Changjiang

Hainan’s Changjiang is an underrated gem of a small city. It does not have the bustle of Sanya, but it has preserved its pristine coastline, tropical rainforest, and rich Li ethnic culture. It is especially suited to travelers who want to avoid crowds and seek a relaxed pace.

• ​​Qizi Bay​​: One of the best-preserved original natural landscapes on Hainan’s west coast, divided into three sections: Dajiao, Zhongjiao, and Xiaojiao. Dajiao has the popular sea-bound coastal road, Zhongjiao is good for beachcombing and picking up shells, and Xiaojiao is an excellent spot for a stunning sunset.
• ​​Bawangling​​: The best-preserved core area of tropical primary forest in Hainan Province, and the only habitat in the world of the Hainan black-crested gibbon. With abundant negative oxygen ions, it is ideal for hiking, breathing in fresh forest air, and exploring the rainforest.
• ​​Wangxia Township​​: A hidden destination full of original Li village charm, including the Huangdi Cave karst cave, the boat-shaped houses of Hongshui Village, and the Ten-Mile Gallery. It preserves a strong Li cultural atmosphere and is well suited to in-depth cultural travel and adventure.
• ​​Shayutang Village​​: A filming location for Back to Field, where the sea-facing Mushroom House and quiet fishing-village atmosphere feel especially relaxing. It is good for photo stops and simply zoning out by the sea.
• ​​Xiantian Village​​: Known as “Changjiang’s Little Altay,” it reveals a grassland-like beach after the tide goes out, with especially beautiful scenery at sunset. You can also try beach fishing and paddleboarding here.

Food Recommendations

Changjiang’s food is full of authentic local flavor, with seafood and Li specialties being must-tries.

• ​​Wulie Suckling Lamb​​: A signature Changjiang dish. The meat is tender and not gamey; eating it plain-boiled with dipping sauce best preserves its original flavor. Restaurants in Shilu Town are recommended for trying it.
• ​​Changhua Port Seafood​​: The food stalls by the pier are the most down-to-earth choice. Grouper, prawns, and mango clams are steamed or blanched, tasting fresh, sweet, and delicious, with prices more affordable than in the urban area.
• ​​Li Bamboo-Tube Rice​​: A traditional Li dish roasted in fresh bamboo tubes. The rice carries a light bamboo fragrance, and with the local dipping sauce, it has a distinctive texture and flavor.
• ​​Sour Bean Juice and Zhàzhà​​: The soul pairing of Changjiang night markets. Sour bean juice is sweet-sour and cuts through greasiness, while zhàzhà, similar to fried skewers, is coated in a secret sauce and is a favorite late-night snack among locals.
• ​​Sandworm Congee​​: Congee made with fresh sandworms, rich in ingredients and full of umami. It is a breakfast and late-night snack option much loved by Changjiang locals.

Accommodation Suggestions

• ​​Around Qizi Bay​​: If you want sea views, choose a seaside guesthouse (RMB 150-250/night) or a resort (RMB 300-600/night). Some have sea-view terraces, making them suitable for relaxing with ocean views and for families with children.
• ​​Shilu County Town​​: Better value for money (RMB 120-200/night), within walking distance of the night market, convenient for trying snacks such as pickled mango and zhàzhà, and for experiencing local nightlife.
• ​​Li Villages in Wangxia Township​​: For an immersive experience of Li culture, stay in a Li-style guesthouse in Sanpai Village or Hongshui Village (RMB 200-350/night). The surroundings are quiet, and you can see the stars at night.

Classic 4-Day, 3-Night Itinerary

• ​​Day 1​​: Arrive in Changjiang ➡️ Head to Qizi Bay Dajiao to check in at the sea-bound road ➡️ Go beachcombing and pick up shells at Zhongjiao ➡️ Watch a beautiful sunset at Xiaojiao ➡️ Catch small crabs on the beach in the evening.
• ​​Day 2​​: Visit Xiantian Village (“Little Altay”) for a grassland-like sunset ➡️ Pray for blessings at Junling Mingwang Temple ➡️ Head to Shilu Town to visit Iron Ore National Mine Park and the Old Railway Station ➡️ Browse Beautiful Spring Night Market in the evening for snacks.
• ​​Day 3​​: Drive to Wangxia Township ➡️ Explore the Huangdi Cave karst cave ➡️ Hike the Ten-Mile Gallery ➡️ Visit the ancient village and boat-shaped houses of Hongshui Village ➡️ Stay overnight in a Li village guesthouse.
• ​​Day 4​​: Go to Bawangling for a rainforest hike and fresh forest air ➡️ Try Li pottery handcrafting in Baotu Village ➡️ Return.

Practical Tips and Pitfalls to Avoid

• ​​Transportation​​: Changjiang’s attractions are relatively spread out, so ​​self-driving or hiring a car is strongly recommended​​. High-speed rail goes directly to Qiziwan Station, but you will still need to rent a car after exiting the station to reach other attractions.
• ​​Sun Protection and Warmth​​: UV rays by the sea are strong, so be sure to bring high-SPF sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. Qizi Bay is windy at night and temperatures are lower, so a light jacket is recommended.
• ​​Beachcombing Tips​​: Before going beachcombing at Qizi Bay or Xiantian Village, be sure to check the ​​tide table​​ in advance. Go at low tide for the best finds. Watch out for slippery rocks and wear non-slip shoes.
• ​​Road Conditions in Wangxia Township​​: The last half hour to Huangdi Cave and Ten-Mile Gallery is on winding mountain roads with many bends. Those prone to carsickness should prepare medication, and you must return before dark, as there are no streetlights on the mountain roads at night.
• ​​Best Season​​: November to April is the prime season, with pleasant weather. From February to March, kapok flowers bloom along the Changhua River, when the scenery is at its most beautiful. May to October is hotter and often has afternoon thunderstorms, but it is good for seeing lush rainforest greenery and eating mangoes.