Haikou Travel: 100 Questions Answered based on NeemTime research
General & City Vibe
Q: Is Haikou a good travel destination?
A: Haikou often receives mixed reviews. It’s described as a typical Chinese Tier 2 city with an “island flavor.” While it has history and culture, many tourists head south to Sanya for the best beaches. It’s a fine city to explore for a couple of days.
Q: Is Haikou a boring city?
A: Some visitors found Haikou “really boring” if they were primarily looking for top-tier beaches or resort experiences. However, those interested in history, local markets, and volcanic landscapes found plenty to do.
Q: How is the atmosphere in Haikou compared to Sanya?
A: Haikou is a major administrative city, more about local life and business. Sanya is primarily a holiday town with better beaches and a stronger expat/tourist scene (especially in Dadonghai).
Q: How many days should I spend in Haikou?
A: For a quick look at the main sights, 1-2 days is often enough. If you plan to explore the surrounding parks and volcanic areas, 3 days would be better.
Q: What is the weather like in Haikou?
A: Haikou is tropical, generally very very damp and humid, especially in the winter and spring. Summers are hot.
Q: What is a “must-see” attraction for a first-time visitor?
A: Qilou Old Street (Sotte Porticos Streets Maikou) is consistently recommended for its unique arcade-style architecture and vibrant atmosphere.
Q: Is Haikou heavily affected by typhoons?
A: Haikou can be affected by typhoons, typically during July and August. Travelers should check forecasts, but the city usually recovers quickly from surface damage.
Q: Does Haikou feel like a typical Chinese city?
A: Yes, it has the characteristic traffic, scooters everywhere, and modern high-rises, but with a unique island and tropical flair.
Q: What is Haikou’s connection to its past?
A: Sites like the Five Figures’ Temple (Wugong Temple) and the Tomb of Hai Rui offer a deep dive into the island’s history, often related to exiled officials.
Q: Are there many “white people food” options in Haikou?
A: Not as much as in the popular Sanya tourist areas like Dadonghai, which has specific expat bars and restaurants. Haikou is more focused on local Chinese cuisine.
Things to Do & Attractions
Q: What is the main geological attraction near Haikou?
A: The Haikou Volcanic Cluster Global Geopark (Leiqiong Global Geopark), known for its dormant craters, lava tunnels, and volcanic rock formations.
Q: Is the Volcanic Geopark worth the trip outside the city?
A: Yes, it’s highly recommended for nature enthusiasts, offering scenic hikes and a sense of Hainan’s dense jungle. A taxi ride is about 10-15 km from the city.
Q: What is special about Qilou Old Street?
A: It features unique arcade-style architecture blending Chinese and European influences, housing shops, restaurants, and cultural gems. It’s great for a walk and exploring a lively night market.
Q: Where can I see local culture in Haikou?
A: Try to attend a performance of Qiong Opera, the traditional art form of Hainan, with elaborate costumes and singing.
Q: Does Haikou have good beaches?
A: The beaches closest to the city are often described as “terrible” or “not too attractive.” Holiday Beach is the most popular option in the city for relaxation and watersports, but the best beaches on the island are found further south near Sanya.
Q: What is the Mission Hills Huayi Brothers Feng Xiaogang Movie Town?
A: A popular film and television base featuring architectural styles inspired by Republican-era China and director Feng Xiaogang’s films, great for unique photo opportunities and night views.
Q: Is there a good museum in Haikou?
A: Yes, the Hainan Museum is highly rated (4.8/5 on Trip.com), offering a comprehensive look at the island’s history, culture, and natural environment.
Q: Where can I enjoy nature besides the volcano?
A: Visit the Hainan Tropical Wildlife Park and Botanical Garden for exotic flora and fauna, or the Evergreen Garden for a leisurely stroll and a beautiful sunset spot.
Q: Are there any hidden gems in Haikou?
A: Some suggestions include exploring the area around the Haikou Clocktower River (which sometimes has a hidden volleyball court and a small night market), or going for a workout under the Clocktower bridge.
Q: Where can I see mangrove forests?
A: The Dongzhai Harbor Mangrove Natural Reserve Area or the Meishe River National Wetland Park are excellent places for bird watching and walking along boardwalks through the lush mangroves.
Q: What’s a good place for families with young children?
A: Baishamen Park is an amusement park with carousels, go-karting, and other rides for families.
Q: Where is a good place for photography, especially at night?
A: The Haikou Century Bridge is said to be enchanting at night when its lights reflect on the water.
Q: What’s the best time to visit the Qilou Old Street?
A: Late afternoon into the evening, as the street comes alive with night markets and a vibrant atmosphere.
