Haikou - Discovering China

Travelling to Haikou

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Haikou, a pretty good destination in China (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Haikou and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Haikou, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through China, here's everything to know about Haikou for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Haikou

Haikou is the capital city of Hainan Province, which is an island in southern China. It is known as the "Coconut City" because of its abundant coconut trees. Haikou has a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round and is a popular tourist destination for its beaches, hot springs, and cultural attractions such as the Temple of Five Lords and the Hainan Museum. It is also an important transportation hub, with an international airport and several ports that provide access to mainland China and Southeast Asia.

What to visit in Haikou

Sure, here are some popular tourist attractions in Haikou, China, along with a brief description of each: 1. Hainan Museum - This is a great place to learn about the history and culture of Hainan Island. It features artifacts and exhibits ranging from prehistoric times to the present day.
2. Qilou Old Street - This pedestrian street has a mix of old and new buildings, with traditional Qilou architecture from the early 20th century. There are shops, cafes, and restaurants to explore along the street.
3. Wanlv Park - This park is a peaceful oasis in the middle of the city. There is a lake, gardens, and walking paths where you can enjoy nature and escape the busy city streets.
4. Haikou GuanlanHuaguoshan Golf Course - This golf course is known for its stunning scenery and challenging holes. It is set in the foothills of a mountain range and offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
5. Five Officials' Temple - This historic temple dates back to the Ming Dynasty and is dedicated to five officials who are said to have contributed to the local community. It has a beautiful garden and several ornate halls.
6. Hainan Tropical Wildlife Park and Botanical Garden - This park is a great place to see a variety of exotic animals and plants. There are over 4,000 animals from more than 200 species, as well as a large collection of rare tropical plants.
7. Hainan Volcanic Cluster Global Geopark - This geopark is a unique natural wonder with volcanic landforms and ancient lava flows. There are hiking trails, scenic viewpoints, and educational exhibits about the geology of the area.
8. Haikou Clock Tower - This clock tower is a landmark in the city center and a symbol of Haikou's history. It was built in 1929 during the colonial era and has been restored to its original condition. These are just a few examples of the many attractions you can explore in Haikou.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in China, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.

When to go on holiday to Haikou

The best time to visit Haikou is from October to March, when the weather is cooler and drier. This is the dry season and temperatures range from 16°C to 25°C. The summer months from April to September are hot and humid with temperatures reaching up to 35°C. The rainy season is from May to October, so if you don't like rain, avoid these months. Keep in mind that the peak season for tourism is during the Chinese New Year holiday period, which falls in January or February, so prices are higher and there may be crowds.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Haikou

There are several options to get to Haikou, China. The most common ways are: 1. By Air: Haikou Meilan International Airport is a major international gateway to Hainan Island. The airport is located approximately 28 kilometers from Haikou city. There are regular flights to Haikou from major cities across China and from other countries like South Korea, Malaysia, Thailand, and Singapore.
2. By Train: There are several train stations in Haikou, including Haikou East Railway Station, Haikou Railway Station, and Haikou North Railway Station. You can take a train from major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Chengdu to Haikou.
3. By Bus: There are regular long-distance buses that connect Haikou to major cities and towns in Hainan Island and neighboring provinces.
4. By Ferry: There are regular ferries that operate between Haikou and other Chinese cities like Zhanjiang and Beihai.
You can choose the mode of transport based on your budget, travel time, and convenience.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Haikou, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Haikou

Sure, here are some typical foods of Haikou, China with a short description for each of them: 1. Wenchang Chicken - This is a famous dish from Wenchang, a region located near Haikou. The chicken is boiled and served with ginger and scallions. It's known for its tender and succulent meat.
2. Jiaji Duck - Another specialty dish from Haikou, this duck is roasted with special herbs and spices for a unique flavour. It's typically served with a side of sticky rice and chopped green onions.
3. Hainanese Rice Noodles - These are long, thin noodles made from rice flour and served in a light broth with your choice of meat, seafood, or vegetables. They make a delicious and hearty meal.
4. Hele Crab - Found in the wetlands surrounding Haikou, this type of crab is known for its sweet and tender meat. It's typically served steamed or stir-fried with garlic and scallions.
5. Dongshan Mutton - This is a traditional dish from Dongshan Island, just off the coast of Haikou. The mutton is slowly stewed in a rich and flavourful broth until it's fall-off-the-bone tender.
6. Haikou Seafood - With its location on the southern coast of China, Haikou is known for its fresh and delicious seafood. From lobster and shrimp to squid and octopus, there's no shortage of options to choose from. Many seafood restaurants in Haikou allow you to choose your own catch from tanks or displays before cooking it to order.
You can find general info about typical foods in China here.

