here is truly heavenly. Even in January, when we are used to wrapping ourselves in warm fur coats and scarves, the inhabitants of the island bask in the sun at an air temperature of 25 ° C. Of course, in such weather conditions, the water in the South China Sea almost does not cool down, being at a level of 26 ° C all year round. Thus, the climate itself would be enough for tourists from all over the world to seek to get here, but Hainan presents many surprises both in the field of entertainment and in the possibilities of recovery.

Sunset on the shores of the South China Sea

Recreation and recovery: hospitals in Hainan

Sanya Beach Fruit Vendor

Vacation time is the only period of the year when a person remembers the most important resource of his body - health. Going on a trip, many tourists plan their route in such a way as to be sure to visit recreational places that can replenish their vitality for the entire coming year. Of course, Western medicines in the form of pills or procedures with drugs are familiar to us. But the pharmaceutical effect on the body does not cover the whole variety of existing methods, especially when it comes to oriental medicine.

Acupuncture is one of the popular areas of traditional Chinese medicine

Hainan Island is one of the most popular centers of alternative medicine throughout Asia. It organically combines comfortable hotel complexes on the seashore and all kinds of medical institutions. A special benefit of the island's wellness treatments is the materials doctors work with. The fact is that the flora of the island is so diverse that the locals have perfected their ability to extract the most useful substances from each plant for centuries. Thanks to this painstaking experimental work, Hainan was able to become famous throughout the world for its phytotherapeutic practices.

The range of diseases that doctors work with on the island of Hainan is extremely wide. Hundreds of thousands of people come to these places every year to overcome their ailments. The most popular areas of treatment are the following:

• Diseases of the joints, in the fight against which compresses from herbal infusions, acupuncture and bamboo sticks are used. These procedures restore blood circulation in problem areas and are able to completely eliminate pain syndrome in 10 sessions.
• Combating nicotine addiction with inhalation and chest warming.
• Fast and effective weight loss through acupressure that breaks down and reduces subcutaneous fat.
• Elimination of pain symptoms during menopause. After a complete examination, specialists develop an individual program that combines herbal compresses, acupuncture and bathing in thermal springs, which allows the normal functioning of the female body.
• Reducing the consequences of a recent stroke, which is achieved by stimulating the nerve endings with special needles.

Water procedures deserve special attention. The fact is that the former volcanic activity on the island of Hainan gave the locals many springs with enriched waters, bathing in which gives incredible results.

Most often, tourists go to the Xinglong Valley, where there are many thermal streams. Here you can find both radon and potassium-sodium baths, the water in which ranges from +45 ° C to +65 ° C. The small town is surrounded by tea and coffee plantations, the products of which can be easily purchased at local markets. Despite the compact size of the settlement, travelers can stay in comfortable villas and hotels, the level of service in which is in no way inferior to European hotels.

Yalong Bay Tropical Paradise Forest Park

Another popular hot spring treatment destination is Nantian. The attraction of the springs lies in the fact that they are designed in the form of many small hot pools. After receiving a preliminary consultation from a specialist, patients bask for hours in the thermal baths, relaxing and nourishing their bodies with health.

Old men talking

Of course, there are many places on Earth that are famous for their hospitals, but what makes Hainan Island so special? Firstly, the incredibly low prices for procedures and related services, a vacation in this area is very affordable for tourists. Second, and most importantly, the amazing health of the island's inhabitants. The fact is that a huge number of centenarians live here, who have stepped over their 100th anniversary, continuing to be in good health. And this is perhaps the most important indicator of the effectiveness of local procedures.

Beach rest and entertainment in resort towns

Hainan attracts not only those who want to improve their health, but also those who prefer a beach holiday. To understand the geography of the island, it is most convenient to divide it into three zones in accordance with the bays along which they are located.

Dadonghai Bay is one of the most popular holiday destinations. There are hotels of all kinds of categories, and the white beaches from afar attract those who want to plunge into the azure waters of the sea. All along the coastline there are shops, cafes and markets where you can buy anything you want. This place is a favorite among young people as it is easy to find bars and discos of various styles and formats.

Yalongwan Bay is aimed at wealthy tourists, so most of the hotels have a 5-star status. Leaving the hotel, you immediately find yourself on a private beach with white sand and clear water. The cleanliness of this area immediately led to the emergence of diving clubs. It regularly organizes exciting dives to the bottom, where you can watch the fantastic life of exotic marine life.

Sanyavan Bay is the most economical beach holiday option. This is due to not the most convenient infrastructure, because in order to approach the sea, tourists are forced to cross the road every time. But saving money on hotel allows travelers to visit more attractions and unique places on the island of Hainan.

Cultural and natural attractions

The center of the island's tourist life is the city of Sanya. It has a convenient transport connection that allows you to visit any corner of Hainan. After driving just 20 minutes along the coastline, you can find an amazing park with a curious name - "Edge of the World". In our understanding, the park area should be covered with lawns and trees, but in China there are completely different views on this. "End of the World" is a huge beach on which giant boulders are scattered chaotically, left as a memory of past volcanic activity on the island. Almost every cobblestone has its own name, and some of them are so popular that they are depicted on local banknotes. And the very name of the park duplicates the inscription on one of the stones. It says that this place is the most extreme point of the overland part of all of China.

Park "End of the World"

After driving another 10 km in the same direction, you can reach Nanshan Mountain, at the foot of which is the largest center of Buddhism on the continent. On a huge area of ​​50 sq. km there is a unique park, the landscape of which is made according to all the laws of the Eastern tradition. Not far from the coastline, an artificial island was poured, a huge temple was erected on it to worship the goddess of Mercy. The real highlight of the island is the golden statue of Guanyin, inlaid with precious stones and pearls. The height of the sculpture with a pedestal is 108 m, which makes the stone image of the goddess one of the five tallest statues in the world.

Li and Miao Village

Also, 35 kilometers from Sanya, there is a huge temple complex, where Taoist monks - representatives of one of the most revered beliefs in China - constantly come. According to legend, it is in this place that the southern dragon lives, ruling a quarter of the world. A visit to this zone does not require any involvement in religion, but it allows you to get acquainted with such unusual rituals of a completely different culture.

Villagers at work

For those interested in Chinese culture and folklore, the Li and Miao Village is a must-see. The inhabitants of this settlement are the descendants of the aborigines of the island, they attract tourists by demonstrating the way of life of their ancestors. Here you can see buildings made according to ancient technologies of mixing grass and clay, dances, weddings and other daily and festive rituals. It is worth knowing in advance about the schedule of events in order to get to the brightest of them.

Lovers of exotic flora and fauna will be interested in visiting the botanical gardens and zoos of Hainan. There is a nature reserve near Sanya, where you can see thousands of species of butterflies. In one part, visitors are introduced to the classical museum collection, but the most interesting is its "living" component. Near the building there is a tropical forest with a gorge, in which many rare species flutter.

How to get to Hainan Island

There are two international airports on the territory at once, which daily receive several dozen planes from different parts of the world. Several flight methods are available for residents of the Russian Federation, each of which has its own advantages.

It is convenient to fly to Hainan to the airport in the city of Haikou, where Hainan Airlines operates direct flights from Moscow. Typically, such a flight takes about 10 hours, its main advantage is the ability to obtain a visa directly at the airport. To do this, you must have a passport with you (received no later than 6 months before departure), one color photograph 3.5 × 4.5 cm, an invitation from an individual or legal entity and $ 65 to pay for the visa itself. Thus, by choosing a direct flight, you will be freed from the need to visit the Chinese Embassy and, moreover, you will be able to renew your visa two more times for a total of 30 days, simply by going to the airport.

In addition, many flights are received by the city of Sanya. The recently reconstructed building of the local air gate is equipped with all the technological achievements of modern science, and the new terminal has allowed several times to increase the flow of tourists.

There are two easy ways to get from the airports to the resort cities of the island of Hainan. For passengers whose plane has landed in Haikou, some airlines provide free shuttle buses. If the ticket does not include an additional service, you can go to the hotel by bus or taxi, the parking of which is located right next to the exit. Sanya airport provides the same opportunities, but due to its proximity to resort towns, transportation usually takes about 15-20 minutes and costs about $ 2.

Moving around the island itself while on holiday will also not be difficult. Buses are constantly running between cities, transporting tourists to the most popular places, and for those who wish to visit the remote corners of Hainan, taxi services are always available. Inside cities, the easiest way to get around is on foot or by using the services of so-called cycle rickshaws, which will take you to your destination for a reasonable fee.

Hainan is a huge tropical island located in the very south of China. Island South of the Sea - this is how its Chinese name is translated into Russian. A map of China shows how similar the outlines of the coastlines of the mainland Leizhou Peninsula and the northern part of Hainan are.

The hypothesis of the origin of the island is based on this similarity, according to which its territory, even in the Tertiary period, was a single whole with the mainland, and then, under the influence of tectonic movements, the earth's crust in this place was torn apart and the narrow Hainan Strait was formed.

Volcanic activity in Hainan ceased 8000 years ago and its evidence is extinct volcanoes, to the craters of which tourist routes are laid. The most famous is the Ma An volcano, which has a saddle shape. The road to it, as well as the steps to the crater, are lined with volcanic magma, the perimeter of the crater is protected by railings and arranged in the form of an observation deck from which you can look inside the crater.

