The Most Famous Sightseeing Attractions of Haikou, China

Haikou, located on the northern coast of Hainan Island in China, is a city that boasts numerous sightseeing attractions. As the capital of Hainan, Haikou is a vibrant city with a rich history, stunning natural scenery and interesting culture. In this blog post, we will explore the most famous sightseeing attractions of Haikou that you should not miss during your visit.

1. Haikou Volcano Park

One of the most famous attractions of Haikou is the Haikou Volcano Park which is located in the western part of the city. The park is a geological park that showcases volcanic geological relics, unique volcanic rock formations and hot springs. Visitors can explore the park on foot or by taking a cable car to the summit. Once at the top, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the city and the surrounding area.

2. Qilou Old Street

Qilou Old Street is a historic street located in the heart of Haikou. The street is over 100 years old and is famous for its traditional buildings with Chinese and Western architectural styles. Visitors can explore the street’s traditional shops, cafes, and restaurants. Qilou Old Street is also known for its tasty local snacks such as coconut juice, Hainanese chicken rice, and seafood.

3. Hainan Tropical Wildlife Park and Botanical Garden

The Hainan Tropical Wildlife Park and Botanical Garden is a popular destination for visitors to Haikou who are interested in nature and animal lovers. The park covers an area of over 1,500 acres and is home to over 400 species of animals, including giraffes, tigers, pandas and more. The botanical garden features over 3,000 species of plants, including rare and exotic species. Visitors can explore the park on foot or by taking a tram ride through the park.

4. Temple of Five Lords

Temple of Five Lords, also known as Five Officials Temple, is a Taoist temple located in Haikou’s Guoxing Avenue. The temple was built over 500 years ago during the Ming Dynasty and is famous for its intricate decoration and unique architecture. The temple is dedicated to the Five Officials of the Tang and Song Dynasties who are believed to protect the city from natural disasters and bring peace to the people.

5. Hainan Museum

Hainan Museum is a must-visit for history lovers who are interested in learning about the culture and history of Hainan. The museum’s collection features over 10,000 artifacts and exhibits that showcase the island’s history dating back to the Neolithic Age. The museum is also known for its impressive architecture that combines modern and traditional Chinese elements.

6. Wanlu Garden

Wanlu Garden is a picturesque garden located in the northwest part of Haikou. The garden features unique stone sculptures, traditional Chinese pavilions, and ponds filled with colorful fish. Visitors can also enjoy cultural performances, calligraphy and painting exhibitions, and traditional tea ceremonies.In conclusion, Haikou has many famous sightseeing attractions that offer visitors an insight into the city’s rich history, culture, and natural wonders. Whether you are interested in architecture, nature, or history, Haikou has something to offer for everyone. Make sure to add these famous attractions to your itinerary and make the most of your visit to this beautiful city in China.

The Insider’s Guide to Haikou, China

Haikou is the capital city of Hainan province, located on the southernmost tip of China. As a tropical island city, Haikou boasts blue skies, white sandy beaches, and palm tree-lined streets. Here is an insider’s guide on the most famous sightseeing attractions of Haikou, as well as some off-the-beaten-path suggestions to help you make the most of your visit.

Attractions

There are plenty of famous sightseeing attractions in Haikou that you don’t want to miss. These are some of the most popular ones:

Haikou Volcano Park

Haikou Volcano Park is a national geopark and nature reserve, located 15 kilometers from downtown Haikou. The park features over 40 volcanic cones, craters, lava caves, and hot springs, creating a unique landscape that will leave you amazed.

Wugong Temple

Wugong Temple is a renowned Buddhist temple and also one of the oldest historical sites in Haikou. It was built during the Tang dynasty (618-907) and is dedicated to five Tang dynasty officials who were exiled to Hainan Island. The temple features elaborate Chinese architecture and tranquil gardens, making it a peaceful place to visit.

Hainan Museum

Hainan Museum is a modern building that houses a diverse collection of artifacts from Hainan Province. From prehistoric times to modern history, the museum covers the island’s rich history and culture through exhibits of pottery, jade carvings, bronze ware, and folk art.

Dining Spots

Haikou is famous for its Hainanese cuisine, which features fresh seafood and tropical fruits. Here are some local dining spots that you should not skip:

The Qiongtai Academy Restaurant

The Qiongtai Academy Restaurant is a historical building complex and also a famous restaurant in Haikou. It was once the place where the literati gathered in ancient times. Now, it serves traditional Hainanese cuisine in an elegant and refined setting.

Guoshang’s Fried Rice Noodle

For a quick and delicious meal, head to Guoshang’s Fried Rice Noodle. This local eatery stalls in cooking up wok-fried rice noodles with fresh vegetables, eggs, and seafood caught from the nearby sea.

Cultural Experiences

Haikou is filled with cultural experiences that will enrich your understanding of Hainan Island’s heritage. Here are some suggestions:

Hainan Opera

Hainan Opera is a unique folk art form that originated in Hainan Province. It is a traditional Chinese opera with distinct Hainanese characteristics, such as its use of local dialect, distinctive musical instruments, and vivid makeup. Catch a performance at the Hainan Province People’s Grand Theatre in Haikou.

Hainan Li Brocade

Hainan Li Brocade is a traditional textile handicraft made by members of the Li ethnic minority that lives on Hainan Island. The intricate weaving technique that creates the brocade has been passed down for centuries. Visit the Haikou Li Brocade Cultural Heritage Center to learn more about this unique art form and shop for some beautiful handmade textiles.

Local History

Haikou has a rich history that dates back over 4,000 years. Here are some of the historical sites that you should visit to learn more about the city’s past:

The Xiuying Emplacement

The Xiuying Emplacement is a historical site located on the outskirts of Haikou City. It was built during the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911) as a coastal defense base. The site features huge cannons, barracks, and tunnels, allowing visitors to see what life was like for the soldiers who once manned the defenses.

The Tomb of Hairui

The Tomb of Hairui is one of the most famous historical sites in Haikou. Hairui was a famous official during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) who was known for his honesty and integrity. The mausoleum is elaborately decorated and offers a glimpse into the life of a celebrated official from ancient times.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you have time to wander off the beaten path, Haikou offers some alternative sites to explore:

The Haikou Mangroves

The Haikou Mangroves cover an area of over 20 square kilometers and are home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. Take a boat ride through the mangroves to be close to nature and appreciate the scenic beauty of the tropical landscape.

The Hainan Tropical Wildlife Park and Botanical Garden

The Hainan Tropical Wildlife Park and Botanical Garden are located on the outskirts of Haikou City. The vast park features over 400 tropical plant species. You can also see animals such as tigers, elephants, and pythons. It is a unique way to get close to wildlife and learn about the tropical ecosystem.

Haikou is a tropical paradise filled with stunning natural scenery, rich cultural heritage, and unique culinary experiences. Now that you have this insider’s guide, you’re ready to take on all the famous and off-the-beaten-path attractions that this city has to offer.