Q: Can I golf in Haikou?
A: Yes, Haikou is noted for its Mission Hills Golf Club and resorts.
Q: What cultural relics can I see in Haikou?
A: The Hainan Museum contains numerous ancient artifacts and cultural relics related to the island’s heritage.
Food & Drink
Q: What are the must-try Hainanese dishes?
A: You must try Wenchang Chicken and fresh seafood. Hainanese Chicken Rice in Hainan is different from the version found in Singapore (Wenchang is real chicken that runs around, not a caged factory chicken).
Q: Where should I eat seafood?
A: Haikou has many local food markets, but tourists are warned to be careful and not get “f***ked on price.” It’s best to eat at reputable restaurants rather than buying directly from street vendors.
Q: What’s a typical local Haikou breakfast?
A: While not explicitly named in the snippets, look for local noodle dishes (like Hainan’s rice noodles, Qingbuliang) or local dim sum/snacks.
Q: Is it easy to find Western food?
A: Western brands like Starbucks and Burger King are present at the airport, and other Western chains and international cuisine can be found in the city center and major malls.
Q: Where can I try the famous coconuts?
A: Consider a day trip to the Dongjiao Coconut Plantation near Wenchang, which is one of the largest in the world.
Q: Are there many bars or a strong nightlife scene for expats?
A: Haikou has clubs, some hiring foreigners, but the major expat bar scene is more concentrated in Sanya (e.g., Dadonghai area with places like Dolphin and JD Bar).
Q: Is the food affordable?
A: Prices are generally “like any other bigger mainland Chinese city,” meaning it’s often affordable, especially for local dishes.
Q: Can I use food delivery apps in Haikou?
A: Yes, apps like Meituan and Dianping (for reviews) are essential for food delivery and finding local restaurants.
Q: Is it safe to eat street food?
A: Generally, yes, but exercise the usual caution one would in any large city’s street markets, especially with seafood.
Q: What is Qingbuliang?
A: It is a famous Hainan cooling dessert soup, a must-try, often made with coconut milk and various ingredients like taro, beans, and jellies.
Transportation & Getting Around
Q: What is the best way to get from Haikou Airport (HAK) to the city center?
A: Options include:
Taxi: About 30 minutes, costing around ¥50-60.
Airport Shuttle: Costs around ¥15-20 per person to downtown.
Commuter Train: Fast and cheap (¥2-10) to Haikou East Railway Station.
Public Bus: No. 21 and No. 41 go downtown (around ¥5).
Q: How can I get around the city?
A: Public transportation options include: Buses, Commuter Trains (mainly for the east-west line/airport), Taxis, Didi (China’s Uber), and Motorbike taxis (mostly electric).
Q: Is it easy to hail a taxi?
A: Taxis are plentiful and efficient. Insist on using the meter (dabiao) to avoid overpaying.
Q: Should I use flagged-down taxis or ride-hailing apps?
A: Didi (China’s Uber) is reliable, cheap, and eliminates language/meter issues. Flagged-down taxis are fine, but be wary of illegal touts at the airport.
Q: What is the typical fare for a short taxi ride?
A: The meter starts at ¥10, and a typical short trip is around ¥15.
Q: What is the range of a motorbike taxi fare?
A: You can get anywhere within the city for about ¥5-10.
Q: Is Haikou bike-friendly?
A: Yes, Haikou is very bike-friendly with wide side ways for both bikes and scooters. There are beautiful car-free paths, like the one along the riverside road (滨江路).
Q: How do I get to Sanya from Haikou?
A: The Hainan Eastern Ring High-Speed Railway connects Haikou and Sanya. The journey is fast (1.5-2 hours) and comfortable.
Q: How can I buy high-speed train tickets?
A: The Trip.com app or the official 12306 app (Chinese version recommended) are the easiest ways to book. Foreigners must use the manned desk at the station to scan their passport for verification.
Q: Can I take a train off the island to the mainland?
A: Yes, there is a regular-speed train link (e.g., to Guangzhou). The trains are loaded onto ferries to cross the strait.
Q: How long is the train journey to Guangzhou?
A: The entire one-way journey takes about 11-12 hours.
Q: Are there ferries to the mainland?
A: Yes, frequent ferries run between Haikou’s ports (Xiuying Port, New Port/Xingang) and mainland ports like Xuwen and Beihai.
Q: How long does the ferry to Xuwen Port (mainland) take?
A: Around 60-90 minutes, depending on the specific port used (Xuwen Port vs. Hai’an New Port).
Q: Are there long-distance bus connections to mainland cities?
