From Volcanoes To Bird Watching: Haikou Presents New Perspectives On Island's Wonders

"Hainan has more to offer than just sandy beaches and luxurious resorts," noted Liao Xiaoping, Director of the Haikou Tourism Commission. "Bordering both the sea and the river, Haikou is an award-winning city with rich and diverse tourism resources. In addition to its historically significant sites and the rich cultural heritage of its people, the city and surrounding areas offer a vast array of stunning landscapes to explore, fascinating natural wonders and mouth-watering cuisine."

Must-sees for geology fans and nature lovers

Haikou is home to dozens of volcanoes from the Quaternary period, which allowing visitors to spend more time outside at Haikou Volcanic Cluster Global Geopark during the less torrid season.

The highest volcanic cone is Mount Maanling Crater, one of the best-preserved dormant craters in the world. Sitting by the volcanoes is a village built during the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911), where the road is paved by volcanic rocks and ancient houses are side-by-side with modern buildings, creating a harmonious view of past and present.

The Tanfengyang Wetlands are also part of Haikou's volcanic landform, where tourists can observe more than 300 plant species and 50 bird species during the seasonal migrants return. The protected flora and fauna features water fern, the red junglefowl and greater coucal.

The best tropical cuisine

From seafood and fruits to chicken and lamb, the cuisine of Haikou is famous for highlighting the original flavors of the fresh ingredients. Tourists should sample the "big four": Wenchang chicken, Jiaji duck, Dongshan lamb and Hele crab. And, to further explore the Haikou lifestyle, one can try the local snacks such as Hainan rice noodles and Ching bo leung (an herbal healing soup).

About Haikou

Haikou, the capital city of China's Hainan Province, features the most beautiful scenic promenades, blue skies, jade seas, sunshine, sandy beaches and coconut palms. The city's intoxicating beauty has led to Hainan's recognition as an island of health and longevity.

For more information, please visit: http://www.haikoutour.gov.cn

SOURCE Haikou Tourism Development Commission