Should I visit Haikou?

Question

I have a long weekend to play with, flights to Haikou are cheap, I have a passport that is in the visa-free list for China. Probably can stay 3 full days there. Is it a nice place* to visit? I am confused by various opinions on the internet...

*This goes down to personal preference, so... I like to walk around places, taking in the atmosphere, taking pictures. Visiting attractions of course - historical sites, temples, maybe museums. I don't particularly care for beaches but a couple of hours walking on a beach + a little bit of sitting around, why not (like I don't seek out beach holidays, but if the place I am visiting has a beach, then I'll have look). Oh and parks, always nice. And of course, food!

Will be solo-travelling (female, not so young, travel solo quite a bit). I don't speak or read Chinese but I survived on my own in other places in China for short visits. Can't say it was always easy and might have missed out on a lot with my cluelessness, but I had a good time.

So yeah... based on the above, would you recommend Haikou to me?

Answer

Haikou, the capital of Hainan province, can be an interesting destination for a 3-day solo trip, especially if you enjoy exploring urban areas, historical sites, local culture, and food. While it is not as famous internationally as some other Chinese cities, it has its own unique charm and can be quite enjoyable for short visits.

Here’s what you can expect and do based on your interests:

Historic and cultural sites: Haikou has several notable sites such as the Qilou Old Street with colonial-era architecture, the Temple of the Five Lords, and Haikou Arcade-House streets. These areas are great for walking, photography, and soaking in local atmosphere.
Parks and public spaces: The city has several pleasant parks, including People’s Park and Evergreen Park, which are suitable for strolling and observing local life.
Beaches: While you are not seeking a beach holiday, Haikou’s Holiday Beach or nearby beaches offer opportunities for a relaxed stroll or short sitting time. You don’t need to plan a full beach day unless you wish.
Museums and temples: The Hainan Museum and Haikou Volcanic Cluster Global Geopark offer insights into local history, culture, and natural heritage.
Food and local life: Haikou has a vibrant street food scene and local restaurants. You can explore night markets for Hainanese specialties such as Wenchang chicken, Hainanese rice noodles, and fresh tropical fruits.

Practical tips for solo travelers:

English signage is limited, so having a translation app is helpful. However, local people are generally friendly and willing to help.
Walking around is doable in central Haikou, but for sites farther out, taxis or ride-hailing apps (like Didi) are convenient.
Three days is sufficient to cover the main attractions, enjoy the city vibe, try local foods, and take some leisurely walks along the streets and beaches.
Safety: Haikou is generally safe for solo female travelers, especially in daylight and tourist areas.

In summary, Haikou is a worthwhile short trip for someone who enjoys walking, photography, cultural sites, parks, and good local food. It’s not a bustling international metropolis, but its charm lies in its relaxed pace, colonial architecture, local cuisine, and coastal atmosphere. For a 3-day solo adventure, it should provide a pleasant and manageable experience.

Should I visit Haikou?

More Haikou Travel Questions

The attractions mentioned in this question

Popular Destinations

Popular Travel Questions