Dongfang Travel Guide

Discover the culturally and naturally rich town of Dongfang in Hainan, China with our comprehensive travel guide. Explore must-visit attractions, outdoor adventures, hiking and biking routes, local cuisine, accommodations, culture and customs, safety and health information, transportation options, nearby destinations, and more.


Introduction to Dongfang

Dongfang is a small yet culturally and naturally rich town located in the southwestern part of Hainan province in China. The town is surrounded by lush green mountains, tropical forests, and crystal clear waters which make it a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The town has a rich history and culture which is reflected in its numerous museums, historical sites, and local customs. This comprehensive tour guide will help you discover the best places to visit, things to do, local cuisine, accommodations, safety and health information, transportation options, and nearby destinations in Dongfang.

List of Places to Visit in Dongfang

Dongfang offers a wide range of places to visit and explore, including culturally significant attractions, natural wonders, and adventure spots. Here’s a list of the top places you shouldn’t miss.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Hainan Dongfang Museum: Located in the center of Dongfang town, this museum showcases the rich cultural history of the town and its people. The museum has a large collection of ancient artifacts, traditional costumes, and crafts.
  2. Dongfang Juncheng Festival: Held every year from January 1-7, this festival celebrates the town’s military history and features traditional performances, parades, and cultural competitions.
  3. Xuwen Stele Forest Museum: This museum, located in Xuwen County, features over 300 stone steles from the Song, Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties.

Natural Attractions of Dongfang: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Bawangling National Forest Park: This park, located in the north of Dongfang, is home to the highest mountain in Hainan, Mount Limu. The park is a popular destination for hiking, camping, and wildlife watching.
  2. Yinggehai Mangrove Natural Reserve: This reserve, located in the southwest of Dongfang, is the largest mangrove forest in China. Visitors can take a boat tour and explore the diverse ecosystem and wildlife.
  3. Dongjiao Coconut Plantation: This plantation, located in the south of Dongfang, features over 500,000 coconut trees and offers a stunning view of the sea.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Dongfang

Dongfang offers several hiking and biking routes, ranging from easy to difficult, that offer a closer look at the town’s natural beauty. Here are some of the best routes to explore.

  1. Mount Limu Hiking Trail: This trail starts at the foot of Mount Limu and takes visitors through a dense forest, past waterfalls and streams, and up to the summit for breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
  2. Yinggehai Mangrove Biking Trail: This trail takes visitors through the mangrove forest and along the coast, offering stunning views of the sea and the forest.
  3. Dongjiao Coconut Plantation Walk: This easy walk takes visitors through the plantation, where they can learn about the cultivation of coconuts and enjoy the stunning views of the sea.

Best Things to Do in Dongfang: Activities and Tours

In addition to hiking and biking, Dongfang offers a wide range of activities and tours that visitors can enjoy. Here are some of the best things to do in Dongfang.

  1. Sea Kayaking: Visitors can rent a kayak and explore the pristine waters around Dongfang, enjoying the beautiful scenery and marine life.
  2. Surfing: Dongfang’s beaches offer some of the best surfing in Hainan, with waves ranging from beginner to advanced.
  3. Helicopter Tour: Visitors can take a helicopter tour of the town and the surrounding area, enjoying a unique perspective and stunning views.

Week-Long Itinerary for Dongfang

Here’s a week-long itinerary for exploring Dongfang and its surroundings.

Day Activity
Day 1 Arrive in Dongfang, explore the town and its cultural attractions like the Hainan Dongfang Museum
Day 2 Visit Bawangling National Forest Park and hike up Mount Limu
Day 3 Take a boat tour of Yinggehai Mangrove Natural Reserve
Day 4 Go surfing at one of Dongfang’s beaches
Day 5 Take a helicopter tour of Dongfang and its surroundings
Day 6 Enjoy a sea kayaking trip around Dongfang
Day 7 Visit the Dongjiao Coconut Plantation and enjoy the beach before leaving Dongfang

Food and Drink Scene of Dongfang

Dongfang’s food scene is rich and diverse, with a mix of local and international cuisine. Here’s what you should try.

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Dongfang Roasted Pork: This famous local dish is made from tender, juicy pork that is marinated in a special sauce and roasted until crispy on the outside.
  2. Wenchang Chicken: This dish is made from a special type of chicken that is only found in Wenchang, a nearby town. The chicken is poached and served with a variety of dipping sauces.
  3. Hainanese Rice Noodle: This dish features thin, chewy rice noodles that are served with sweet and savory toppings like shredded pork, soy sauce, and scallions.