The mouth of the crater is solidified lava, overgrown with dense bushes and tropical species of relict plants. The whole area is arranged in the form of a park, below there is an open-air restaurant in a palm grove. In front of the restaurant there is a large stage area, where evening folklore performances are held by the island's aborigines - the Li and Miao peoples. Opened in 1998. It is located 15 km from Haikou - the administrative center of the island.

Another, and perhaps more significant confirmation of the once active volcanic activity on the island - this o hot springs on the island of Hainan. Scatter tobogganing around the island, thermal springs are surrounded by cottage-style resorts, surrounded by lush green tropical plants.

To the hottest springs of Guantan (temperature of thermal waters - 70 * -90 * at the source) in the area of ​​Qionghai can be reached by making an exciting cruise along the Wanquan River, one of the three largest rivers of the island. (The Wanquan River is the Ten Thousand Springs River).

Hainan Island in China

Hainan Island received the status of a separate province relatively recently - in 1988. At the same time, it was declared the largest provincial special economic zone in China with a wide system of preferences for foreign and mainland capital. Actually, from that time the intensive development of the island began. The capital flooded in 10 years has completely transformed Hainan.

The main focus was on the development of the tourism industry and its associated basic infrastructure. Hotels and resorts grew like mushrooms (there are more than 300 of them now), thermal springs were improved, world-class golf clubs were built, and magnificent landscape parks were created.

The strategic the direction of development of Hainan has been and remains the preservation of a unique ecology , flora and fauna of the island, as well as the identity of the indigenous peoples. It is the ecology that attracts more and more foreign tourists here. The construction of cottages on the territory of the park for Buddhist pilgrims and tourists arriving here from different countries of the world is coming to an end. Moving around the park in special electric vehicles and on foot.

A unique microclimate that allows recreation and swimming on a year-round basis, strict adherence to the ecological regime (within a radius of 100 km from the city of Sanya it is forbidden to place any industrial production, discharge into the sea is prohibited, all sewage systems are looped back to centralized treatment facilities), created and dynamically developing infrastructure of international tourism, recreation and recreation, beautiful sandy beaches, complexes with radon and mineral springs, a network of tourist routes in the mountainous area and along the coast, excellent high-speed routes, the presence of memorable geographical places, ethnographic villages of national minorities - the indigenous population of the island of the Li and Miao peoples , proximity to Hong Kong and Macau - all of this combined and, first of all, ecology, distinguish the island of Hainan from other resorts in Southeast Asia .

Attractions of the island of Hainan

Of course, the main attractions in a trip to Hainan are tropical beaches, sea and sun. However, there are many objects created by nature or man, which will be interesting to see in between visits to the beaches.

Sanya beach

Sanya beaches are considered the most beautiful beaches in China. These are several kilometers of white sand, azure sky, clear sea water, and far out in the sea - the sails of fishing junks and sampans, glowing in the evenings and attracting the inhabitants of the deep sea.

Sanya is the center of the evening tourist hangout , where fun and conversations in nightclubs, numerous fish restaurants and taverns do not stop until the morning. For many kilometers around there are vast expanses overgrown with palms, pineapples, mangoes and blooming cacti. This bay is the busiest with a large number of restaurants, cafes and shops.

There are many shops, cafes and restaurants here. Most of them are concentrated in the area of ​​the largest store in the bay, Summer moll. There is also a small fruit market here. The beach area is quite equipped, over the past two years a large line of cafes and restaurants has been built along the beaches, which, however, have not narrowed the beach.

Jungle "Jianfengling"

It is one of the largest ecological reserves in China. The relict tropical forest has been preserved here. Here, there are majestic, timeless mountains, and mysterious lakes are found in the valleys. This is one of the rare places where you can find plants that appeared on earth many millennia ago, you can see trees that are hundreds of years old. A huge territory stretches from the sea coast to the mountain peak.

Jianfengling State Forest Park is the southernmost state-level forest park in China. It is the best-preserved and largest rainforest park in China.

You can get from Sanya if you go to the northwest, the distance is 100 km. Or from Baso to the southeast, the distance is 60 km. You can also get by plane to Jianfeng Parish.

Before climbing to the top of the mountain, it is better to invite a guide to ensure safety and not to get lost on the way. Service fee 200 yuan.

Every day, a bus leaves from Haikou West Stop at nine o'clock. The fare is 46 yuan ... The duration of the trip is 4 hours. The return flight departs in the morning from 4 to 5 o'clock.

You can take a bus from the western stop to Ledong County or Huanglui Parish, 7 hours 45 minutes -17 hours 30 minutes. Buses leave every hour. The ticket price is 76 yuan. a jeep from the rural municipality costs 40 yuan, a motorcycle or rickshaw - 30 yuan. There is a bus from Sanya to Huanglui Parish, 6: 45-18: 30, buses leave every quarter of an hour, ticket costs 16 RMB.

The Wuzhishan Mountains are located in the central part of Hainan Island. They are considered the symbol of Hainan. If you go from the Valley of the Goddess at the foot of Wuzhishan upstream in about three hours, you can reach the top of Wuzhishan.During a tour of the Wuzhishan mountains, be sure to try local dishes: “Wild beef”, “Ant chicken” and aromatic wild vegetables.

Transport from Haikou to the Wuzhishan Mountains departs from the southern stop. The first flight is at 8:15 am, the price of a ticket per person is 66 yuan (on the eastern high-speed highway), 46 yuan (on a regular road). In the city of Wuzhishan, you can change trains by public transport to the Shuiman village. The first flight is at 8 o'clock, the last one - at 17:30.

Buses run every hour and a half. The ticket costs 7 RMB per person. From Wuzhishan to Haikou, transport departs from the Wuzhishan stop. The first flight is at 8:15 am, the last one at 3:15 pm. The ticket price is 66 RMB per person (on the eastern high-speed highway).

Primeval forest in the Bawanlin mountains

The Bawangling Mountains are located on the southeastern side of Li Changjiang Autonomous County. The primeval forest is well preserved.

The average height of the forest above sea level is about 800 meters. You can stay in the sanatorium "Yajia". This is a wonderful multifunctional sanatorium in the forest where you can have a good rest. The price per room is from RMB 300 to RMB 2,000. In the tourist season, the price rises.

After accommodation in the sanatorium, you can simply relax or fish (38 yuan per 500 grams, including the cost of cooking fish), as well as take a walk in the mysterious rainforest. You can go there by bus (Haikou-Shilu) with a transfer from Shilu to the Bawanlin Mountains. The hotel is located 11 km. from the Bavan stop. You can travel this distance on a motorcycle for 10 yuan.

Dolphinarium

Upon entering the dolphinarium, you will immediately see a pool in which 300-year-old turtles swim. One of them will be immediately pulled out for you and offered to be photographed on horseback. Next, there is a pavilion with trained parrots. They ride bicycles along the cable car, walk up the stairs ... And at the end of the show they collect "tribute".

Moreover, they only like bills in denominations of 10 yuan, others do not accept. While a parrot flies up to you to grab a piece of paper, a memorable picture will be made for you as a gift. A little further there is an aviary with birds (mainly peacocks, pigeons and roosters of various colors). The miracle turtle lives there, which is more than 200 years old and looks more like a brontosaurus than a turtle. ... And, of course, dolphins! And seals. They will also be asked to be photographed at the end of the performance.

Xinglong Tropical Botanical Garden

Excursion - Xinglong Botanical Garden of Tropical Plants. Duration of the excursion: 120 km / 5 hours.

Located near the Xinglong thermal radon springs. It is one of the largest tropical botanical gardens in China. An area of ​​32 hectares, founded in 1957. Currently, there are more than a thousand species of tropical plants, where many species close to extinction have been collected, and work is underway to protect and reproduce them. Among them: coffee tree, coca, pepper tree and other valuable species. A lot of scientific and teaching work is being carried out in the Botanical Garden.

An excursion to the botanical garden will leave an unforgettable experience for everyone who loves nature, will give the opportunity to taste Hainan coffee, which is grown under the generous Hainan sun in ideal ecological conditions.The Chinese government has recommended this park to the United Nations for listing as the world's 500 ecological base.

Nanshan Buddhism Center

In the "Nanshan International Tourism Zone, on the island of Hainan, China, there is the largest center of Buddhism in Asia -" Nanshan ". More precisely, it is located 40 kilometers west of the city of Sanya, near Mount Nanshan. This park covers an area of ​​about 50 square kilometers, it was opened in 1999 and is a whole temple complex with magnificent landscapes.

Nanshan is considered the standard of feng shui - a philosophical concept , meaning the highest harmony of Man and Nature, Man and Society. An ancient Buddhist temple was restored here and the temple of the Goddess of Mercy - Guanyin was built, a bronze statue of the Goddess herself rises above it. The height of this statue is 108 meters.

By the way, in a separate pavilion on the territory of the park there is one more the statue of the goddess Guanyin, it is the world's largest golden statue , she weighs 140 kilograms and is adorned with precious stones. The statue stands on a plinth made of white jade in the shape of a lotus flower. This statue is a Buddhist shrine - it contains the ashes of Buddha Shakya Muni, the founder of Buddhism.

Dadonghai Bay is 3 km away. from the center of Sanya, the most interesting vacation spot on the island, there is a picturesque place surrounded by two mountains "Turning Deer" and "Hare's Tail".

