Dingan

Close to Haikou, Ding'an is a historic town well suited to a leisurely 2–3-day visit. Its attractions range from Taoist culture and volcanic cold springs to local food known as “dancing beef.” Overall costs are also lower than in Sanya.

• Wenbi Peak: A sacred site of the Southern School of Taoism, with an extensive complex of buildings. Climb to the summit for panoramic views of Nanli Lake, pray for blessings, or take photos with a traditional backdrop.

• Nanli Lake: The largest freshwater lake in northern Hainan, Nanli Lake is free to visit. Cycle along the shore, picnic in the wetland park, or head to the dam to watch the sunset.

• Jiuwentang Cold Springs: The spring water rises from beneath volcanic rock and stays at 23°C year-round. Entry is free. Soak your feet, try a natural fish spa, or cool your own watermelon and drinks in the spring water.

• Ding'an Ancient Town: Ming- and Qing-era town walls and Southeast Asian-style arcaded buildings shape the old town's streetscape. After visiting the old county government office ruins, stroll along stone-paved streets, try a bowl of local noodle soup, and enjoy the everyday life of the lanes.

• Hainan Tropical Bird World: One of China's larger bird-themed parks, where you can watch peacocks display their feathers and interact with parrots. A good option for families with children.

• Asia's King Banyan: This thousand-year-old banyan forms a forest from a single tree. Its enormous canopy is an impressive sight and a good photography subject.

Local Specialties and Dining Options

Suggested 3-Day, 2-Night Itinerary

• Day 1: Climb Wenbi Peak and Try Xiangou Beef
  • Morning: Set out from Haikou by car or high-speed rail; the original itinerary gives a travel time of about 40 minutes. Climb Wenbi Peak to pray for blessings and enjoy panoramic views of Nanli Lake.

• Afternoon: Leave Wenbi Peak for Ding'an Ancient Town. Walk along Ximen Old Street and visit the old county government office ruins to learn about the town's Ming and Qing history and everyday street life.

• Evening: Visit Xiangou Beef Street to buy freshly slaughtered “dancing beef,” then have a restaurant prepare it for you. Try both hot pot and grilled versions. Expect to pay about RMB 50–60 per person for generous portions.

• Day 2: Relax at Nanli Lake and Cool Off in the Cold Springs
  • Morning: Visit Nanli Lake Wetland Park. Cycle around the lake or try paddleboarding, enjoying the breeze and surrounding scenery.

• Afternoon: Drive to Jiuwentang Cold Springs to escape the afternoon heat. Soak your feet, splash in the volcanic cold springs, and try a natural fish spa.

• Evening: Return to the county town and browse the night market. Try Ding'an stir-fried rice noodles for dinner, followed by qingbuliang chilled dessert and other local snacks.

• Day 3: See the Ancient Banyan and Prepare to Head Home
  • Morning: Visit Asia's King Banyan to see a thousand-year-old tree that forms a forest on its own. Alternatively, visit Murui Mountain Memorial Park to learn about the area's revolutionary history.
  • Midday: Shop at the county town's farmers' market for Ding'an black pork zongzi and selenium-rich rice to take home. For lunch, try local dressed rice noodles.

• Afternoon: Finish sightseeing and leave plenty of time for your return journey.

Accommodation and Transport

• Transport: Ding'an has no airport or railway station. You can fly into Haikou Meilan Airport, then rent a car for the roughly one-hour drive. The original itinerary also lists long-distance buses and high-speed rail as travel options. Attractions within the county are spread out, so driving or renting an electric scooter is more convenient. Electric scooter rental costs about RMB 40 per day.
• Accommodation: For a budget stay, consider economy hotels in Ding'an's county town, with rates starting at RMB 80. For lake views, look at guesthouses around Nanli Lake. If Wenbi Peak is your main destination, consider Jushanguan Guesthouse near the scenic area. It has quiet surroundings, and stays often include admission tickets.

Practical Travel Tips

• Xiangou beef: Plan to buy after 5 p.m., when more meat stalls are open and the beef is fresh. Nearby restaurants that cook your purchases also begin opening around this time.
• Ding'an zongzi: The county town's farmers' market and long-established zongzi shops offer better prices than stalls at scenic-area entrances. Vacuum packing and shipping are also available.
• Cold spring essentials: Bring slippers, a towel, and a change of clothes for Jiuwentang Cold Springs. You can also bring drinks to chill in the spring water.
• Sun and mosquito protection: Hainan has strong UV exposure, and mosquitoes are common around the lake and cold springs. Pack sunscreen, insect repellent, and a light jacket.