A: Yes, buses connect Haikou to cities like Guangzhou (7.5-12 hours) and Guilin (10 hours).
Q: Which long-distance bus station is the biggest?
A: Haikou South Bus Station is the biggest long-distance bus station on Hainan.
Q: What is the Commuter Train useful for in Haikou?
A: Mainly for getting to the Haikou Meilan International Airport (HAK) and the two major railway stations (Haikou and Haikou East).
Q: Should I hire a private car service?
A: For just exploring Haikou, Didi is cheap and convenient. A private hire vehicle might be more beneficial for day trips to remote areas or for travelers with specific needs (like large luggage or late arrivals).
Q: How much is the taxi from Haikou Meilan Airport to Haikou Railway Station?
A: About ¥90.
Q: Do taxi drivers speak English?
A: Expect limited English. It is best to have your destination address screenshotted in Chinese to show the driver.
Q: What is the travel time from Haikou Meilan Airport to Sanya by high-speed rail?
A: About 70-120 minutes (1.5-2 hours).
Money, Payment & Connectivity
Q: What is the main mode of payment in Haikou/China?
A: Digital payments are extremely popular. WeChat Pay and Alipay (QR codes) are the primary modes of payment, even for street hawkers.
Q: Should I use cash?
A: Yes, carry some cash (RMB), as refusing legal tender is illegal. While many places use QR codes, smaller shops and older businesses will accept cash.
Q: Can I use my foreign credit card directly?
A: Foreign cards are accepted at major hotels and sometimes some smaller chains, but they are generally uncommon for small to medium businesses.
Q: How can I use WeChat Pay or Alipay as a foreigner?
A: You need to set up the apps, link them to your international credit card (Visa/Mastercard, like a Wise Visa card), and potentially complete a passport verification process.
Q: Is it true that a foreign WeChat Pay account can be blocked?
A: Yes, some travelers report their WeChat Pay being blocked due to ‘spamming’ (which is apparently common for traveler accounts). Having Alipay as a backup is highly recommended.
Q: Does Alipay charge a fee for international card payments?
A: It has been reported that Alipay might charge an international card fee for transactions larger than ¥200. Split large payments to avoid the fee.
Q: How much cash should I carry?
A: It’s recommended to carry at least ¥200-300 cash for emergencies, as a backup if your phone or digital payment fails.
Q: What is the cost of living like?
A: The cost of living is comparable to other Tier 2 mainland Chinese cities.
Q: Can I get a SIM card easily?
A: Getting a SIM card is a process that requires showing your passport at the official store. Alternatively, buying an international eSIM/SIM in advance (e.g., from your home country) or at the airport may be easier.
Q: Which VPN is recommended for China?
A: LetsVPN has been mentioned as a reliable option, but having a working VPN is essential for accessing many Western websites and apps.
Q: What maps app should I use?
A: Amap (Gaode Maps) or Baidu Maps are the most accurate for navigation in China. Google Maps works via VPN but may have limited local use.
Q: Is a translation app necessary?
A: Highly recommended, especially outside of major tourist spots, as English knowledge is limited. Download an app with offline translation capability.
Q: Can I rent a power bank easily?
A: Yes, power bank rental stations are very convenient and common in public places.
Q: Will my foreign Visa/Mastercard be accepted in small shops?
A: Unlikely. Digital payments (Alipay/WeChat Pay) or cash are the only reliable options for small businesses.
Q: Where can I get toiletries and basic clothing?
A: Don’t buy at the airport. You will find plenty of stores like Miniso and similar local shops in town.
Layover & Logistics
Q: I have an 11-hour layover in Haikou. Is it worth leaving the airport?
A: Yes, with 11 hours, you can easily take a taxi to the city center, walk around the Old Street, get lunch, and return to the airport with no issue, especially if your luggage is checked through.
Q: I have a 24-hour layover. What should I prioritize?
A: Prioritize the Qilou Old Street for its atmosphere and architecture, and maybe a visit to the Hainan Museum or a quick trip to the Volcano Geopark.
Q: What is the airport (HAK) like?
A: Haikou Meilan Airport (HAK) is generally considered good, with decent duty-free shopping (as Hainan is a duty-free island) and some Western food options.
Q: Where can I sleep during an overnight layover at the airport?
A: There is an airport hotel and often cheaper “semi-capsule” sleep hotels/pods available near or slightly outside the airport (10 minutes by taxi).
Q: Do I need a visa for a short layover in Haikou?
A: China offers a 30-day Visa-Free Entry for Hainan for citizens of certain countries. Many international transit passengers also qualify for a Temporary Entry Permit (e.g., 24, 72, or 144-hour transit), but always check your specific nationality and flight route.