Clean and transparent water, golden sandy beaches attract tens of thousands of tourists here who prefer evening walks and rest in nightclubs. The crystal-clear sea washes the coastline, which resembles a young moon in its outlines. Huge selection of water and beach activities, diving, surfing. It is one of the largest and busiest bays on Hainan Island. There are many bars, restaurants and nightclubs here.

You can get to the bay by city bus or taxi. Here on the seashore is the largest seafood restaurant in Sanya. The entire coastline is built up with luxury hotels with romantic names.

Dadonghai has a large number of relatively cheap restaurants offering seafood ... Here you can taste exotic fish dishes. Dadonghai is deliberately and rapidly being turned into a powerful resort of the highest and most expensive class, so all these cheap dining opportunities may become a thing of the past.

Sanya Bay

Sanya Bay (Sanya Wan) is a rapidly developing and growing bay, in which a significant number of new modern hotels have recently opened. The bay is located 8 km from the city of Sanya, not far from the airport, but this does not affect the comfort of rest in it.

This bay has the longest sandy beach, the coastal waters are not as transparent as in Yalunwan, but the beautiful landscape that opens from the bay - white sand, coconut palms and an immense horizon of the sea - will be a significant plus. Also, the bay is famous for a large number of seafood restaurants.

The main feature of the bay is that all hotels, except for Kempinski 5 *, are located across the road from the sea, which stretches along the entire coast. The city leaders made a decision on the gradual conservation of this road, which would significantly affect the attractiveness of recreation in this bay.

To the west of the Sanya Bay is Asia's largest Buddhist Center "Nianshan".
On the territory of this temple complex, you can see an artificial island , connected to the coast by a thin isthmus, on which stands a 108-meter statue of the Buddhist Goddess Guanin. Nearby there is also the park "The Land of the World", which is famous for its landscape: on the seashore there are huge boulders of bizarre shapes, some of them are painted with calligraphic inscriptions.

Get to Sanya city and to the neighboring bays you can take a taxi, a regular bus or a tourist bus. Some hotels have their own buses that take tourists to and from the city on schedule.

Khaitan bay

A completely new bay with mesmerizing nature and clear sea. The Haitan Bay is located near the city of Sanya between the villages of Haitan and Yingzhou, where the Li people live. The coastline is 25 km long. The airport is 50-60 minutes away. There are varied and picturesque landscapes. Most of the bay has not yet been developed. The bay has its own desert with an oasis and the Nanten hot spring. All hotels are located on the first line.

In ancient times, the bay served as the entrance to Sanya. There were rich bazaars here. Local attractions are Pirate Island, Palm Island and Tenchao Town.

Until recently, the Pirates Island was closed to the public, and therefore the nature on it has been preserved in its original form.... Beaches with clean white sand, azure sea water, a rich underwater world of coral reefs, a full range of beach activities. Today it is the best place for diving in the resorts of the island of Hainan.

Shimeiwan bay

Shimei Bay - uhthat bay, today, is the farthest from the city of Sanya. Active construction is underway in the bay, according to plans, more than 5 hotels will be built in the bay, while only one has opened. It is in this bay that the beauty of the surrounding nature is striking, on which the person has had so far minimal impact.

Mountains, forest cover, clean air, a huge strip of sandy beach. This is how Yalongwan Bay looked like before the start of mass hotel development. You can only use the hotel infrastructure.

Rest in this bay is suitable for discerning tourists who want to be in silence, disconnect from the hustle and bustle of city life and admire the beautiful landscapes. Perfect for those who prefer to rest "away from prying eyes." You can also combine rest in this bay with rest in the neighboring ones.

Yalongwan Bay

Yalunwan Bay is deservedly considered one of the best tourist centers on the Chinese island of Hainan. Located in a stunningly beautiful location, this bay offers a pleasant stay.

Hainan Island is located in the southeastern part of China in the tropics. ... This location, combined with the unique nature, allows it to be called "East Hawaii". The most popular tourist area in Hainan is Yalunwan Bay, whose name translated from Chinese means "Dragon Bay". It is located in the southernmost part of the island along the coastline washed by the South China Sea.

The development of Yalunwan as a full-fledged tourist center began relatively recently - this area was identified as one of the priority areas for tourism development in 1992. Since then, the rapid development of the southern coast of Hainan has begun - from a small fishing village, this area in just 20 years has turned into a fairly large tourist center, which today belongs to the territory of the city of Sanya, despite the fact that from Yalunwan to the center of at least 25 km.

Yalongwan Bay Attractions

Yalunwan Bay - this part of Hainan Island is distinguished by high business activity - all kinds of seminars, conferences and presentations are often held in modern centers of Yalongwan. There are many shops, cafes and restaurants here. The highlight of all Yalongwan restaurants is, of course, seafood, which ends up in the hands of the chefs just a few hours after they have been fished.

Of the sights of Yalunwan, it is worth noting the central square of this area, where a stone totem measuring 27 meters is installed. Besides, here you can visit the "Museum of Tropical Seas Shells" , where unique exhibits are presented, as well as visit the "Valley of the Butterflies" - one of the largest centers for their breeding.

Treatment on the island of Hainan

The most famous and popular is the Xinglong Hot Spring Valley, where the water temperature ranges from 45 * to 65 *. Thermal springs are different - from radon (organs of movement, radiculitis, rheumatism, gynecology) to potassium-sodium (diseases of the nervous system, skin, respiratory organs), etc. (Resorts "Kanle", "Pearl", level - 4 *). No specialized treatment is available and is not practiced.

There is also a tropical plant garden in Xinglong. His visit ends with a tasting of various elite varieties of Hainan tea, as well as local coffee. The territory of Hainan is 34,000 sq. Km. It is the second largest island (after Taiwan) and the only island in China with a tropical climate.

Nantian Hot Springs

The hot springs are two large pools with different water temperatures, surrounded by palm trees. The water is supplied to the pools from a thermal spring. Bathing in the spring relieves stress, has a beneficial effect on the skin and joints.

The hot springs of Niantian ("Pearl River") on Hainan Island are used in every hotel in these places. The springs are equipped with various pools and baths with thermal water and herbal supplements. The water here is between 30 and 60 degrees Celsius, but there are also pools with a temperature of 8 degrees.

Here fish therapy is practiced in pools with small fish that gently exfoliate old skin epithelium. There are also wooden pools, boiling and cold pools containing radon, fluoride and silicic acid.

In total, there are 67 thermal springs with different compositions and, accordingly, benefits. By bathing in the springs, you can relieve stress, fatigue, relax and improve your blood circulation.

There are also special pools with any additives such as coffee, coconut milk, rose petals. There is a cafe on the territory where you can have a snack and recharge your energies.

Yanoda National Park

Yanoda National Park is 35 km away. from the city of Sanya. There is the only tropical forest in China. This place is also called “the diamond tropical zone in China”. There are dense tropical trees and multi-tiered waterfalls. The average air temperature is 24 degrees Celsius.

All local staff greet tourists with a "V" gesture and a humorous phrase "I-noooh-da." By the middle of the park, it looks a bit like a madhouse. But at the exit, when lined up in a row, the park staff accompany you with this very gesture.

The park is positioned as a reserve of untouched nature - a virgin rainforest rainforest. Well, probably it is, here we saw the only bird for the entire Chinese trip. There weren't even seagulls on the sea.

Most of the park is made of wooden decking raised above the ground. The first part of the park bears little resemblance to a forest; clearly planted plants grow here. But if you go deeper and higher, then the forest takes its toll.

There you can taste local delicacies: wild vegetables, mushrooms, chicken, fish from the reservoir and fruits. They are not only delicious but also nutritious.

It is impossible not to mention the walk by the waterfall. The waterfall is located deep in the rainforest. The height of the waterfall is 200 meters ... A stormy current, bizarre stones, huge trees - all together form an exciting natural picture.

Prices: ticket price - 100 RMB per person, ascent to the top of the waterfall - 50 RMB per person, lunch (buffet) - 48 RMB per person, walk at the top of the waterfall - 30 RMB per person. In addition, a group trip for two days and one night to the warm spring in Yanoda costs 339 yuan per person, a group trip for two days and one night with an overnight stay in the open air and barbecue costs 298 yuan per person.

Free transport service is provided at the tourist base (must be ordered in advance). Option 1: Depart from Mingzhu Sanya Square at 14:00. Second option: Departure from Yingtai Hotel Dadonghai at 14:30. The free return shuttle leaves the next day at 15:00. The stones in the valley are slippery and wet, you need to walk carefully. Active travel is not recommended for people suffering from heart failure, hypertension. They can just walk along the mountain path.

Weather in Hainan Island

Being at the same latitude as Hawaii, Hainan has similar climatic conditions and is called "Eastern Hawaii".

The average annual temperature is 24 degrees, the amount of precipitation per year is 1500 mm. The length of the coastline is 1500 km. The island is washed by the South China Sea, which is distinguished by its particularly clear water and rich marine world. The population of Hainan is 6, 7 million people, including 1.2 million representatives of the Li, Miao and Hui national minorities. Including over 2 million Chinese emigrants from Southeast Asian countries have moved to the island over the past 30 years.

The close geographical location of Hainan Island from Hong Kong makes a convenient flight on the Moscow-Hong Kong-Sanya (or Haikou) route.

