Hainan Beckons: China’s Tropical Island Offers New Attractions for Malaysian Traveller

Guan (seated, centre), Azlan (left), Connie (fifth from left) and travel operators discuss plans for a proposed direct flight between Kota Kinabalu and Haikou.

29 October 2025

KOTA KINABALU: Beyond its famous coffee culture, China’s southernmost island province of Hainan has emerged as a captivating destination filled with natural beauty, cultural richness, and world-class attractions that are increasingly drawing interest from Malaysian travellers.

Described as the “Hawaii of the East”, Hainan offers everything from pristine beaches and lush rainforests to vibrant cultural villages and luxury resorts all just a few hours’ flight away from Malaysia.

Highlighting the island’s many charms, Guan Xuehui, General Manager of Hainan Nanyang International Travel Service Co. Ltd, said Hainan is ready to welcome more visitors from Sabah to experience its unique blend of tradition and modernity.

Speaking during a dinner with local tour operators in Kota Kinabalu, Guan said the island’s mild year-round climate makes it an ideal getaway, especially during winter when its peak tourist season runs from late in the year until March.

Among the must-visit spots is the Xinglong Overseas Chinese Farm, known for its tropical scenery and fascinating mix of Southeast Asian influences. Many returning overseas Chinese brought back coffee culture, architecture, and lifestyle elements from Malaysia and its neighbours, giving Xinglong a distinct Southeast Asian flavour.

Travellers can also immerse themselves in the ethnic heritage of the Li and Miao communities at the Binglanggu Li and Miao Cultural Heritage Park, where traditional crafts, music, and performances offer a glimpse into Hainan’s diverse cultural tapestry.

For those seeking spiritual or historical experiences, the Nanshan Buddhism Cultural Park, home to the impressive 108-metre-tall Guanyin statue overlooking the sea, and the Haikou Qilou Old Street, a charming blend of Chinese and colonial architecture, are not to be missed.

Meanwhile, Sanya Romance Park offers large-scale cultural performances and theme attractions, making it a favourite among families and culture enthusiasts alike.

Guan added that since becoming a Special Economic Zone, Hainan has undergone rapid development, transforming into an international leisure and tourism hub complete with world-class hotels, shopping districts, and coastal resorts.

To make travel even more accessible, discussions are underway to introduce a direct flight between Kota Kinabalu and Haikou, which would further strengthen tourism links between Sabah and Hainan.

“This new air route will make it easier for Malaysians to experience Hainan’s many attractions and, at the same time, encourage Hainanese travellers to explore the natural beauty of Sabah,” said Guan.