Explore Haikou (海口) : One of the southern most coastal cities in China

Haikou is an island city located on Hainan Island, at the southernmost tip of China. It is also the capital of Hainan Province.

Looking back through history, Haikou was already an important international trading port during the Song Dynasty and served as one of the key stops along the Maritime Silk Road. Thanks to its strategic location, the city has remained a thriving port for more than a thousand years and continues to be one of Hainan's most important gateways to the outside world.

Its favorable position also made Haikou one of the main departure points for Chinese migrants heading to Southeast Asia, a journey commonly known as "going to Nanyang." At the same time, it became one of the places where wealth, culture, and ideas from overseas Chinese communities flowed back into China.

Many overseas Chinese who found success in Southeast Asia returned home and blended Nanyang architectural styles with local traditions, creating many of the distinctive buildings that can still be seen today. They also brought back elements of everyday life from Southeast Asia. The relaxed atmosphere and open-minded way of living that came with the Nanyang experience gradually became part of Haikou's identity. The city's famous Qilou Old Street and its unique Laoba Tea culture are among the most recognizable examples of this legacy.

Haikou is a city with a laid-back rhythm that makes it easy to settle into local life. You can spend an afternoon enjoying Laoba Tea in a small alleyway café, sample local snacks at a night market, stop by a neighborhood restaurant for Hainan chicken rice, try a cup of Hainan's well-known Xinglong coffee, pick up fresh tropical fruit from a roadside stall, or simply watch the sunset by the sea. However you choose to spend your time, Haikou offers a glimpse into a slower and more easygoing side of life.

Destination Insights

Haikou has a tropical island climate with hot, humid conditions and rapidly changing weather. It is a good idea to bring sun protection, insect repellent, and an umbrella.

Haikou is one of China's most popular tourist destinations. If possible, avoid visiting during major Chinese holidays such as Chinese New Year and National Day, when visitor numbers are at their highest.

When shopping for local products or souvenirs, be sure to confirm the price before making a purchase.

Information

Landmarks

Qilou Old Street

Centers

Qilou Old Street — The Historical and Cultural Center
Guomao District — The Modern Commercial Center

Cost of Living

¥¥¥¥¥¥

Airports

Haikou Meilan International Airport (HAK)

Train Stations

Haikou Station (海口站)
Haikou Dong(East) Station (海口东站)
Haikou Meilan Station (海口美兰站)

Public Transportations

Bus
Suburban Train

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Haikou is from November to April, when the weather is generally dry, sunny, and pleasantly warm. Many people from northern China travel to Hainan during this period to escape the winter cold, making it the peak tourist season in Haikou. As a result, visitor numbers are usually higher.
June to September is the peak typhoon season. Typhoons, heavy rain, and other weather-related disruptions may affect travel plans.
The Chinese New Year holiday is the peak tourist season in Hainan, so it is advisable to be cautious about traveling there during this period.

Location

Hainan Island is China's second-largest island, surpassed only by Taiwan Island. Haikou is located in the northern part of Hainan and enjoys a tropical monsoon climate. With average temperatures above 20°C throughout the year, the city stays warm and comfortable, making it a pleasant place to live. As the capital of Hainan Province, Haikou serves as the island's main transportation hub. Whether by air, sea, or cargo transport, getting in and out of the city is convenient. Its strategic location also makes it one of the key gateways connecting Hainan with the rest of China and overseas destinations.