The flight time on the route Hong Kong - Sanya or Hong Kong - Haikou is one hour. Flight to Sanya city from Guangzhou (Canton) - 1 hour, from Shenzhen - 1 hour, from Zhuhai (near Macau) - 1 hour. The most popular for Moscow in 2000-2001. there were routes Moscow-Beijing-o. Hainan and Moscow-Hong Kong-about. Hainan.

Hainan Island is an amazingly beautiful creation of nature and Chinese culture, which is definitely worth a visit while in China.

Views: 545

The sights of Hainan are so diverse that you will hardly be able to see at least half of these sights during your vacation, unless, of course, you plan to stay on the island for more than 2 weeks. Many sights of Hainan remain out of the sight of Russian tourists, as tour operators take tourists only to some of the most popular and most conveniently located places. However, if you wish, you can see all the sights of Hainan. In fact, even in our huge article about these sights, we could not cover all the interesting places on the island. However, we are sure that our article presents the largest number of attractions in Hainan Island.
Below are presented almost all the attractions of Hainan and brief information about each of them.

Hainan attractions map

Our article presents almost all the sights of Hainan Island, so it was difficult to find a map on which at least 50% of all these interesting places were marked. However, we have found a detailed map of Hainan attractions that will allow you to better imagine where the most famous attractions of this island are located. The map can be enlarged by clicking on it and then clicking on the special "enlarge" icon. Sorry, this map is in English.

Sanya landmarks

The surroundings of Sanya are quite rich in attractions. In principle, this is not surprising, because the resort area of ​​Sanya is developing at a rather rapid pace, and therefore some new parks, iconic buildings and other interesting places appear here again and again. If you decide to go on vacation to Sanya or some other resort near this city, then you can be sure that there will be many different attractions near your hotel or guest house. Sanya's attractions are quite varied. Here you can find religious, historical, cultural, natural attractions, as well as modern objects that can be admired.

Yanoda rain forest in Hainan

The Yanoda Rain Forest in Hainan is located 35 km from the city of Sanya. It is known as the epitome of all five known rainforest types in Hainan Province.
The Yanoda rainforest is only 45 square kilometers in area, but here you will see many different animals and plants. The Chinese government has allocated 3.8 billion yuan for the development of this area. Some of the planned expansions include a number of research and development centers as well as the construction of various eco-tourism sites throughout the region.
Where is the Yanoda rain forest in Hainan: Near the city of Sandao in the Baoting District.
To enter this forest, you need to pay an entry fee of 170 RMB.

End of the Earth in Hainan

End of the Earth (Tianya Haijiao in Chinese) is a promontory located at the foot of Shiama Hill in Tianya City, 24 km west of Sanya. This cape is very popular with Chinese tourists who come here to take pictures in front of the huge rock, which is displayed on the 2 yuan banknote. Since many Russian tourists do not know about this place, you will almost never see our compatriots here.
Hainan's End of the Earth is definitely one of the most scenic spots on the island, with white sandy beaches, turquoise sea, deep blue skies and green hills. This is the perfect place for a photo shoot. Therefore, if you want to have a photo session on the island of Hainan, you can send it here.
There is also a landscaped park, gardens, parking and shopping centers at the gates. So you can buy various handicrafts, corals and seashells in the area of ​​this cape.
The entrance fee is RMB 65.

Park "Deer turned his head"

Luhuitou Peninsula is located 5 km north of Sanya City. Here you can see a huge 12-meter monument. The name of this popular place translates as "deer that turned its head". This name was given to the Luhuitou Peninsula because of the legend. According to this legend, the brave hunter of the Li people followed the deer until it reached the edge of the cliff. After that, the deer turned its head and suddenly turned into a beautiful girl who became the hunter's bride.
Standing on the top of the hill, you can view the entire city of Sanya. At the foot of this hill you will find many shops and restaurants, as well as a small hotel.
Entrance fee to Luhuitou Park is 45 RMB.

Nantian resort area

Located in the Haitan Bay area, the Nantian resort area offers a collection of hot springs, hospitals, conference rooms, therapy sites. All of these institutions are located close to hotels. Nantian is also China's largest open-air hot spring resort.
The Nantian resort area offers 67 hot springs with different sizes and different functionality. Complete with these springs, there is a waterfall with a pool, a back massage pool, a scented pool, a fragrant flower pool, a body care pool, a medicinal pool that contains twelve different types of Chinese medicinal plants and, finally, a physiotherapy pool.
Nantian is great for groups and perfect for couples. It is one of the best wellness destinations in the world.
Entrance fee is 198 RMB per person.

Binglangu Garden

Binglangu Garden is located 28 km from Sanya City. This lush garden is dotted with Bethel trees, which are native to Hainan Island. The fruits of these trees are used in local cuisine, and therefore they are ranked among the fruits of Hainan. Betel has a significant influence on the traditions of the Li and Miao people, who often consume the fruit in order to relax the body and mind.
Where is the Binglangu Garden: Ganshi Ridge, Sandao City in the Baoting District of Hainan Island. Entrance fee to Binglangu is 195 RMB.

Nanshan tourist area

Located in the Nanshan Mountains, 40 km west of Sanya, a large-scale ecological and cultural tourism zone of about 50 square kilometers includes a center of Buddhism and some other interesting sites.
Construction of the Nanshan Buddhist Cultural Center began in April 1998. Today, the park has a number of Buddhist cultural icons, including the Nanshan Temple, Savior Garden, Longevity Valley, and Little Moon Bay. There is also such a landmark as the Guanyin statue, which has been placed in the Guinness Book of Records. Moreover, the world fame of the Nanshan zone was brought by the statue of Guanyin, which stands on the southern coast at an altitude of 108 meters.

Western island

The Western Island in Hainan Province is one of the best places for diving and water sports enthusiasts. Located about 14 km off the coast of Hainan, West Island offers all kinds of activities for an active holiday.
Do you like diving? The Western Island boasts crystal clear waters with a wide variety of marine life and extensive coral reefs. Do you want adrenaline? Sailing, water skiing, jet skis are all available on this island. Just want to relax? Relax in the shade of coconut trees, enjoy the tropical breeze, and sample fresh seafood at one of the island's finest restaurants.
Speedboats from Sanya will take you to the Western Island in just 10 minutes.

National forest park

Hainan National Forest Park is located west of Sanya City. This national park is the largest and best-preserved rainforest in China. With an area of ​​about 48 square kilometers, the park is one of the 5 largest forested areas on the island.
Here you can see a variety of tropical plants and the beauty of untouched nature. This park is considered one of China's rare ecological treasures. It consists of mountains, river valleys and lush tropical vegetation.
With more than 2,800 species of vascular plants and 4,300 species of animals, the park is considered by scientists as a natural treasure. Here you can find the foggy leopard and black gibbon, which can only be found in the Hainan province.

Monkey island

Monkey Island in Hainan Province is a unique nature reserve located in the south of Hainan Island. Monkey Island is home to over 1,500 monkeys living in the vast jungle. The park, unique of its kind, has the main feature that none of the monkeys live in cages or confined spaces, which allows many daring monkeys to interact with each other.
Monkey Island in Hainan is called Nanwan. It is the only tropical reserve for macaques in China, which is under state protection. The island has a number of unique and special features such as the longest cable car in China, an enchanting coconut garden, colorful coral reefs and unique fishing rafts.

Butterfly park

One of the most popular places for families with children on Hainan Island is the Butterfly Park. Located in the Yalongwan District, Butterfly Park is an impressive natural garden that integrates science sites, a butterfly exhibit, and shopping spots. At the Hainan Butterfly Park, visitors can interact closely with butterflies. There is also a large-scale exhibition hall with over 2,000 different species of butterflies and insects.
The butterfly park is located, as we have already said, in the tourist resort area of ​​Yalongwan, near the city of Sanya, and the entrance fee to the park is 21 yuan.

Oceanarium

The Hainan Oceanarium is located just 300 meters west of the corner of the island called Tianya Haijiao. The Oceanarium covers an area of ​​30,000 sq. m. and includes six separate areas: an area for a sea lion and dolphin show, a tropical aquarium, a bird garden, a seabird garden, a crocodile area and a turtle area.
The Hainan Oceanarium is one of the best places for children on the island. Here you can relax after a long journey and enjoy a variety of dolphin, sea lion and bird shows. There are also several restaurants and cafes inside the aquarium, so you can enjoy your lunch during one of the various shows.
The entrance fee to the Hainan Aquarium is 68 RMB.

Other attractions of Hainan Island

The outskirts of the city of Sanya are only a small area of ​​the huge island of Hainan, so the attractions of Hainan are not limited to those that we have presented below. All over the Hainan Island you will find a lot of interesting places, but, not surprisingly, the rest of Hainan's attractions are not as popular among foreign tourists as those located near the city of Sanya. Nevertheless, if you want to explore the island of Hainan as much as possible and get to know all its iconic places, then you should not ignore those attractions that are located in the center, in the north, east and west of the island, as well as interesting islands that are located relatively close from Hainan.

