Chengmai

Chengmai is an underrated treasure of a small city. Known as a “World Longevity Town,” it offers not only rich coffee aromas and untouched ancient volcanic-rock villages, but also stunning coastline, making it perfect for a healing trip at a slower pace.

Must-Visit Attractions in Chengmai

Chengmai’s attractions are relatively concentrated, with both natural ecology and deep cultural history. Here are the places most worth visiting:

• Mangrove Bay Wetland Park: Tens of thousands of mu of mangroves create a water-forest landscape, and you can also see flamingos here. It is a great spot for eco-sightseeing and family outings.

• Yongqing Temple: The largest Buddhist temple in northern Hainan, surrounded by the sea on three sides. The temple is popular with worshippers, and in the evening you can also enjoy a beautiful sea sunset nearby.

• Fushan Coffee Culture Town: A national 4A-rated scenic area with numerous cafés, ideal for checking in at the giant coffee-cup landmark and trying hand-brewed coffee.

• Luoyi Ancient Village: A thousand-year-old ancient volcanic-rock village, with more than a hundred volcanic-stone houses and an old post road still preserved. The village has simple local customs and a strong original character.

• Meilang Twin Pagodas: The best-preserved Song dynasty stone pagodas in Hainan and a Major Historical and Cultural Site Protected at the National Level. The twin pagodas, built from volcanic stone, are of great cultural value.

• Leigong Island: An undeveloped black volcanic-lava beach, reminiscent of Iceland’s black sand beaches. It is especially suitable for aerial photography and coastal foraging at low tide.

Classic 3-Day, 2-Night Itinerary

If you plan to spend a few days in Chengmai, this relaxed route is a good reference:

• Day 1: Coffee and Wetland Leisure
  • Morning: Arrive in Chengmai and head to Fushan Coffee Culture Town. Find a café to taste authentic Fushan coffee and enjoy the slow pace of this coffee town.
  • Afternoon: Visit Mangrove Bay Wetland Park, stroll along the wooden boardwalks to see mangroves and flamingos, and breathe in the high concentration of negative oxygen ions.
  • Evening: Return to the old town and browse the Dongpo Pedestrian Street night market. Try local specialties such as Bailian goose and Ruixi beef jerky.

• Day 2: Ancient Village Culture and Seaside Zen
  • Morning: Check in at Meilang Twin Pagodas and admire the Song dynasty stone-carving craftsmanship, then head to Luoyi Ancient Village for a walk along its volcanic-stone paths.
  • Afternoon: Visit Yongqing Temple to pray for blessings. The Yingbin Peninsula is just outside the temple, so you can also enjoy the sea views along the way.
  • Evening: In the old town, try authentic Chengmai zaopo vinegar hot pot or a seafood feast.

• Day 3: Volcanic Ecology and Coastal Exploration
  • Morning: Visit Daxie Waterfall to see the rare sight of a plains volcanic-rock waterfall, surrounded by rice fields and highly photogenic scenery.

• Afternoon: Head to Leigong Island to see the black volcanic-lava coast. At low tide, you can also try coastal foraging.
  • Evening: Return home with plenty of memories.

Must-Try Chengmai Specialties

When visiting Chengmai, coffee is not the only highlight. These authentic local foods are also not to be missed:

Practical Travel Tips for Chengmai

• Transport: Chengmai’s attractions are relatively spread out, especially the ancient villages and waterfalls, so driving yourself is the most convenient option.
• Best Time to Visit: The weather is most comfortable from October to April of the following year, making it ideal for escaping the cold and enjoying outdoor activities.
• Notes: Before visiting Leigong Island and Daxie Waterfall, be sure to check the weather and tide tables, and take precautions against mosquitoes and safety risks.