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Dongfang City, located in southwestern Hainan Province, is part of the Beibu Gulf urban agglomeration. It boasts a long history, abundant resources, a solid foundation, and significant latecomer advantages. Its administrative divisions began in the first year of the Yuanfeng reign of Emperor Wu of the Western Han Dynasty. Jiulong County was established in 110 BC, renamed Gratitude County during the Sui Dynasty. After liberation, the county seat was located in Dongfangdong, a site of the Li ethnic group, earning it the title Dongfang Li Autonomous County. The county was abolished and established as a city in 1997. Dongfang City boasts a wealth of natural resources, including rare and exotic birds, sour beans, green plums, agarwood rosewood, and hundreds of rare and exotic trees. It is often praised as "the world's rosewood is in China, China's rosewood is in Hainan, and Hainan's rosewood is in Dongfang." Dongfang City, nestled along the coast of Basuo, is a key energy and heavy chemical industry base in Hainan Province. With a long history of trade with Vietnam, generations of friendships have been forged between border residents. As the only city port in Hainan with a border trade policy, it holds immense business opportunities.
Dongfang City, located on the western coast of Hainan Island, is known for its historical significance in agriculture and its growing importance as a tourism destination. It has cultural influences from both native Hainanese traditions and influences from neighboring regions.
Dongfang City is located in the western part of Hainan Province. It can be accessed by bus, taxi, or private vehicle. The nearest airport is Haikou Meilan International Airport, which is about 2 hours away by car.
The best times to visit are from November to March, as the weather is milder and less humid. Attractions are typically open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, but it’s always good to check specific sites for exact hours.
Entrance fees for attractions generally range from 20 RMB to 60 RMB. Tickets can be purchased at the attraction entrances, and some places also offer online booking through local platforms.
Booking tickets in advance is not usually required unless visiting during peak tourist seasons (holidays, weekends). Booking a day or two in advance is sufficient for most attractions.
You’ll need 1-2 days to explore Dongfang City and its main attractions, such as the Dongfang Scenic Area, local markets, and cultural sites.
Guided tours are available at major attractions, with tours typically in Chinese. Some sites may offer English-speaking guides on request, especially for larger groups.
Start your visit with a morning hike in Dongfang Scenic Area, followed by a visit to the Dongfang City Museum. In the afternoon, enjoy a relaxing time at the hot springs, and finish the day exploring the local markets for souvenirs.
Night visits are not typically available, but some attractions may have evening lighting for a beautiful nighttime view. Special tours may be arranged for groups with prior booking.
The city is not very crowded, even during peak seasons. Weekdays and the off-peak months (October to February) are the best times to visit to avoid crowds.
Most attractions in Dongfang have basic facilities like toilets, water stations, and rest areas. Local shops and food stalls offer a variety of snacks and traditional items.
Many attractions are accessible to elderly, children, and disabled visitors, though some of the hiking areas may require additional assistance. It is recommended to check accessibility features before visiting specific sites.
Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are widely accepted, and credit cards are also commonly used at larger establishments. However, it’s a good idea to carry some cash for smaller shops or more remote areas.
There are a variety of local Hainanese restaurants offering traditional dishes such as seafood, rice, and tropical fruits. Local cafes serve coffee, tea, and light snacks.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available in most restaurants, especially those serving Hainanese dishes. Halal food options may be found in larger cities like Haikou or Sanya.
There are several budget and mid-range hotels in Dongfang City. For more upscale accommodations, consider staying in the nearby city of Sanya, which has a wider range of hotels.
Souvenir shops in Dongfang City sell traditional Hainan crafts, local teas, tropical fruit products, and handmade jewelry.
From Dongfang, buses and taxis can take you to other nearby cities like Sanya or Haikou. High-speed trains and buses are also available for longer trips across Hainan Island.