Paracel Islands and Xisha Island near Hainan

A huge step in the development of tourism in Hainan was the opening by China to visitors of the exciting Paracel Islands. This complex archipelago of coral reefs with an abundance of marine life and pristine tropical beaches immediately attracted a large number of tourists, which was reflected in the income of Hainan Island.
The Paracel Islands in the South China Sea are made up of over 130 small coral islands, sandbanks and reefs. The islands, divided into two groups, cover an area of ​​about 15,000 square kilometers. The Amphitrite group consists of six low, narrow islands with sandy reefs, shallow lagoons, and the Crescent group consists of eight islands forming a crescent moon.
The Paracel Islands are located 180 nautical miles from Hainan Island, equidistant from the coastlines of Vietnam and mainland China. These islands have a humid tropical climate with warm weather all year round. Like the neighboring island province of Hainan, the Paracel Islands are a great place to relax in an unspoiled paradise.
Without a doubt, the Paracel Islands are one of the most popular diving and snorkeling destinations in the world. Especially worth noting is the island of Sisha, next to which you can find several interesting diving sites.
Have the islands been under Chinese control since 1974? but they became open for tourism only in 1997, when a naval museum appeared here, as well as an airstrip. China is also planning to build a solar power plant and desalination plant on one of the islands.
There is no doubt that with tropical beaches, warm and crystal clear waters and year-round sunshine, the Paracel Islands will quickly become a desirable destination for travelers, because by their nature these islands strongly resemble the Great Barrier Reef.

Gizi bay

Gizi Bay, located on the west coast of Hainan Island, is certainly one of those places that are hardly visited by tourists. Russian tourists rarely visit this place. So you can become one of the few who will visit the picturesque Gizi bay.
The name of the bay comes from the name of the beautiful colored stones that can be found along the coast of the bay. These stones resemble Chinese chess stones.
Gizi Bay has magnificent landscapes and rocky coastline. The beaches here are also great for snorkeling, but if you want to dive here you will need to take all the equipment with you, as there are no diving centers or equipment rental shops.
The Gizi Bay is located in the Yangtze region on the Hainan Island.

Wuji village

Wuji Village is located about 10 km north of Danzhou City, surrounded by lush vegetation. It has become a habitat for tens of thousands of egrets, which is why this area is called "Heron's Paradise".
Egrets have been living in Wuji Village for over 20 years. In early April, large flocks of white herons arrive here and usually live here for more than eight months.
Recently, a tower with a height of about 20 meters was built for bird watching in Wuji Village.

Rezuo Lianguyan Botanical Garden

The Rezuo Liangguyang Botanical Garden, built in 1958, is the herbarium park of the China University of Tropical Agriculture and the China Academy of Tropical Agricultural Sciences.
More than 1000 plant species from more than 40 countries of the world are displayed here in seven exhibition halls, including the zone of tropical aromatic plants, tropical medicinal plants, tropical fruit trees, tropical oil plants and tropical ornamental plants.
This botanical garden is located in the area of ​​the city of Danzhou. The entrance fee is RMB 20 per person.

Lake Nunli

Lake Nanli is a scenic spot in the Haikou city area, located in Dingjian County, which is about 40 km from Haikou. Lake Nunli has an area of ​​about 46 square kilometers and its water has an average temperature of about 22 degrees Celsius, so you can swim here all year round.
Nunli is a large man-made lake that was built by the Dingjian people in 1958. Essentially, the lake was built by accident, as the original intention of the project was to build a reservoir on the opposite side, which was eventually built. However, water collected in the valley, which led to the formation of Lake Nunli.
The islands on Lake Nunley are unique. There are 13 islands and 5 peninsulas with various shapes.

Yingge sea salt field

Hainan Island has many unique attractions that make this island quite interesting for tourists. Even those sights that are known to Russian tourists are quite numerous, but there are many other interesting places on the island of Hainan that few of you have heard of. One of these places is the Yingge sea salt field.
Yingge is a sea salt field that was created in 1958. It is one of the largest of its kind in China and is located on the seafront in the Lengdong area. In this place, you can see the whole process of salt refining.

Border island

Fenjiezhou Island is located on the border of Lingshui and Wanning districts. In the east of the island there are rocks, reefs and strong waves, but in the west of this island there is a very calm and beautiful cove with soft white sand on the beach and crystal clear waters. Since humans only appeared on this island in the 18th century, it is no surprise that Border Island remains a lush tropical paradise that offers the opportunity to enjoy a relaxing holiday in a natural environment.
Some of Hainan's most amazing animals, including dolphins and whale sharks, are found in the waters around the island. This explains why divers often come here.

Baihua Ridge Tourist Area

Baihua Ridge Tourist Area is located 7 kilometers southeast of the city of Gening. It is a "natural greenhouse" and one of the most expensive nature reserves in Hainan Province. The tourist area has natural landscapes of virgin forest, rare and precious animals and plants, a hot spring and waterfalls, as well as cultural landscapes of local peoples.
The highest point, Baihua Ridge, is over 1,100 meters high. This tourist area boasts a wide variety of flora and fauna, as well as some impressive water landscapes. Baihua Ridge Falls is considered the most famous and most attractive attraction in the area. Considering that the water here falls from a height of 300 meters, Baihua Ridge Falls is one of the tallest and most iconic waterfalls in all of China.

Fengmu Deer Farm

Based on a peninsula next to a small lake in Hainan, Fengmu Deer Farm is home to over 700 deer, including red and sika deer. Visitors to the farm, which is located in the southwest of Tungchang County, 30 km from the city of the same name, have the opportunity to feed the deer, pet and take pictures with these gentle animals. With an area of ​​over 13 hectares, Fengmu Deer Farm is the largest of its kind in South China and one of the most interesting places in Hainan.
The entrance fee to Fengmu Reindeer Farm is only RMB 4 per person.

Coconut plantation

Dongjiao Coconut Plantation is located in Wenchang District of Hainan Island and is the most famous and largest coconut plantation in China. This coconut plantation in Hainan has over 500,000 coconut trees!
Walking along shady paths through this coconut garden provides a feast for the senses as here you will feel like paradise. On this coconut plantation, you will see coconuts of various shapes and sizes, and you can also watch how these coconuts are harvested.
The entrance fee to the Hainan Island coconut plantation is RMB 50 per person.

Maogang Qianlong Cave

Located about 30 km west of the Baoting District, Maogang Qianlong Cave takes its name from the village in which it is located. The Maogang Qianlong Cave is 440 meters long and 20 meters wide and is the largest of its kind in Hainan Province. This cave offers visitors the opportunity to see stalagmites and stalactites of various shapes and sizes.
Maogang Qianlong Cave has six cave halls of various shapes. The entrance to the cave is free.

Songtao reservoir

The Songtao Reservoir is located at the top of the Nan Du River. It was built in July 1958 but was not used until 1969. Today, this reservoir remains a key part of infrastructure and is mainly used for irrigation, water supply to cities and rural areas, flood protection and power generation from hydropower plants.
The Songtao Reservoir has a reputation as "the largest sea on the island of Hainan". The vast reservoir area combined with the beautiful surroundings make it look like an inland sea rather than a man-made lake.
The reservoir is located near the city of Nanfeng.

Lanyang Hot Springs

Lanyang Hot Springs are located in a canyon 12 km from Danzhou City and 149 km from Haikou. It is a true open-air spa with a length of 6 km, a width of 500 meters and an area of ​​about 3 square kilometers. The daily flow of water is more than 2000 tons, and the temperature of the water in the springs ranges from 43? C to 84? C. Lanyang is one of the largest resort areas in Hainan with more than ten natural springs. The water in these springs contains zinc, strontium, lithium, bromine and other trace elements necessary for the human body. In the spring morning and evening, the hot spring area is shrouded in swirling clouds of hot steam.
Boasting fantastic landscapes, Lanyang Hot Springs in Hainan have been shown to have a positive effect on rheumatoid arthritis, as well as skin and cardiovascular diseases.
Lanyang is an ideal destination for rest, relaxation and rejuvenation.
The registration fee is 280 RMB.

Cave of stone flowers

In the Danzhou city area, there is a dry cave and a flooded cave, which experts say were formed about 1.4 million years ago.
The dry cave is about 1.5 kilometers long, but only 510 meters of this cave have been explored so far. Inside this cave, there are stalactites, stalagmites, stone pillars, stone slabs, stone waterfalls, aragonite flowers and single flowers of a calcite crystal. Because of this, the cave was called the cave of stone flowers. These fascinating formations are of great scientific interest. For example, it is still unknown how stones take the form of flowers.
The flooded cave is about three kilometers long, but currently only 250 meters of this cave have been explored. At its deepest point, the water is 17 meters deep. The width of the cave ranges from 3 to 15 meters. The flooded cave is home to some endangered animals such as the giant salamander.

Haikou People's Park

Currently, the largest park in Haikou City is the People's Park. It is located in the city center and was founded in 1954. Haikou People's Park has a total area of ​​about 30 hectares. The park itself is divided into many sections, including a tropical garden, an orchid garden, and a beautiful lake. The famous Martyrs Monument is located directly opposite the park.
It is understood that only a few tourists going to Hainan Island visit Haikou City. However, if you are planning to visit this city, then you can visit the People's Park located on Gongyuan Road.

Wang Lu Yuan Park in Haikou

A beautiful park is located in the area of ​​the coastal road of Haikou City on an area of ​​1,070 acres. It is one of the largest parks in the area and has a plaza, children's playground, lawn, bamboo and tropical ornamental garden, and a go-kart track. Unique coastal and tropical landscapes and clear waters make Wang Lu Yuan Park an ideal getaway away from the hustle and bustle of Haikou's big city.
This park is also a good place for outdoor activities. As you walk through the park, you will definitely see the runners here.
Wan Lu Yuan Park is located on Binhai Avenue in Haikou City.

