Chengmai Travel Guide

Discover the culturally rich and naturally diverse Chengmai in China with our comprehensive travel guide, featuring top tourist attractions, hiking and biking routes, food and drink scene, local customs, safety and health tips, and transportation options.


Introduction to Chengmai

Chengmai is a district in Hainan, located in the southern part of China. It is surrounded by lush, green mountains and crystal-clear waters, with a rich culture and heritage dating back over a thousand years. With a perfect blend of historical and natural attractions, Chengmai offers a unique experience to any type of traveler.

List of Places to Visit in Chengmai

Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Chengmai:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Hainan Museum: exhibits over 60,000 artifacts showcasing Hainan’s history, art, and culture.
  • Temple of the Five Lords: a sacred temple with a history dating back over 1,200 years, dedicated to the five local deities.
  • Chengmai County Historical Museum: showcases local history, culture, and some rare ancient artifacts.

Natural Attractions of Chengmai: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Wuzhi Mountain: the highest mountain in Hainan, offering a challenging yet rewarding hike with stunning views.
  • Lingshui Bay: a scenic spot with crystal-clear waters, sandy beaches, and coconut trees.
  • Nanbin Beach: a lesser-known beach, but with equally breathtaking views and tranquility.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Chengmai

Chengmai offers some of the best hiking and biking routes in Hainan, with diverse landscapes and natural scenery. Here are some of the best routes:

  • Wuzhi Mountain hiking trail: the trail is moderately challenging, but the view at the peak of the mountain is worth it.
  • Coastal biking route: a scenic route along the Lingshui Bay, with panoramic ocean views and refreshing sea breeze.
  • Fengchi Ravine hiking trail: a challenging but rewarding hiking trail through lush jungle, hidden waterfalls and serene streams.

Best Things to Do in Chengmai: Activities and Tours

  • Water sports: try windsurfing, snorkeling, diving, and other water sports at Lingshui Bay or Sanya Bay.
  • Tea picking experience: learn the art of tea picking and taste some of the freshest tea in China at a local tea plantation.
  • Cultural immersion: take part in traditional folk activities, such as lion dance, silk weaving, and paper cutting, to experience the local culture.

Week-Long Itinerary for Chengmai

Day 1-2: Explore historical sites, such as the Temple of the Five Lords and Chengmai County Historical Museum.

Day 3-4: Hike in the Wuzhi Mountain area and visit Nanbin Beach for a relaxing day.

Day 5-6: Take part in water sports at Lingshui Bay and check out local tea plantations for a tea picking experience.

Day 7: Enjoy local delicacies and shop for souvenirs at the Chengmai County Market.

Food and Drink Scene of Chengmai

Chengmai has a rich food culture, influenced by the local Hainanese cuisine and other regional Chinese dishes. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Hainanese chicken rice: fragrant rice cooked with chicken broth and served with tender, juicy chicken pieces.
  • Wenchang chicken: a local delicacy, consisting of steamed, succulent chicken and special dipping sauces.
  • Hainanese coconut soup: a refreshing and nourishing soup made with fresh coconut water, meat, and seafood.

Local Beverages

  • Coconut juice: a refreshing, non-alcoholic drink made from fresh coconut water.
  • Hainanese coffee: locally produced coffee beans, roasted to perfection, and served with sweet condensed milk.
  • Hainanese alcoholic beverages: try local rice wine, plum wine, or coconut liquor for a unique drinking experience.

Where to Stay in Chengmai: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Chengmai offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels. Here are some top picks:

  • Anantara Sanya Resort: a high-end resort with a private beach, pool, and world-class spa facilities.
  • Chengmai Huayuan Lijing Hotel: a budget-friendly hotel with comfortable rooms and easy access to local attractions.
  • Lihu Park Hotel: a mid-range hotel with excellent service, spacious rooms, and a garden view.

What to Buy in Chengmai: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Chengmai has a rich culture and heritage, and there are many unique souvenirs and local products worth bringing home. Here are some top picks:

  • Grass weaving products: handcrafted baskets, hats, and other items woven from local grass.
  • Hainanese coffee beans: locally produced coffee beans, roasted and ground to perfection.
  • Seafood snacks: dried seafood snacks, such as squid, shrimp, and fish, make for tasty and unique souvenirs.

Local Culture and Customs of Chengmai

Chengmai has a unique culture and history dating back over a thousand years. Here are some things to keep in mind when visiting:

  • Be respectful of local customs and traditions, such as offering incense at temples and greeting the elders.
  • Dress modestly when visiting religious sites, and remove your shoes when entering temples.
  • Avoid discussing sensitive political topics or breaking any Chinese laws.

Best Time to Visit Chengmai

The best time to visit Chengmai is from November to March when the weather is mild and pleasant. However, it is also the peak tourist season, so expect crowds and higher prices. April to October is an excellent time for outdoor activities, but the weather can be hot and humid.

Do’s and Don’ts of Chengmai

Do:

  • Try local food and beverages
  • Respect local customs and traditions
  • Carry cash, as some vendors do not accept credit cards

Don’t:

  • Take photographs of military installations or sensitive government buildings
  • Drink tap water without boiling it first
  • Engage in illegal activities, such as gambling or prostitution

Safety and Health

Safety in Chengmai

Chengmai is a relatively safe district, with low crime rates. However, be cautious of pickpockets and follow basic safety precautions, such as not leaving valuables unattended and being aware of your surroundings.

Health in Chengmai

Chengmai has excellent medical facilities in case of emergencies, but it is always advisable to have travel insurance. It is also recommended to get a typhoid and hepatitis A vaccination before traveling to China.

Getting to Chengmai: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Chengmai

  • Haikou Meilan International Airport: the closest airport to Chengmai, located about 74 km away.

Bus Stations Near Chengmai

  • Chengmai Bus Station: offers intercity bus services to other parts of Hainan and some major cities in China.

Other Options

  • Renting a car: self-driving is a convenient and flexible option, but be aware of Chinese traffic rules and regulations.
  • Taking a taxi: a more expensive option, but offers more privacy and comfort.

How to Get Around in Chengmai

Chengmai offers many transportation options for visitors, including taxis, buses, and private tours. However, the best way to explore the district’s natural beauty is by renting a scooter or bicycle.

Where to Go Next from Chengmai: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Chengmai is an excellent base to explore other parts of Hainan or even the neighboring city of Haikou. Here are some nearby destinations worth visiting:

  • Haikou: the capital of Hainan, known for its rich history and culture, and many tourist attractions.
  • Sanya: a popular beach destination in Hainan, with picturesque beaches, crystal clear waters, and luxurious resorts.
  • Wuzhishan: a mountainous region, known for its stunning natural scenery and diverse indigenous culture.

Conclusion

Chengmai is a hidden gem in Hainan, worth exploring for its natural beauty, rich history, and unique culture. From hiking trails and water sports to food and drink scene and local customs, there is something for everyone in Chengmai. Plan your visit and discover the best of what this district has to offer.