Qionghai (琼海) is a county-level city in eastern Hainan Province (海南省), located in the middle and lower reaches of the Wanquan River (万泉河). Known for its beautiful rivers, tropical countryside, coastal scenery, and the famous Bo’ao Forum for Asia (博鳌亚洲论坛), Qionghai offers a balanced combination of natural landscapes, cultural heritage, and relaxed island life. Unlike the more resort-focused destinations in southern Hainan, Qionghai provides visitors with an authentic experience of riverside towns, fishing villages, tropical agriculture, and traditional Hainan culture.
Why Visit Qionghai?
Bo’ao Town and Bo’ao Forum for Asia – International Coastal Destination:
Bo’ao (博鳌) is Qionghai’s most famous destination and the permanent venue of the Bo’ao Forum for Asia (博鳌亚洲论坛). Located where the Wanquan River meets the South China Sea, Bo’ao features beautiful coastal landscapes, river scenery, islands, and peaceful fishing villages. Visitors can explore the forum area, enjoy seaside views, and experience the unique atmosphere of an international coastal town.
Wanquan River – Symbol of Hainan’s Natural Beauty:
Wanquan River (万泉河) is one of Hainan’s most famous rivers and an important symbol of Qionghai. Flowing through mountains, countryside, and coastal areas, the river creates beautiful landscapes with clear water, green forests, and traditional villages. Visitors can enjoy river sightseeing, rafting, photography, and exploring the peaceful scenery along the riverbanks.
Yudai Beach – River Meets the Sea Landscape:
Yudai Beach (玉带滩) is a narrow coastal sandbar located near Bo’ao, where the Wanquan River meets the South China Sea. One side faces the river and the other side faces the ocean, creating a unique natural landscape. The area is ideal for walking, photography, and enjoying the spectacular contrast between river, beach, and sea.
Tropical Countryside and Rural Culture:
Qionghai is famous for its beautiful countryside, featuring coconut groves, rice fields, tropical farms, and traditional villages. Visitors can experience local agricultural life, explore rural landscapes, cycle through villages, and enjoy the slower pace of Hainan’s inland communities.
Red Women’s Army Cultural Heritage:
Qionghai is closely connected with the history of the Red Women’s Army (红色娘子军), a famous revolutionary women’s military unit established in Hainan during the 20th century. The region preserves related historical sites and cultural displays, providing visitors with insight into modern Chinese history and local heritage.
Tanmen Fishing Port – Coastal Fishing Culture:
Tanmen Town (潭门镇) is one of Hainan’s famous fishing areas, known for its traditional fishing culture and seafood industry. Visitors can explore the fishing port, enjoy fresh seafood, learn about maritime traditions, and experience the daily life of coastal communities.
Tropical Agriculture and Local Products:
Qionghai’s warm climate supports rich tropical agriculture, including coconuts, tropical fruits, vegetables, and specialty agricultural products. The countryside is ideal for farm visits, food experiences, and discovering the connection between Hainan’s natural environment and local cuisine.
Local Cuisine and Hainan Flavors:
Qionghai’s food culture combines coastal seafood traditions with classic Hainan cuisine. Visitors can enjoy fresh seafood, Wenchang chicken, tropical fruits, coconut dishes, local snacks, and specialties from fishing villages and rural communities.