Wuzhishan Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and local culture of Wuzhishan in Hainan, China. Plan your perfect trip with this comprehensive guide.


Introduction to Wuzhishan

Wuzhishan is a mountainous county located in the center of Hainan, a tropical island province in southern China. With the Wuzhi Mountain range running through the county, Wuzhishan boasts an abundance of natural wonders, including lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and stunning vistas of the surrounding landscape. In addition to its natural beauty, Wuzhishan is also home to numerous cultural and historical sites, making it a destination that offers both adventure and cultural experiences.

List of Places to Visit in Wuzhishan

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Wuzhishan Museum - A museum located in the heart of Wuzhishan that showcases the county’s rich history and culture, including exhibits on the Li and Miao ethnic groups who call Wuzhishan home.
  • Yumao Ancient City - An ancient city dating back to the Tang Dynasty, with well-preserved ruins that allow visitors to experience life over 1,000 years ago.
  • Wuzhishan Tianchi - A stunning lake nestled in the mountains that is considered to be one of the most beautiful and sacred places in Wuzhishan.

Natural Attractions of Wuzhishan: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Wuzhishan National Forest Park - A large park located in the Wuzhi Mountain range, offering beautiful views of the surrounding landscape and various hiking trails of varying difficulties.
  • Nanshan Tropical Botanical Garden - A botanical garden that showcases the unique flora and fauna of Hainan Island, including beautiful orchids, towering palm trees, and vibrant tropical birds.
  • Baoting Li & Miao Ethnic Minority Park - A cultural and scenic park that showcases the traditions and lifestyles of the Li and Miao ethnic groups, with various performances, exhibits, and activities available.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Wuzhishan

Wuzhishan is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with numerous hiking and biking trails available. Some of the most popular routes include:

  • Wuzhishan National Forest Park - The park offers several hiking trails ranging from easy to difficult, including a challenging hike to the summit of Wuzhi Mountain.
  • Jianfengling National Forest Park - A nearby park that offers a wide range of hiking and biking trails that wind through stunning forests and mountains.
  • Hou’an Ridge - A popular hiking trail that offers stunning views of Wuzhi Mountain, as well as the surrounding landscape.

Best Things to Do in Wuzhishan: Activities and Tours

  • Hot Springs Tour - Wuzhishan is known for its many hot springs, with various tour companies offering guided trips to some of the best hot springs in the area.
  • Li and Miao Culture Tour - Experience the unique cultures and traditions of the Li and Miao ethnic groups with a guided tour that includes visits to cultural sites, performances, and more.
  • Mountain Biking Adventure - Explore the stunning landscapes of Wuzhishan on two wheels with a guided mountain biking tour, offering thrilling descents and challenging climbs.

Week-Long Itinerary for Wuzhishan

Day Activities
1 Visit Wuzhishan Museum, Yumao Ancient City, and Wuzhishan Tianchi
2 Hike in Wuzhishan National Forest Park or visit Nanshan Tropical Botanical Garden
3 Visit Baoting Li & Miao Ethnic Minority Park for cultural experiences
4 Take a hot springs tour or relax at a local spa
5 Explore the mountain biking trails of Wuzhishan
6 Visit Jianfengling National Forest Park for more hiking and outdoor adventures
7 Souvenir shopping and local cuisine sampling

Food and Drink Scene of Wuzhishan

Must-Try Dishes

  • Wuzhishan Roast Pork - A local specialty that is succulent and tender, with a crispy skin and a unique flavor that is sure to please.
  • Hainanese Chicken Rice - A classic Hainanese dish that is popular all over the island, featuring a succulent chicken accompanied by fragrant rice cooked in chicken broth.
  • Braised Beef in Soy Sauce - A hearty and satisfying dish that is slow-cooked to perfection, with tender beef that practically melts in your mouth.

Local Beverages

  • Wuzhishan Coffee - Wuzhishan is known for its high-quality coffee beans, grown in the rich volcanic soils of the area.
  • Coconut Water - Hainan is famous for its sweet, refreshing coconut water, which is available all over Wuzhishan.
  • Lantern Festival Rice Wine - A traditional rice wine that is only brewed during the Lantern Festival, a major cultural festival in Wuzhishan.

