Haikou is the main city on Hainan Island Province in south China. It sits at the top of the island and is the main gateway to this slice of Chinese paradise. Haikou has a busy airport and great shopping.
It is an unhurried place, differing enormously with most other cities on the Chinese mainland. The city is green with fresh air and many streets are lined with huge coconut palms. Wandering down Old Street is a popular pastime, loaded as it is with street vendors, restaurants, and bars.
Attractions in Haikou include the nearby Wugong Temple, for a look at traditional China; the Tomb of Hairui in Xiuying district; and the 19th century coastal fort of Xiuying Battery. For beaches, take a bus west or east. Holiday Beach is a few minutes to the west.
Getting There & Away
Haikou Meilan International Airport is the best way in, with short flights from Hong Kong (2 hours, 30 minutes), Beijing (3 hours, 20 minutes), as well as from Singapore and Kuala Lumpur. The Nanning-Guangzhou Expressway runs to Zhanjiang, from where the G207 heads to Hai’an port. Ferries go direct to Haikou form here. Combination train/ferry tickets can be had from Guangzhou. Buses also do this route and the ferry crossing is 1 hour, 30 minutes.
Things to Do
Haikou Attractions
- Wugong Temple
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A short taxi ride from downtown, the city’s most high profile temple hails from the ming dynasty.
Side trips from Haikou
- Holiday Beach
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A fun beach backed by bars and restaurants, which is accessed by bus number 40 via xixiu beach.
- Haikou Shishan Crater Cluster National Geological Park
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Situated 15kms southwest of haikou, this protected area is one of the most beautiful on hainan.