Local Beverages

  1. Coconut Water: Dongfang is known for its coconut plantations, and visitors can enjoy fresh, sweet coconut water.
  2. Hainanese Coffee: This unique coffee features a blend of beans grown in Hainan and roasted in a traditional way.

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

Dongfang offers a range of accommodation options, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Here are some of the best places to stay.

  1. Dongfang International Hotel: This hotel offers comfortable rooms and a range of amenities like a restaurant, coffee shop, and outdoor pool.
  2. Tianya Guesthouse: This guesthouse is located in the heart of Dongfang and offers cozy rooms with a traditional Chinese decor.
  3. Fengjia Hostel: This hostel is located near the beach and offers affordable dormitory-style rooms and a relaxed atmosphere.

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

Dongfang is known for its local products and handicrafts, which make great souvenirs to bring home. Here are some of the best things to buy.

  1. Coconut Products: Dongfang’s coconut plantations produce a range of products like coconut oil, coconut candy, and coconut shell handicrafts.
  2. Wax Prints: These colorful textiles are made using a traditional wax-dyeing method and feature intricate patterns and designs.
  3. Dongfang Coffee: This locally grown and roasted coffee makes a unique and delicious souvenir.

Local Culture and Customs of Dongfang

Dongfang has a rich and unique culture, which is reflected in its customs and traditions. Here are some things to keep in mind.

  1. Respect for Elders: Elders are highly respected in Dongfang, and visitors should show them proper respect.
  2. Dragon Boat Festival: This festival, held in June every year, is an important cultural event in Dongfeng and features dragon boat races, traditional food, and performances.
  3. Maxiangxiang Dance: This traditional dance is performed at weddings and other celebrations and features intricate movements and colorful costumes.

Best Time to Visit Dongfang

The best time to visit Dongfang is from November to April when the weather is cool and dry, making it perfect for hiking and outdoor activities. The wet season runs from May to October, with the most rainfall in August and September.

Do’s and Don’ts of Dongfang

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Dongfang:

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Try the local food and drink.
  • Be prepared for outdoor activities.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the environment.
  • Disrespect elders or other people.
  • Ignore safety precautions when participating in outdoor activities.

Safety and Health

Here’s some important safety and health information for visitors to Dongfang.

Safety in Dongfang

  • Be aware of the weather conditions when participating in outdoor activities.
  • Always wear a helmet when biking or motorcycling.
  • Use caution when swimming in the ocean and make sure to follow safety guidelines.

Health in Dongfang

  • Make sure to drink only bottled water.
  • Use insect repellent to protect against mosquito-borne diseases like dengue fever and Zika virus.
  • Seek medical attention if you feel ill or have any health concerns.

Getting to Dongfang: Transportation Options and Logistics

Dongfang is accessible by several transportation options, including air travel, bus, and taxi.

Airports Near Dongfang

The nearest airport to Dongfang is Haikou Meilan International Airport, which is approximately 240 km away.

Bus Stations Near Dongfang

Dongfang Bus Station is located in the town center and offers buses to nearby destinations.

Other Options

Visitors can also take a taxi or rent a car to travel around Dongfang and its surroundings.

How to Get Around in Dongfang

Visitors can get around Dongfang by taxi, bus, or bike. Taxis are the most convenient option for short distances, while buses are a more affordable option for longer routes. Bikes can be rented for those who want to explore the town and the surrounding area at their own pace.

Where to Go Next from Dongfang: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Dongfang is located in a beautiful part of Hainan province, and there are several nearby destinations and excursions that visitors can explore.

  1. Wuzhishan National Forest Park: Located approximately 120 km from Dongfang, this park features stunning waterfalls, forests, and hiking trails.
  2. Sanya: Located approximately 330 km from Dongfang, Sanya is a popular beach destination in China, featuring pristine beaches, luxury resorts, and a vibrant nightlife.
  3. Qionghai: Located approximately 200 km from Dongfang, Qionghai is a town famous for its hot springs, beautiful scenery, and delicious seafood.

Conclusion

Dongfang is a beautiful and culturally rich town in Hainan province, offering a wide range of things to do and explore. From hiking and biking to local cuisine and cultural attractions, visitors can get a true taste of what this part of China has to offer. With this comprehensive tour guide, you can plan your trip and make the most of your time in Dongfang.

Monument to labourers who died in Basuo during the Japanese occupation of Hainan Monument to labourers who died in Basuo during the Japanese occupation of Hainan