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The Ganshiling Betel Nut Valley Aboriginal Chiyou Tribe Cultural Tourist Area in Hainan, located in Ganshiling at the border of Baoting and Sanya, is a national nature reserve. Betel nut trees form a dense forest, with a betel nut valley stretching for several kilometers in the middle, hence the name Betel Nut Valley. The area consists of three main sections: the Aboriginal Li Village, the former Chiyou Miao Village, and the pristine rainforest valley.
In ancient times, the Jiuli were a tribal alliance that inhabited the middle and lower reaches of the Yellow River and the Yangtze River basin. The Jiuli comprised nine tribes, each with nine clans, with Chiyou as their chieftain. Legend has it that after Chiyou's defeat, some Jiuli migrated south, intermingling with the indigenous Miao and Man tribes. Therefore, Chiyou is often called the ancestor of the Miao and Yao peoples of the south. The descendants of this ancient people now live in Ganshi, Hainan, and can be considered authentic locals with a "Hainan flavor."
tropical monsoon climate;
Suitable for all seasons
It is recommended to play for 2 to 3 hours
Included in the ticket for the Binglang Valley Scenic Area:
Off-season: 80 yuan; Peak season: 96 yuan
08:00-17:30
Ticket sales time: 16:00
The Chiyou Tribe of Ganshiling is a cultural heritage site that honors the Chiyou people, an ancient tribe of the Yao ethnic group. The site offers a glimpse into the rich history of the tribe, known for their warrior traditions and distinct customs. The Chiyou Tribe played a significant role in the history of Hainan and is celebrated for its contributions to local culture.
The Chiyou Tribe of Ganshiling is located in Baoting County, Hainan. It can be reached by taxi or bus from the Baoting city center. The nearest major city is Sanya, which is about 1-2 hours away by car. Public transportation options include buses that connect Baoting to the site.
The site is open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily. The best times to visit are during the cooler months (November to February) or early mornings to avoid the heat and crowds.
The entrance fee is approximately 50-70 CNY per person. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance or through local travel agencies. Some hotels and online platforms also offer ticket booking services.
It is recommended to book tickets in advance during peak tourist seasons (such as holidays and weekends) to avoid long waiting times. Booking a day or two ahead is usually sufficient.
A visit to the Chiyou Tribe of Ganshiling typically takes about 2-3 hours to explore the village, learn about the tribe's history, and enjoy the surrounding nature. If you plan to participate in workshops or performances, it may take longer.
Guided tours are available in both Chinese and English, providing an in-depth look at the tribe's history and culture. Audio guides are also available for those who prefer to explore independently.
The best photography spots are near the traditional houses of the Chiyou Tribe, especially in the early morning light. The surrounding mountains and forested areas offer breathtaking views, ideal for landscape photography.
Start by visiting the cultural exhibitions to understand the history of the Chiyou Tribe. Then, explore the traditional homes and village area. Finish with a walk through the scenic trails for the best views of the surrounding nature.
Currently, there are no night visits or light shows. However, special cultural performances or workshops may be available during certain festivals or events.
The site can get crowded during national holidays and weekends. To avoid the crowds, it is best to visit during weekdays or in the early morning.
There are public toilets available throughout the site. Several small shops offer snacks, drinks, and souvenirs. There are also rest areas where visitors can relax and enjoy the surroundings.
The site is somewhat accessible for elderly and disabled visitors, but some areas may have uneven paths or stairs. Children will enjoy the cultural displays and open areas, though some parts of the village may require walking uphill.
While cash is accepted, mobile payments (WeChat Pay and Alipay) are widely used and preferred for both ticket purchases and in-store purchases.
There are a few local restaurants near the site serving Hainanese dishes, including seafood, rice, and tropical fruits. Some restaurants may offer ethnic-style meals reflecting the culture of the Chiyou Tribe.
Vegetarian and vegan options are limited but can be found in some local restaurants. Halal food options are less common in the area, but nearby larger towns may have more variety.
There are several accommodations in Baoting County, including mid-range hotels and guesthouses. For a more luxurious stay, you can head to Sanya, which is about 1-2 hours away by car and offers upscale resorts and beachfront hotels.
Souvenir shops at the site offer handicrafts made by the local Yao and Chiyou tribes, including woven items, pottery, and traditional clothing. Local herbal teas and tropical fruit products are also popular souvenirs.
To continue your trip, taxis or private cars are the most convenient options. Buses are available for travel to nearby attractions, and the nearest major city, Sanya, is accessible by car.