Is Haikou an expensive destination for tourists?

Haikou is generally considered to be a affordable destination for tourists, especially compared to other Chinese cities such as Beijing or Shanghai. However, prices can vary based on the type of experience you are looking for. Luxury accommodations, high-end restaurants, and exclusive activities can certainly add up and make your trip more expensive. On the other hand, there are many affordable options for lodging, dining, and sightseeing that can help keep your expenses under control. It's always a good idea to research and plan ahead to find the best deals and options that fit your budget.

Where to find accomodation in Haikou

Haikou, the capital city of Hainan Province, China, is divided into four administrative districts: Longhua District, Meilan District, Qiongshan District, and Xiuying District. For visitors, the most popular area to find accommodations in Haikou is the Meilan District. This district is located in the center of the city and is known for its commercial and business centers, fashionable shopping malls, and a variety of international restaurants. It is also home to many attractions such as Hainan Provincial Museum, Binlang Ethnic Village, and Hairui Tomb Park. Another area to consider for accommodation is the Xiuying District. This district is known for its beautiful coastline and beaches, such as Holiday Beach and Xixiu Beach. It's also home to the scenic Five Finger Mountain and the Haikou Mangrove Nature Reserve.
Overall, both Meilan District and Xiuying District are excellent options for visitors to Haikou, depending on your preference for urban or coastal environment.
You can check hotel prices at Haikou here:
Booking.com

Is Haikou a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Haikou is generally considered a safe place for tourists to visit. The crime rate in Haikou is relatively low compared to other cities in China. However, as in any city, it is important to take basic precautions when travelling such as keeping an eye on your belongings, avoiding poorly lit or isolated areas at night, and being aware of your surroundings. It is also advisable to check with your government's travel advisory website for any specific safety concerns.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in China here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Haikou.

What type of travelers will enjoy Haikou the most?

Haikou, China offers something for everyone, but it is especially a great destination for families and couples who enjoy nature and outdoor activities. The city boasts beautiful beaches, hot springs, and nature parks that offer a variety of activities, such as hiking, biking, swimming, and fishing.
For couples, the city's scenic attractions and romantic restaurants and cafes make for a perfect combination. The seafood restaurants along the coast offer beautiful views and fresh, flavorful meals.
Young people looking for fun might also enjoy Haikou, especially due to its vibrant nightlife scene. The bars and nightclubs in the city cater to different tastes and preferences, with live music and dance performances.
Overall, Haikou is a destination that can be enjoyed by people of all ages, and it offers a unique experience that combines ancient and modern Chinese culture.

How to get around Haikou

To move around Haikou, you can use different types of transportation such as buses, taxis, bikes or rental cars. Buses are the most affordable option, with a good network of routes covering the main areas of the city. Taxis are also widely available and relatively inexpensive. Bikes are a popular choice and can be rented in different parts of the city, with bike lanes available on many streets. Rental cars are also an option if you want more flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings.

What to see around Haikou

Here are some places you can visit on a day trip from Haikou: 1. Qiongzhou Strait: Take a ferry ride across the Qiongzhou Strait to visit the beautiful island of Hainan.
2. Dongzhai Port Nature Reserve: A nature reserve where you can see many endangered species of animals.
3. Wugong Temple: A temple dedicated to the famous scholar Wugong from the Tang dynasty.
4. Wenchang: A historical town known for its ancient buildings and beautiful scenery.
5. The Yanoda Rainforest Cultural Tourism Zone: A scenic park that features crystal-clear rivers, waterfalls, and exotic plants.
6. Coconut Island: A serene island with sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. 7. Haidian Island: A picturesque island with amazing beach options, numerous restaurants, sea views, and towers.
8. Wuzhishan National Park: A protected area that has several scenic spots like mountains, valleys, lakes, and falls. I hope this helps!
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