China's 240-hour visa-free transit policy invites international travelers to experience Hainan Island — a sun-drenched paradise of turquoise waters, lush rainforests, and a vibrant blend of Chinese and Southeast Asian cultures.

From Shanghai, embark on a 7–10 day journey where luxury resorts meet untouched nature, and every meal is a celebration of tropical abundance.

From Shanghai to Hainan

By Air

Fly direct from Shanghai to Haikou or Sanya in 3–3.5 hours. Airlines like China Eastern, Hainan Airlines, and Spring Airlines offer daily flights. Upon arrival, use Hainan's efficient shuttle buses or pre-booked private vehicles to reach coastal resorts.

By High-Speed Rail (Island Exploration)

While there's no direct high-speed rail from Shanghai to Hainan, the Hainan Eastern Ring Railway and Western Ring Railway (both operating on the island) let you hop between cities on the island at speeds of up to 250 km/h after arrival. For example:

• Haikou → Sanya: 1.5–2 hours via the eastern line, passing coconut plantations and beach vistas.
• Sanya → Wanning: Takes 40 minutes. Wanning is home to Sun Moon Bay, a surfer's paradise.

Hainan's Unmissable Treasures

Natural Wonders

Yalong Bay (Sanya): Dive into crystal-clear waters or unwind at ultra-luxurious resorts like Atlantis Sanya, where underwater suites overlook a giant aquarium.

Jianfengling National Forest Park: Explore this UNESCO-listed biodiversity hotspot, where you can trek through lush rainforests in search of rare Hainan gibbons and cool off with a refreshing swim beneath waterfall pools.

Wuzhizhou Island: Snorkel amid coral reefs or try parasailing at this marine playground dubbed "China's Maldives".

Cultural & Historical Gems

Nanshan Cultural Tourism Zone: Stand before the 108-meter Guanyin of the South Sea statue, where Buddhist spirituality meets ocean panoramas.

Binglanggu Li and Miao Cultural Heritage Park: Witness traditional brocade weaving, bamboo dances, and the ancient facial tattooing customs of Hainan's indigenous communities.

Haikou Qilou Old Streets: Stroll through arcaded buildings in Haikou's historic district, now housing indie cafes and galleries.

Hidden Gems

Dongjiao Coconut Plantation (Wenchang): Bike through 500,000 coconut trees and learn to crack fresh coconuts with locals.

Haikou Volcanic Cluster Global Geopark: Discover unique geological wonders, including lava tunnels and basalt terraces, and experience the rich volcanic culture at Haikou Volcanic Cluster Global Geopark.

Hainan Cuisine: A Tropical Feast

Must-Try Dishes

Hainan Chicken Rice: Poached chicken sliced into tender pieces, served with fragrant, flavorful rice cooked in chicken broth. Paired with a spicy chili sauce and fresh cucumber slices for a refreshing contrast.

Hele Crab: Stir-fried mud crabs in ginger and scallions, a specialty of Hele Town near Wanning.

Wenchang Chicken: Free-range chicken roasted in coconut sauce, paired with Hainan yellow lantern chili dip.

Jiaji Duck: A plump and tender duck with smooth white skin, typically boiled and served with a dipping sauce made from vinegar, chopped ginger, and sesame oil.

Qingbuliang (Cooling Dessert): A sweet mix of coconut milk, red beans, and tropical fruits, perfect for beachside refreshment.

Cultural Dining Experiences

Seafood Night Market (Sanya First Market): Pick live lobsters, sea urchins, and mantis shrimp from stalls, then have them cooked to order.

Lingshui Li Ethnic Banquet: Feast on bamboo-tube rice, wild herbal soups, and roasted suckling pig while listening to folk songs.

 

Immersive Cultural Adventures

Traditional Fishing with Tanka People (Sanya): Join the "sea nomads" on wooden sampans, as they cast nets at dawn and grill catches onboard.

Betel Nut Artistry: Learn to fold betel leaves into intricate gift pouches at Binglanggu Village.

Island Tea Ceremony: Sip Baisha green tea in a rainforest pavilion, paired with stories of Hainan's 1,000-year tea trade.

Visa-Free Travel Essentials

• Best Time to Visit: November–March, perfect seaside weather.
• Entry/Exit Points: Enter or exit via Haikou Meilan International Airport or Sanya Phoenix International Airport.
• Local Transport: Rent electric bicycles or cars to explore coastal roads freely.