Dazhou Island

To the southeast of Wanning you will find Dazhou Island, which has an area of ​​4.36 square kilometers. Dazhou Island is the only Chinese manufacturing base for bird's nests, a Chinese delicacy known for its health benefits. Despite the fact that Dazhou Island is small, you will find a lot of flora and fauna here.
With amazingly clear waters and beautiful mountain scenery, Dazhou Island in Hainan Province is a great place to relax.
There is no entrance fee for access to the island, but you will need to pay for your boat trip to the island.

Bay Sun and Moon

The crescent-shaped Sun and Moon Bay in Hainan collides with the South China Sea to the south and is surrounded by mountains to the north. At the southern end of the bay, the stream of water from Niuling Hill forms a beautiful small lake that connects to the sea.
Due to its beautiful scenery, Sun and Moon Bay has been chosen as the location for many commercials.
Sun and Moon Bay is also a good surfing spot. In November 2009, the International Surfing Hainan Championship was held here. This bay is already considered one of the best surfing spots in China.

Peninsula shenzhou

The Shenzhou Peninsula is located 30 kilometers south of Wanning City. The peninsula is covered with forest and beaches, making it one of the most picturesque peninsulas in Hainan. With exceptional natural beauty, the Shenzhou Peninsula is home to four stunning bays, endless beaches, a tranquil lagoon and more.
Shenzhou is the ideal place for a restful stay in a relaxing atmosphere. In September 2005, CITIC Pacific signed a contract with the Wanning Municipal Government to invest 10 trillion yuan in the peninsula. Much work on the project is almost complete, so we can expect that in a few years, the Shenzhou Peninsula will become a pretty attractive holiday destination.

Fenjia bay

Fenjia Bay on Hainan Island is located 25 km from the center of Wenchang and approximately. It is a natural cove with a beach that stretches for 8 km. The bay known for its white sand is also called the "Silver Beach of the South China Sea".
The bay is surrounded by luscious coconut trees and strangely shaped rocks. This area is well known among most Chinese people, primarily due to the location of the episodes of the movie "Journey to the West".
To the west of the bay you can see a hill with a height of about 50 meters. From the top of this hill, you can watch the most spectacular sunrises on the island of Hainan. It is also an ideal camping site.

Mountain Seven Fairies

The national rain forest is located 9 km northeast of the Baoting District in Hainan. Here you can find the Seven Fairies Mountain, which is 1126 meters high and is one of the most famous scenic spots in Hainan Island. There are seven stones protruding into the sky at the top of the mountain, which are like seven fingers pointing towards the sky. That is why Mount Seven Fairies is also sometimes called Seven Fingers.
Numerous waterfalls are scattered around this mountain. The waterfalls near Mount Seven Fairies are home to various small creatures such as crabs, small fish and frogs. Also in the forests you can see beautiful butterflies.

Venby Peak

Wenbi Peak in Hainan, also known as Wenhao Peak, is located in the central part of the Dingyan region. Rising abruptly from the ground, this elegant and beautiful mountain peak is one of the most beautiful sites on the island of Hainan. In addition, this peak offers beautiful views of the surrounding area.
Wenbi Peak is of great religious importance to Hainan as it is a famous pilgrimage site and is widely regarded as the birthplace of Taoism in southern China.
To get to Venby Peak, you need to pay an entrance fee of 80 RMB.

Maogong mountains

The Maogong Mountains are part of the Baoguo Mountain Range, which is located about 50 km from Sanya City. Mount Maogong Shan gets its name from the fact that the entire mountain resembles the reclining figure of the founding father of modern China, Chairman Mao. The best place to view "Chairman Mao" is at the nearby Baoguo farm.
In the Mogong Mountain region, there are interesting places such as the Li village and the Miao village called the Red East Village. You can also visit a beautiful waterfall, stone scenes and other places with a special ethnic atmosphere.

Dongshan mountains

The Dongshan Mountains in Hainan are located on the seashore in the Wanning region. It is one of the most famous natural parks in Hainan and is well known as one of the most important Buddhist sacred areas of the island.
The Dongshan Mountains cover an area of ​​about 10 square kilometers, and the highest peak is about 184 meters high. From the top of this mountain, you will get an excellent view of any point in Hainan Island. Beautiful subtropical forests cover the area of ​​the mountains. In these forests, stone tablets and carvings from ancient people can be found.
In order to get to the Dongshan Mountain region, you will need to pay an entrance fee of 50 RMB.

Thonggu Ridge Tourist Area

Tonggu Ridge Tourist Area is located on the northeastern coast of Longlaw, about 40 kilometers from Wencheng. In fact, it was the first site on Hainan Island to be turned into a tourist area and is now also part of a provincial nature reserve that includes unique mountain landscapes with numerous tourist sites such as a swimming pool, grotto, rainforest and diving center.
The Tonggu Ridge Zone is one of the places on Hainan Island that independent travelers should not miss. There are no mass excursions from the Sanya city area, but still some local travel agencies offer the opportunity to go to Thong Ridge.

Mountain Five Fingers

Mount Wuji is located in the center of Hainan Island. It is the tallest mountain in Hainan province and is also regarded as one of the symbols of the island and one of the most famous mountains in China. Peaks in the shape of five fingers became the reason that the mountain was named Wuji, because in translation from Chinese this word means "five fingers".
The Li ethnic group has been living in this area for 2000 years. Several villages of this people can be found in the vicinity of Mount Vuji. So you get the opportunity to see and experience the unique lifestyle, customs and culture of this people, which is truly one of the most rewarding and inspiring experiences when visiting Hainan.

Zhanghua ancient city

The ancient city of Zhanghua was once the capital of an ancient state with the same name. Located on the west coast, the city was built in 1392 to defend against enemy attacks. The ancient walls of the city are 2.5 kilometers long, 6 meters high and 5 meters thick. Of course, against the background of the Great Wall of China, this is not such a grandiose structure, but for Hainan it is undoubtedly a landmark object.
The Zhanghua Wall is still one of the most interesting historical sites on Hainan Island.
The city of Zhanghua itself is also very picturesque. Especially beautiful is the waterfall, which is a great backdrop for beautiful photographs.

Tomb of Hai Rui

Hai Rui's Tomb is located on the western outskirts of Haikou City, 5 km from the city center. The Hai Rui Memorial Tomb is dedicated to an imperishable official who has become a kind of legend in the Hainan province. The tomb was built in 1589 during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), and some of the original gardens still remain intact. With an area of ​​over 4,000 square meters (the layout was designed in accordance with the level of official titles at the time), the tomb is one of the grandest and most important monuments on the island.
As Hai Rui's tomb has been officially recognized by the Chinese government as one of the most valuable cultural relics in the province, it is definitely worth a visit.
Address: Qiuhai Avenue, Haikou City. Entrance fee: RMB15.

Yazhou ancient city

Rich in history and ancient culture, the city of Yazhou was built by the Northern and Southern Dynasties in the 5-6th centuries AD. It then served as the capital of Yazhou County.
The ancient city is located near the city of Yacheng, which is about 40 km west of the city of Sanya in Hainan. The original city of Yazhou was built with mud bricks. It became a major political and trade center after the expansion of the Yuan, Ming and Qing.
Today, visitors to Yazhou City can see various cultural and historical relics that are scattered throughout the ancient city.

Hainan Ethnic Museum

Built in October 1986, the Hainan Ethnic Museum remains one of the largest museums on the island, with an area of ​​over 5,000 square meters.
As an ethnic museum, it displays cultural relics, photographs, costumes, folk art, and various aspects of the minorities living in Hainan province. It is located next to the beautiful Tongshi River and is tucked away in the green mountains. There are over 1,600 cultural relics in the Ethnic Museum, ranging from bronze items to ethnic costumes, ceramics and weaving.
Photos, drawings, records and relics provide insight into the political and economic development of Hainan Island at all times.
All in all, the Hainan Ethnic Museum, like a tapestry, showcases all the rich and vibrant aspects of the various nationalities living or residing in Hainan Island.
Address: Gansha Ridge Tourist Area on Hainan Island. The entrance fee is 10 RMB.

Haikou old street

The sights of Hainan are not only mountains, forests, islands and various historical and cultural sites, but also streets. If you decide to visit the city of Haikou on Hainan Island, we recommend that you go to the old street, where you can see old markets and shops. Haikou Old Street is the only area in the city where old buildings have been preserved. This led to the creation of an authentic atmosphere. Shopping enthusiasts should head to this area first, as many interesting shops can be found here, such as pet shops (puppies, chickens, cats, rabbits), household drapery shops, kitchen tools and toys.

Temples of Ugun

The Wogun Temples are located about 5 km from Haikou city center. They were originally built during the reign of the Wangli Emperor of the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644). They were subsequently renovated several times during the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911). These days they are regarded as one of the most significant spiritual areas of the island, widely renowned for their tranquil and beautiful surroundings.
If you want to get acquainted with the interesting history of these temples, then you can visit the small museum that is located next to them. With a variety of exhibitions that tell about the history of the temples and about different rulers and scholars, you can learn almost everything about this place.
Address: Haifu Road, Haikou City.
Entrance fee: RMB 25.