Q: Do I have to go through immigration on a transit flight through Haikou?
A: Yes, typically on an international-to-domestic flight leg, you must disembark, go through immigration, and then proceed to the domestic flight terminal (often using the same plane).
Q: Do I have to pick up my checked luggage during a transit through Haikou?
A: This depends on the airline and your specific ticket. It’s often transferred automatically, but you should confirm with the airline at check-in.
Q: How far in advance should I arrive at the train station?
A: China’s High-Speed Rail stations are very efficient but have security and passport checks. Arrive with ample time (e.g., 45-60 minutes) before departure, especially if you need to use the manned ticket desk.
Q: What should I bring with me everywhere?
A: Your passport (it acts as your ticket for the train/some attractions), and your phone (for payment and navigation), and some toilet paper (many public toilets do not provide it).
Q: What’s a cultural “no-no” I should be aware of?
A: Smoking in air-conditioned restaurants is common but is considered a cultural annoyance by some visitors and is generally a no-no in many places internationally.
Day Trips & Island Travel
Q: Is Haikou a good base for exploring the rest of Hainan?
A: Yes, Haikou is a great starting point, with the high-speed rail offering quick access to the rest of the island, including Wenchang, Bo’ao, and Sanya.
Q: What’s a good day trip from Haikou besides Sanya?
A: Consider visiting Wenchang (for the Confucius Temple and the Coconut Plantation) or the nearby geological attractions.
Q: What is the best way to travel around the island?
A: The Hainan High-Speed Loop Train is the fastest and most efficient way to circle the island.
Q: Is it possible to mountain bike or hike in the Central Mountains?
A: Yes, Hainan’s Central Mountains, like Wuzhishan (Five Finger Mountain), offer opportunities for hiking and mountain biking, though Wuzhishan might have restrictions for foreigners.
Q: Where can I see traditional village life?
A: Exploring areas around the Volcanic Geopark or outside the main cities may give you a glimpse of more traditional Hainanese life.
Q: Is it easy to find English speakers outside of Haikou and Sanya?
A: No. Locals outside the two main cities primarily speak Mandarin or the local Hainanese dialect. Basic Mandarin or a good translation app is essential.
Q: Is a day trip to the Dongzhai Harbor Mangrove Reserve doable?
A: Yes, it is located nearby and is a popular day trip for nature lovers.
Q: What are the best beaches near Sanya I can get to easily?
A: Dadonghai, Yalong Bay, and Haitang Bay are considered the best beaches and are easily accessible by the high-speed rail or bus from Sanya.
Q: What’s the main attraction in Wenchang?
A: The Wenchang Confucius Temple and the Dongjiao Coconut Plantation.
Q: Is it worth going to Bo’ao?
A: Bo’ao is famous for the Bo’ao Forum for Asia and is a smaller town with serene waterways and a laid-back atmosphere, a good stop on the high-speed rail loop.
Practical & Miscellaneous Tips
Q: Do I need to register with the police upon arrival?
A: Yes, foreigners must register their stay with the local police within 24 hours unless they are staying in a hotel that handles the registration for them (which most major hotels do).
Q: Is it a good idea to download a coffee app in advance?
A: Yes, apps like Luckin Coffee are very popular, affordable, and have branches everywhere, making it easy to order and pick up coffee.
Q: How is the social order in Haikou?
A: Haikou has been described by a recent traveler as having a “very good social order.”
Q: How should I handle the humidity?
A: Pack light, breathable clothing, and stay hydrated, especially during the summer months.
Q: What is the best way to secure my phone/battery life?
A: Carry a charged power bank, as you will rely heavily on your phone for navigation, payment, translation, and tickets.
Q: Should I book my hotel in advance?
A: Recommended, as it ensures your police registration is handled automatically and you have accommodation in the location you prefer.
Q: Are there any specific scams to watch out for in taxis?
A: Taxis refusing to turn on the meter can happen (though it is rare), so insist on using the meter or use Didi. Be cautious of unregulated taxi touts at the airport.
Q: What’s the local language?
A: The local language is the Hainanese dialect, but Mandarin Chinese is the official language spoken by most people, especially in the service industry.
Q: Is Haikou a good place to live for a year?
A: Some expats have lived in Haikou and loved it, describing it as a good “melting pot of people” with reasonable prices, though visitors note a lack of specific Western/expat amenities compared to Sanya.
Q: What is the most important piece of advice for a first-time visitor to Haikou/China?
A: Set up Alipay and WeChat Pay and a reliable VPN before you go, and always carry your passport.