Tianya Haijiao
Tianya Haijiao, meaning "the edges of heaven and the corners of the sea," is China’s iconic romantic landmark located on Sanya’s western coast. Revered as the "southernmost tip of China," it features colossal granite boulders inscribed with phrases like "Tianya" (Heaven’s Edge) and "Haijiao" (Sea’s Corner), carved during the Qing Dynasty. Designated a National AAAAA Tourist Attraction in 2001, it blends coastal beauty with cultural symbolism, drawing visitors to its turquoise waves, sunset vistas, and legendary love stories.
Historical Overview
First documented in the Records of the Grand Historian (1st century BCE), the site gained fame during the Qing Dynasty when Emperor Qianlong inscribed "Tianya" on its rocks in 1772. It became a pilgrimage spot for scholars banished to the "wild south" and a symbol of enduring love after the tale of a couple who leaped into the sea rather than be separated. Modern development began in 1961, with infrastructure upgrades in the 1990s transforming it into Hainan’s top tourist destination.
Structural Layout
The park spans 10.4 square kilometers across four zones:
Coastal Zone: The "Tianya" and "Haijiao" rocks, the "Nantian Yizhu" (Pillar to Heaven) boulder, and the "Love Sculpture" (a 10-meter-tall intertwined steel structure).
Central Square: The "Heavenly Sentinel Rock" (a 7-meter-tall stone with a dragon carving) and the "Marriage Registry Office" for wedding ceremonies.
Tropical Garden: A 20-acre botanical area with coconut groves, orchids, and a lotus pond.
Cultural Pavilion: Exhibits on Hainan’s Li and Miao minorities and the site’s literary history.
Major Attractions
Tianya & Haijiao Rocks: Qing-era inscriptions on 15-meter-tall boulders, framed by crashing waves.
Nantian Yizhu: A needle-like stone pillar rising 15 meters from the sea.
Love Sculpture: A modern landmark symbolizing eternal love, popular for proposals.
Historical Gallery: Calligraphy by scholars like Guo Moruo and Mao Zedong praising the site.
Sunset Platform: A curved deck offering golden-hour views over the South China Sea.
Cruise Terminal: Glass-bottom boats to nearby reefs and floating restaurants.
Suggested Itineraries
- Classic Route (2–3 Hours):
Entrance → Tianya Rock → Haijiao Rock → Central Square → Sunset Platform → Exit.
Highlights: Iconic rocks and coastal vistas.
- Extended Route (4–5 Hours):
Entrance → Tropical Garden → Cultural Pavilion → Marriage Registry → Cruise Terminal → Love Sculpture.
Highlights: Cultural exhibits and leisure cruises.
- Romantic Route (Full Day):
Morning: Couples’ photoshoot at the Love Sculpture and rock formations.
Afternoon: Private yacht cruise to remote coves.
Evening: Sunset ceremony at the platform with live harp music.
Highlights: Intimate experiences and celestial vows.
Ticket Purchase
Online: Book via 携程 (Ctrip) or 美团 (Meituan) up to 7 days in advance.
On-Site: Tickets at the entrance; queues longest 9–11 AM.
- Prices:
Peak Season (October–March): ¥105 (adults), ¥50 (students/seniors).
Off-Season: ¥80 (adults), ¥40 (students/seniors).
Cruise Add-On: ¥150 (90-minute reef tour).
Transportation
Bus: Routes 6, 16, or 25 to Tianya Haijiao Station (¥3, 45 minutes from downtown Sanya).
Taxi: Direct from Sanya Bay (¥40, 30 minutes) or Yalong Bay (¥80, 45 minutes).
Shuttle: Free resort buses from Sanya’s Dadonghai and Haitang Bay areas.
Bike Rental: ¥50/day (electric bikes prohibited in park).
Best Time & Tips
Peak Seasons: November–February (dry, cool weather); avoid Chinese New Year.
Avoid Crowds: Visit weekdays; weekends draw 25,000+ visitors.
- Essentials:
Sunscreen, hat, and reusable water bottle (limited shade).
Waterproof bag for cameras (spray from waves).
Cash for cruise tickets (some vendors lack card readers).
Prohibited: Littering, climbing on rocks, and swimming outside designated zones.
FAQ
How long does it usually take to visit Tianya Haijiao?
It usually takes about 2 to 3 hours to visit the main attractions in the scenic area at a leisurely pace. Of course, if you want to take more time to enjoy the scenery, take pictures or have a rest, you can stay longer.
How can I get to the Tianya Haijiao scenic area from downtown Sanya?
You can take bus No. 25 or 26, which directly leads to the Tianya Haijiao scenic area. You can also choose to take a taxi or use ride-hailing apps, which is more convenient and can take you directly to the entrance of the scenic area.
What delicious food can be tasted in the Tianya Haijiao scenic area?
You can taste local Hainanese specialties such as Hainanese chicken rice, seafood noodles, and fresh grilled seafood. There are also some small stalls selling tropical fruits, which are sweet and juicy, allowing you to enjoy the unique flavor of Hainan while visiting the scenic area.
What water activities are suitable to do in Tianya Haijiao?
You can do some mild water activities like beach volleyball, wading in the shallow sea, and taking a banana boat ride. If you are a professional diving enthusiast, you can also choose to go diving in the nearby sea area under the guidance of professional coaches to explore the beautiful underwater world.
Are there souvenir shops in the scenic area? What characteristic souvenirs can be bought?
Yes, there are souvenir shops in the Tianya Haijiao scenic area. You can buy handicrafts made of shells, pearl jewelry, local folk paintings, and some small items with the logo of Tianya Haijiao, which are very good souvenirs to take back home and remember this special place.