Minority Museum

If you are interested in the cultural attractions of Hainan, then we advise you to visit this museum. Hainan's ethnic minorities mainly inhabit the central and southern regions of the island. With a population of over 1.4 million, Li, Miao and Hui have lived on Hainan Island for thousands of years.
The Hainan Minority Museum describes the history of these incredible people, the hardships of the struggle, as well as their overwhelming success in the development of Hainan and their extraordinary culture.
With its diverse collections, the museum offers you over 2 million historical artifacts, including various items previously created by the Li, Miao and Hui peoples.
The Hainan Minority Museum documents the development of the island from the beginning of human settlement to the present day. It is one of the largest and most complete museums on the island and offers an excellent opportunity to see the history and culture of the island.
Address: Guoxing Avenue, Haikou City. Admission to the Hainan Minority Museum is free.

Fort Xiuying

In 1890, the Qing Dynasty government decreed that all coastal areas in China needed protection from possible invasion by French troops. Governor-General Zhang Zhidong came to check Haikou personally and chose the place where the fortification was to be built. After the construction of Fort Xiuying, guns were brought here from Germany.
Fort Xiuying in Hainan was built on a hill about 200 meters from the coast. The hill was chosen due to its excellent view of the Hainan Island and the main sea route. The fort received 5 cannons, each of which even had its own name.
A training center and soldier camps were established near the fort. Overall, Fort Xiuying covers an area of ​​30,000 square meters and is widely regarded as one of the greatest military installations ever built in China.

Underwater villages

Offshore at Dongjai Harbor, the underwater villages are a mysterious relic dating back over 300 years. In 1605, during a strong earthquake, the area with 72 villages sank into a watery grave. These villages have since become known as underwater villages. Many of them still remain in the water at a depth of 3-4 meters below sea level. During low tides in May or June, visitors can take a boat trip to the area and see what remains of these striking relics.

Shitian Temple

Shitian Temple in Hainan is located in Haikou City. It was originally built in honor of one of the most famous intellectuals of Hainan Island, Wang Zuo, during the reign of the Ming Dynasty. The temple itself is entirely built of wood and brick, and the pillars and beams are decorated with beautiful pictures and carvings.
The Shitian Temple consists of three parts, all of which are exquisitely decorated with paintings and carvings. The walls are decorated with paintings that recount famous moments throughout Hainan's history.
Address: Yixing Street, Xinhua District, Haikou City. Entrance fee: 16 RMB.

Volcano crater park

Interested in the natural attractions of Hainan? Then you will love this place! Park in the crater of a volcano in Hainan is located 15 kilometers from the city of Haikou. There is also a geological museum.
The eruption of the ancient Chiongbei volcano left the most solid volcanic crater in Hainan. According to geologists, the last eruption occurred about 13,000 years ago.
Today, the volcano crater park has a cultural garden, an ecological garden, a green corridor and a crater garden. These places attract visitors from China and other countries of the world. Visitors can also enjoy the rustic atmosphere of the local settlements, sample rustic homemade food and purchase local handicrafts.
The entrance fee to the park is 60 RMB.

Datyan nature reserve

Datiyan Nature Reserve is located just 20 km from dongfang city center and covers an area of ​​over 2000 hectares. It is home to over 100 different species of wildlife, including the giant panda.
The giant panda and golden monkey of Datya Nature Reserve are in great danger, and this reserve is designed to preserve unique animals.
In addition, you can see a large number of wild deer in the reserve. They look especially beautiful when wandering in groups at sunrise and sunset.
Entrance fee to Datian Nature Reserve is 12 RMB.

Bawanlin national reserve

Bawanlin National Reserve is located in the western part of Hainan Island, about 220 km from the provincial capital of Haikou. Founded in 1980, the 67 square kilometers nature reserve is one of the richest in natural resources in China. UNESCO has also established a research base for the life sciences in the area.
Thanks to the unique natural conditions and well-preserved ecosystem, rare species of fauna and flora flourish here. Interesting animals include the Hainan partridge, peacock pheasant, coconut cat and the endemic Hainan gibbon.
There are over 600 tree species in the Bawanlin Nature Reserve, of which 27 are under state protection. Bawanlin also has one of the most pristine rainforests in China, which has recently been named one of the most important bird habitats in Indo-Burmese forests.

Temple of Confucius Wenchang

The Temple of Confucius Wenchang is located in the city of Wenchang. It was originally built by the Song Dynasty, but later it moved to Wenchang during the Ming Dynasty. It is one of the best-preserved ancient architectural landmarks in the entire Hainan province and one of the most unique tourist sites in southern China. It was declared by the Chinese government as the most significant and important temple in all of Hainan.
The temple has beautiful carvings of flowers, birds and animals. The halls next to the backyard feature works by renowned artists and calligraphers.

Xinglong Tropical Garden

Xinglong Tropical Garden is located on the eastern outskirts of Wanning City, famous in Hainan for the diversity of its peoples. The Xinglong area is renowned for its beauty, with impressive waterfalls and tropical gardens.
Xinglong Garden is not only a place for sightseeing and recreation, but also a place for scientific research. In the garden houses you can see many varieties of rare plants, some of which are on the verge of extinction.
The entrance fee to Xinglong Garden is 45 RMB.

The city of Sanya and its environs are certainly great for tourists from Russia, as many establishments here are focused mainly on Russian guests, so you should not be surprised by the ubiquitous Cyrillic alphabet.
Although the resort area of ​​Sanya, which also includes the Dadonghai, Yalongwan, Haitan and Pure Water bays, is indeed a heavenly place, there are still large areas of construction sites. This situation has arisen due to the very rapid development of the region, which is turning into one of the most popular tourist centers in Asia. Nevertheless, Sanya is still a tropical paradise with a variety of fruit flavors, beautiful beaches and an informal atmosphere. For this Sanya is loved by tourists from Russia and other countries. Now the Europeans have already realized all the advantages of a vacation on the Hainan Island in China and have begun to launch charters in Sanya.

Where is the city of Sanya

Sanya City is located in the southern part of Hainan Island. It is a famous resort area in China and the second largest city in Hainan province. A wonderful legend about a deer turning its head is associated with this city, which is why Sanya is also known as the city of deer.
More than 10 ethnic groups such as Han, Li, Miao and Hui live in the area around the city. National minorities account for 44.2% of the population. Sanya City has a long history. In ancient times it was called Yangzhou Prefecture. Today Sanya is a modern city and a popular holiday destination. This is where many tropical crops are grown. There are also many tropical plants and Chinese medicinal herbs. Therefore, Sanya is called "greenhouse".
Sanya is dominated by a tropical oceanic monsoon climate. There is a lot of sunshine throughout the year and the weather is always warm. There is no winter here, and it does not rain as often during the wet season as, for example, in Phuket and Goa.

How to get to Sanya

The city of Sanya has a very convenient airport, Phoenix International Airport, which allows you to get to the popular resort area in southern China directly, and not through the capital of Hainan Island, Haikou, located in the north of the island. Although the distance between the two most important cities in Hainan is relatively short in a straight line, due to the mountain range in the center of the island, which is a national park and is covered with jungle, the roads between the north and south run along the coast of the island. Therefore, it turns out that the two main cities are located 300 km from each other.
There are train connections between Haikou and Sanya (from 1.5 to 2.5 hours, depending on the particular train). Some special trains cross all of China and travel to Hainan from Beijing and Shanghai, passing through Guangzhou.
In general, there are several ways to get to Sanya, but there is no better option for tourists from Russia than flying on a charter flight. There are actually several reasons why even independent travelers buy tours to Hainan, and do not organize the trip on their own.

Why buy a ticket to Hainan:
1. Airfare for charter flights is usually significantly cheaper than airfare for regular flights.
2. Charter flights allow direct access to Hainan, while scheduled flights will include at least one connection.
3. A direct flight from Russia to Hainan Island as part of a tourist group allows you to visit the island without a visa, while in case of an independent trip, you may need to obtain a Chinese visa.

As you can see, buying a tour with a direct charter flight is the best option for those looking to travel to Hainan Island.
When you arrive in Sanya, you will need to get from the airport to the hotel. In most cases, the transfer is included in the price of the tourist package, but if you want to get to the hotel on your own, you can use the bus or taxi. There is even a special shuttle bus that runs from the airport and takes tourists to hotels. The bus costs RMB 30 per person and departs from the arrival gate on the ground floor. True, the bus does not call in all hotels, but mainly in the largest ones. Therefore, inquire on the spot if it is possible to check in to your hotel.
A taxi from the airport to Yalongwan Bay costs around 100-120 yuan. A taxi to Dadonghai is slightly cheaper, and a taxi to Haitan Bay is slightly more expensive.

Book a transfer from Sanya airport

What to do in Sanya

The most popular activities in the famous resort area in southern China are sunbathing, reading a book, swimming and walking. Here you can add photographing on the beach, which is very popular among Russian tourists. If you want to enjoy both sunrise and sunset views, we recommend you choose a hotel in Yalongwan Bay.
If passive recreation is not what you want, then worry not, as resorts in the south of Hainan offer a good range of activities, including water skiing, snorkeling, cycling tours, jungle treks and excursions. But, to be honest, in general, the range of entertainment is not the richest. In addition, many of the entertainment options are clearly overpriced. So, for example, for 15 minutes of water skiing, you will have to pay about 200 RMB, and for a 15-minute ride on a banana, you will have to pay 180 RMB.
The cost of some excursions in Hainan is also clearly overpriced, but still you need to go for 1-2 excursions if you are visiting the island for the first time.

