Plan a CruiseHaikou, often called the 'Coconut City', is the capital of Hainan Province, China's second largest island. The city is a key administrative, economic, cultural, and transportation hub. It is situated at the northern end of Hainan Island, on the west bank of the Nandu River estuary, which gives the city its name, meaning 'Mouth of the Sea'.
The Port of Haikou is located in the western suburb of the city, within Haikou Bay. Haikou boasts a long coastline with popular bathing beaches like Holiday Beach and Xixiu Beach. The downtown area is characterized by coconut palm-lined streets and modern amenities. For independent exploration, taxis are the recommended and most efficient mode of transport.
Getting Around from the Port
Taxis are the best way to get around Haikou. They are generally cheap and plentiful. When taking a taxi, be aware of three types of drivers:
- Touts: These drivers will overcharge significantly. Avoid them by walking a short distance away from the immediate port area to find an honest cab.
- "Mechanics": Some drivers may have tampered with their meters.
- Honest Cabbies: The vast majority (>90%) of taxi drivers are honest, especially in southern China, as the government is cracking down on tourist mistreatment.
Important Taxi Rules:
- Always insist the driver turns on the meter. If they refuse, get out and find another taxi.
- Language Barrier: Taxi drivers in Haikou only speak Chinese. To communicate your destination, it is highly recommended to carry a map that includes both English and Chinese characters, so you can point.
- Guidebooks: If you use a guidebook, ensure it's the latest edition due to rapid construction and changes in the city.
Attractions and Activities
Haikou offers a mix of historical sites and natural attractions suitable for a day visit, all accessible by taxi from the port.
- Wugong Temple (The Five Official's Temple): A significant historical site honoring five officials banished to Hainan during the Tang and Song dynasties.
- Tomb of Hai Rui: The tomb of a celebrated Ming Dynasty official known for his integrity.
- Xiuying Emplacement: An ancient military fortress reflecting Haikou's strategic historical importance.
- Holiday Beach: Haikou's most popular bathing beach, offering a relaxed seaside experience.
- Xixiu Beach: Known as a training ground and competition venue for national sailing and windsurfing teams.
Dining
Restaurants are often found in clusters, easily recognizable by their colorful decorations. For an authentic experience, look for establishments patronized by local Chinese families. Many menus feature pictures of dishes, making ordering easier. Fresh seafood is a specialty, often kept alive in tanks. Eating out in China is generally a lively and somewhat noisy affair, with less emphasis on formal etiquette.
Shopping
Large shopping malls catering to Westerners are available, often the best place to find larger clothing sizes. Be aware that many items sold, particularly in informal settings, may be counterfeit, and bargaining is expected. A common bargaining tactic is to show the amount you are willing to pay in cash, then walk away; if they gesture you back, you can finalize the deal. Always remain courteous. Store opening hours are flexible; shops tend to stay open as long as there are customers.
Important Note: Only drink bottled water, and use it even for brushing your teeth. Exercise common precautions when eating out.
Safety
- Taxis: Be cautious of "touts" who will overcharge. Always ensure the taxi meter is on; if not, get out. The majority of drivers are honest, but vigilance is advised.
- Shopping: Be aware that many goods, especially in markets, are fake. Bargaining is expected and can be intense.
- Food & Drink: Drink only bottled water, and use it for brushing your teeth. Exercise general caution with street food and unfamiliar dining establishments.
- Currency: You might occasionally receive a small-denomination counterfeit bill. If this happens, there's little you can do; consider it a souvenir.
- Emergency Number: The emergency number in China is 110.
- Chinese New Year: If your visit coincides with Chinese New Year (a two-week period), be aware that transportation can be extremely hectic due to widespread travel.
Currency and Language
The local currency is the Yuan (also known as Renminbi, RMB).