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

  • Wuzhi Mountain Hotel - A luxury hotel located at the foot of Wuzhi Mountain, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape and easy access to the mountain trails.
  • Lao You Ju Hostel - A cozy and welcoming hostel located in the heart of Wuzhishan, offering budget-friendly accommodations and a warm atmosphere.
  • Happiness Guesthouse - A charming guesthouse located in a peaceful village outside of Wuzhishan, offering comfortable rooms and a lovely garden space.

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

  • Coffee Beans - Wuzhishan coffee is a must-try for coffee lovers, and the beans are widely available for purchase throughout the county.
  • Li & Miao Embroidery - The Li and Miao ethnic groups are known for their stunning embroidery work, which can be purchased as wall hangings, clothing, and more.
  • Jade and Pearl Jewelry - Hainan is famous for its high-quality jade and pearls, and there are many stores and markets throughout Wuzhishan where you can purchase these beautiful gems.

Local Culture and Customs of Wuzhishan

The Li and Miao ethnic groups make up a significant portion of the population in Wuzhishan, and their unique cultures and traditions are an integral part of life in the county. Visitors can experience traditional dance and music performances, try local dishes, and learn more about the customs and beliefs of the local people.

Best Time to Visit Wuzhishan

The best time to visit Wuzhishan is from November to April, when the weather is mild and comfortable. The summer months can be hot and rainy, and the mountain trails can be slippery and difficult to navigate during this time.

Do’s and Don’ts of Wuzhishan

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs, particularly when visiting cultural and religious sites.
  • Try the local cuisine, which is known for its unique and delicious flavors.
  • Bring appropriate clothing and gear for outdoor adventures, including hiking boots, sunscreen, and insect repellant.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the natural environment, including the mountain trails and hot springs.
  • Be disrespectful or disruptive during performances, ceremonies, or other cultural events.
  • Take photographs of people, places, or things without permission.

Safety and Health

Safety in Wuzhishan

Wuzhishan is a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and friendly locals. However, visitors should take precautions when hiking or engaging in other outdoor activities, including bringing appropriate gear and sticking to marked trails.

Health in Wuzhishan

Wuzhishan has modern medical facilities and pharmacies, and visitors can easily find medical assistance if needed. However, it is still advisable to take precautions such as drinking bottled water, washing hands frequently, and wearing insect repellant to prevent illnesses.

Getting to Wuzhishan: Transportation Options and Logistics

Wuzhishan is easily accessible by both air and land, with several transportation options available depending on your starting point.

Airports Near Wuzhishan

The nearest airport is Haikou Meilan International Airport, which is located approximately 130 kilometers from Wuzhishan.

Bus Stations Near Wuzhishan

Several bus stations in Hainan offer transportation to Wuzhishan, including Haikou Bus Station and Sanya Bus Station.

Other Options

Taxis, private cars, and tour buses are also available as transportation options, particularly for travelers coming from nearby cities or towns.

How to Get Around in Wuzhishan

The most convenient way to get around Wuzhishan is by taxi or private car, particularly for travelers who want to access more remote destinations or explore the mountain trails. Bicycle rentals and walking are also viable options for sightseeing in more urban areas.

Where to Go Next from Wuzhishan: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Sanya - A popular tourist destination known for its pristine beaches, stunning coral reefs, and tropical climate, located approximately 80 kilometers from Wuzhishan.
  • Haikou - The capital of Hainan, offering a mix of modern city life and cultural attractions, located approximately 120 kilometers from Wuzhishan.
  • Yalong Bay National Resort District - A luxurious resort district located on the southern coast of Hainan, offering stunning beaches, high-end hotels, and upscale dining and shopping options.

Conclusion

Wuzhishan is a hidden gem in Hainan, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re looking to hike the mountain trails, sample the local cuisine, or immerse yourself in the rich cultures of the local ethnic groups, Wuzhishan has something for everyone. With this comprehensive guide, you can plan the perfect trip to Wuzhishan and make memories that will last a lifetime.

Taiping Falls Taiping Falls Wuzhi Mountain Wuzhi Mountain