What to see in Sanya

Most of the interesting places on Hainan Island are located relatively close to the city of Sanya, so you do not have to get to any sight for a long time. At first glance, the number of attractions in this resort area is amazing, but if you look closely, you can understand that most of them can be called "dust in the eyes". That is, many such places were either created specifically to attract tourists, or their significance is associated with some beautiful legend, but these places themselves are not so interesting. So before deciding where to go and what to see, study all the sights well and decide what you really want to see, and what it is better not to waste time and money on. Tours in Sanya are mainly sold on a one-place, one-way basis. That is, many excursions here only include a transfer to a certain place and a ticket to visit this place. You can of course visit many places on your own in one day by taxi or rented car / motorcycle, but the fact is that most of these sites take a long time to explore. Sometimes a whole day is not enough to explore one place. Considering that the cost of visiting various parks, islands and attractions is considerable, it would be foolish to pay 100-150 yuan just to tick the box and take a couple of photos in some park.
In general, I repeat once again that you need to study the sights of Sanya well and choose the places that you want to visit the most. If you have the desire and opportunity to visit all or almost all the attractions of this resort region of China, then you can not attach importance to this choice.
Below will be presented only some of the popular sights of Sanya, but full descriptions of almost all of these places are available on our website.

Yanoda forest

It is an intact tropical environment that is protected. Here you can take part in any sporting activities or just walk between the huge trees and admire the beautiful scenery.
To get to Yanoda, you do not need to buy a tour, as there are special buses that run to the park from Sanya City. You pay for the entrance ticket right away, and the bus ride is, in fact, free for you. The bus goes to many hotels. The cost of the bus + park ticket is 170 RMB.
If you want to be more independent, you can order a taxi, but in this case you will definitely spend more money.
Despite the fact that the Yanoda forest is considered a national park, in fact, it is slightly tailored for tourists. Walking through it does not give the same feeling as walking through national parks in Thailand or Sri Lanka, for example.

Nanshan Temple

Another place to take a break from the monotonous beach holiday is Nanshan Temple because it boasts a huge 108 meters high Buddha. The entrance fee is 150 RMB, and for this money you can not only see a huge statue of Buddha, but also see other statues and temples. You can buy an excursion to this place, which costs about 240 RMB and includes lunch.

Pirate island

This small island overlooking Khaitan Bay is known as Pirate Island. It is a truly beautiful island and can be reached in 20 minutes by ferry. But prices here reach almost unimaginable levels. Many tourists come here for snorkeling and diving, as Pirate Island is surrounded by coral reefs and is therefore great for observing the underwater world. But the Chinese took advantage of this in their own way. I don't think a 45 minute dive can cost anywhere from RMB 600 to RMB 1000.
It is worth noting that smoking is prohibited on Pirate Island. However, the situation with the use of beaches is even more interesting. Although there are several beautiful beaches on this island, swimming is only allowed in the area near the pier. Any attempt to plunge into another area will be immediately interrupted by a legion of private guards (since the island is private), who are armed with a megaphone and often shout at tourists.
Obviously, due to the position of the island, there are currents around it. It is also obvious that in order to preserve the coral reef, special care and regulation of tourist activity is needed. But the result of all this is that the beautiful island looks more like a prison.

We also tried to walk around the island and forget about the blue sea, which we could not enter, but one walking path was closed and the other path was intended for golf carts and obviously not accessible to guests. It turns out that if you want to explore the island, then you need to either rent a golf cart or stay at a hotel on this island.
We do not urge you to refuse a trip to the Pirate Island, but we advise you to think carefully about this and not blindly believe the words of the guides that everything is fine there and you can do whatever you want. Still, an excursion to this island costs at least 200 yuan. There is also the option to buy a ferry ticket + an island entry ticket for RMB 168, but you will have to make your own way to the ferry departure point, which is relatively far from many of Sanya's popular hotels.

Yalongwan Central Square

This is a world of beautiful works, as here you can see totem columns, totem stones and sculptures from 24 periods. Thanks to these works of art, one can understand both the primitive cult of the Chinese nation and the desire for peace, harmony and prosperity.
Here you can also visit the Museum of Seashells, which has an area of ​​about 3000 square meters. This is the first such museum in China.
The Valley of the Butterflies in Yalunwana also deserves your attention. It is located in the north of this resort area and offers the opportunity to see about 500 rare butterflies from China and around the world. Here you can admire butterflies and tropical plants from a short distance.

Landscape zone "Border between earth and sky"

This landscape area is located on the southwest coast of Sanya and is considered the border between heaven and earth, which is why it got its name. Here on the coast there are high cliffs, which are supplied with the scriptures "border of the sky", "border between earth and sky", "pillar of the southern sky" and "southern sea, southern sky". This landscape area is one of the most famous areas in China. In the past, Chinese Mandarins (officials) lived in the area where they fled from justice. Many writers also described the local landscape in colors.
The Oceanic Tropical Zoo is located in the west of the Border Between Earth and Sky Landscape Zone. This zoo has a dolphin and sea lion hall, an aquarium, a bird hall, a waterfowl hall, a crocodile hall, and a turtle pond. Every day you can watch dolphins, sea lions and birds performances. There are over 400 sea creatures in the aquarium.

Park "Deer turned his head"

There is a peninsula between Dadonghai and Sanya Bay. The serpentine will take you to a peak of 255 meters on this peninsula. At the top there is a statue of a deer turning its head. The statue, 12 meters high, 9 meters long and 4.6 meters wide, is dedicated to the legend of a young hunter and his wife. From the top, a beautiful view of the entire Sanya Bay opens up both during the day and at night.

Yazhou old city

This old city is located in Yacheng Township, about 40 km west of Sanya City in the south of Hainan. It is one of two ancient cultural cities in Hainan that was built between 420 and 589. Since the Song Dynasty (960-1279), the Old City has been the seat of the prefecture and county administration. With its long history and numerous cultural monuments, Yazhou is a renowned tourist destination in Hainan and one of the most interesting attractions in the Sanya City area. In the northwest of Yazhou are the famous Yujing hot springs. During the Zhengde period (1506-1521) in the Ming dynasty, walls were built around the springs. Later, the wall fell, but in 1889 the head of Tang Yuan prefecture rebuilt it and also built a pavilion. Today the pavilion has long been destroyed, but the springs are almost in their original state. The water temperature here is so pleasant that you can swim any time of the year.

Purchases

The Sanya resort area will certainly appeal to shopping lovers. There are large markets and shopping malls, as well as many shops scattered throughout the city and the surrounding area.
What to buy here as a souvenir or a gift? Pearls are a very popular commodity among tourists, which are sold here at rather low prices. Crystal products are also popular. Local fruits and tea are other items that make a great gift. This is especially true for tea, as there are many types of healthy teas in Hainan. Li embroidery and local wine can be bought for yourself and as a gift for loved ones. Also, as inexpensive souvenirs, you can use products and products from coconut, of which there are a lot.
For details on what you can bring from Hainan, read our review article.
The main shopping areas in the south of Hainan are Dadonghai and Jifang Road in downtown Sanya. Famous shops and markets include Jingrun Pearl, Niulan Art Factory, Hawkbill Nanhai Store, Guobin Market and Tianyahaijiao Shopping Street. If you want to buy seafood and agricultural products, then you should go to market number 1. Sanya DC and Business Street are the best places to buy souvenirs. Hairun Pearl Science Museum and Jingrun Pearl Cultural Museum are good places to shop for pearls and related items. On Hongqi Street, you can buy products made from coconut, coffee beans, cashews and so on.

Nutrition

If you are used to stuffing yourself with seafood and expect to do it in Hainan, then you better think again. There are different types of seafood in Hainan, but the cooking methods here may differ from what you are used to. For example, they often like to use ginger for cooking some dishes. In general, we advise you to be more picky about your food, at least at first, in order to understand how your stomach feels about Chinese seafood dishes. Either way, Sanya and Dadonghai have a large selection of cafes and restaurants serving inexpensive Western food. Due to the large number of Russian tourists in these areas, there are also many establishments serving Russian cuisine, including borscht and dumplings. The situation is worse in the Yalongwan and Haitan Bay districts, where most of the restaurants and cafes are located on the territory of hotels. This means that the cost of food in them is quite high.

Minor problems

Finally, I would like to warn you about a few small problems in the city of Sanya and neighboring resorts.
The first such problem is gnats on the beach. Not to say that these midges constantly attack tourists and do not allow them to rest, but sometimes they really cause serious problems and greatly spoil the rest. We talked about these sand fleas and how to deal with them in a separate article.
Although Hainan can be called a tropical paradise, the atmosphere in Sanya and the resort areas around this city is far from that offered by many areas in Thailand or Vietnam. Construction sites are ubiquitous here. Sometimes, due to construction work, it is impossible even to relax on the beach.
Also note that there is a naval base in Yalongwan Bay. While this is not a problem for tourists, the military facility still spoils the overall atmosphere of a tropical paradise.
The problem with mice is even worse. Or rats. I don’t know exactly what the “tailed potatoes” are called, which often run between pools and unprotected places where they find food. It is clear that Sanya is not the only area in China where they live, but it is certainly the only area where, in my opinion, they are very brave and run the streets without fear. It follows that you need to carefully choose your home and, moreover, the institution for eating.