Wuzhishan (Shuimanhe) Tropical Rainforest in Sanya

Wuzhishan (五指山) is the highest mountain in Hainan (海南) and a symbol of the island. It is also one of China's famous mountains, listed as a Grade A tourist destination by the International Tourism Organization. Located in the central part of Hainan Island (海南岛), the mountain's jagged peaks resemble five fingers, which is how it got its name. From a distance, Wuzhishan is enveloped in lush greenery, with white clouds swirling around its peaks, creating a surreal atmosphere where it feels like you're floating in the sky.

The Wuzhishan Tropical Rainforest Scenic Area (五指山热带雨林风景区) and Shuimanhe Tropical Rainforest Scenic Area (水满河热带雨林风景区) refer to the same location, with Shuimanhe (水满河) being the core area of the rainforest in Shuiman Township (水满乡), Wuzhishan City (五指山市). It is a national AAA-level tourist site, centered around the pristine tropical rainforest ecosystem.

Key Features

• Official Name: In government registration systems, the area is named "Wuzhishan Tropical Rainforest Scenic Area (Shuimanhe Zone)" (五指山热带雨林风景区（水满区）).

• Location: Located in Shuiman Township (水满乡) of Wuzhishan City (五指山市), approximately 28 kilometers from Wuzhishan City and around 110 kilometers from Sanya (三亚).

• Core Attractions: The main attractions include the Mountain Viewing Platform (观山台), Shuimanhe River (水满河), and the Li Ethnic Village (黎族文化村).

Entrance Fees

• General Admission: ¥50 per person

• Rafting Activity: ¥186 per person

Geography and Climate

Wuzhishan is a part of a tropical monsoon climate zone with mountainous weather. The annual rainfall ranges between 800-2300mm, with an average annual temperature of 20.8°C. The area experiences significant temperature differences between day and night, around 10°C, making it an ideal destination with pleasant weather year-round. It is a natural "oxygen bar," known for its clean air and mild climate, with warm winters and cool summers.

Scenic Area

The rainforest area covers approximately 210,000 acres, with 90.63 square kilometers of original forest, 9.12 square kilometers of closed secondary forest, and 11.47 square kilometers of semi-closed secondary forest. The Shuimanhe River (水满河), formed by mountain spring water from Wuzhishan, is the source of Changhua River (昌化江), Hainan's second-largest river.

The area is home to a diverse range of tropical plants, such as wild lychees, wild tea trees, and rare species like the red flower tianliao wood (红花天料木), as well as fascinating rainforest phenomena like "strangling plants" (绞杀现象) and "aerial flower baskets" (空中花篮). The park also features cascading streams, a wealth of tropical flora, and vibrant butterfly populations.

Major Attractions

Tropical Rainforest Boardwalk

The Tropical Rainforest Boardwalk (热带雨林栈道) begins at Shuiman Village (水满上村) and stretches for 2 kilometers along Shuimanhe Creek (水满溪), winding through the forest, and ending at one of the best viewpoints of Wuzhishan. The journey offers a view of diverse plant life, including sago palms and wild orchids. The boardwalk preserves the authenticity of the tropical rainforest, emphasizing ecological conservation while providing ample space for flora and fauna.

Wuzhishan Viewing Point

The best spot for admiring Wuzhishan is the Mountain Viewing Platform (观山台), which offers a panoramic view of Hainan's highest peak (海南第一峰) at 1868 meters. The five peaks of the mountain resemble five fingers stretching into the sky, often shrouded in mist, creating a mystical sight. This is the ideal spot to experience the mountain's grandeur and natural beauty.

Li Ethnic Village

Visitors can also explore the Li Ethnic Village (黎族文化村), where the traditional life and customs of the Li people (黎族) are preserved. This village offers a glimpse into the ancient culture and daily life of one of Hainan's indigenous peoples.

Flora and Fauna

The area is rich in biodiversity, making it a paradise for nature lovers. It is home to various species of amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals. Wuzhishan is also a haven for rare tropical plants, and the region is known for its unique ecosystems and natural beauty.

Activities and Experiences

• Rafting: The scenic area offers rafting along the Shuimanhe River (水满河), a thrilling water activity in the rainforest.

• Nature Walks: Explore the dense tropical rainforest on foot, where guests can observe the vibrant plant and animal life.

• Cultural Experience: Learn about the indigenous Li people's traditions and culture, including their handicrafts, music, and dance performances.

Wuzhishan (五指山) is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and those seeking a retreat into pristine wilderness. Its breathtaking landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and cultural heritage offer an immersive experience that connects visitors with both nature and the local traditions of Hainan (海南). With its lush tropical rainforests, stunning mountain views, and rich biodiversity, this area remains one of the most unique and beautiful natural attractions in China.