Luhuitou Hilltop Park
Luhuitou Hilltop Park, perched on the southern tip of Sanya City, Hainan Province, is a iconic scenic spot blending romantic legends, panoramic coastal views, and lush tropical landscapes. Named after the mythical "Deer Turning Back" folktale, the park offers visitors a chance to explore cultural heritage, enjoy breathtaking sunsets, and hike through verdant forests. With its elevated vantage point overlooking Sanya Bay and the South China Sea, it has become a symbol of love and natural beauty, attracting millions of tourists annually since its establishment in 1989.
Historical Overview
The park’s name originates from a Li ethnic minority legend: a young hunter pursued a white deer through mountains until it transformed into a beautiful maiden at this hilltop, symbolizing eternal love. The site was developed into a park in the late 20th century, preserving Li cultural elements like sculptures and folklore displays. Over decades, it evolved into a multifaceted attraction featuring observation decks, cultural museums, and eco-trails. In 2012, it was designated a national AAAA-level tourist scenic area, solidifying its status as a must-visit destination in Hainan.
Structural Layout
The park spans 277 acres and is divided into three main zones:
- Legendary Hilltop Zone: Home to the iconic Deer-Turning-Back Statue, observation platforms, and the Moon-Old Love Temple.
- Cultural Exploration Zone: Includes the Li Ethnic Culture Museum, folk performance stages, and handicraft workshops.
- Natural Ecology Zone: Features hiking trails, tropical gardens, and a butterfly-themed park.
Key structures include the 285-meter-high main peak, the 360° Skywalk, and the Sanya Bay Overlook Pavilion.
Major Attractions
- Deer-Turning-Back Statue: A 15-meter-tall bronze sculpture depicting the legendary hunter and deer, offering a romantic photo spot.
- Moon-Old Love Temple: A traditional pavilion with Li-style architecture, hosting wedding ceremonies and cultural events.
- Skywalk Observation Deck: A glass-floored platform suspended 200 meters above sea level, providing vertigo-inducing views.
- Li Ethnic Culture Museum: Exhibits traditional costumes, tools, and artifacts of the Li people, with interactive displays.
- Tropical Botanical Garden: Showcases over 200 species of native plants, including palm trees and orchids.
- Butterfly Valley: A enclosed habitat with hundreds of colorful butterfly species, ideal for families.
Suggested Itineraries
- Romantic Sunset Tour (2–3 hours):
Entrance → Deer Statue → Skywalk → Moon-Old Love Temple → Sanya Bay Overlook → Exit at sunset.
Highlights: Couples’ photoshoots, panoramic coastal views, and sunset watching.
- Cultural & Nature Explorer (4–5 hours):
Entrance → Li Museum → Folk Performance Stage → Tropical Garden → Butterfly Valley → Hiking Trails → Exit.
Highlights: Cultural immersion, botanical wonders, and light trekking.
- Full-Day Adventure (6–7 hours):
Entrance → All major attractions + guided eco-trail hike → picnic at designated zones → sunset at Skywalk → Exit.
Highlights: Comprehensive experience with hiking and relaxation.
Ticket Purchase
- Online: Book via the official WeChat account Luhuitou Scenic Area or travel platforms like Ctrip (up to 3 days in advance).
- On-Site: Tickets available at the entrance, but queues peak during holidays.
- Prices:
- Adults: ¥45 (peak season), ¥35 (off-season).
- Students/Seniors: ¥25 (ID required).
- Free: Children under 1.2m, disabled visitors, and active military personnel.
- Additional fees: Skywalk (¥20), guided tours (¥50–100).
Transportation
- By Bus: Take routes 3, 22, or 26 to the “Luhuitou Park” stop.
- By Taxi: Direct ride from Sanya Downtown (¥15–20, 15 minutes).
- By Shuttle: Free park shuttle from Sanya Bay hotels (pre-booking required).
- Parking: Paid parking lot at the entrance (¥10/hour).
Best Time & Tips
- Peak Hours: Avoid 11 AM–3 PM; visit early morning (7:30 AM opening) or late afternoon for sunsets.
- Crowds: Weekends and Chinese holidays are busiest; weekdays offer quieter exploration.
- Weather: November–April (dry season) is ideal; summer can be hot and humid.
- Essentials:
- Wear lightweight, breathable clothing and sturdy shoes for trails.
- Bring sunscreen, hats, and insect repellent.
- Hydrate frequently; bottled water available inside.
- Photography allowed everywhere except inside the Li Museum’s artifact rooms.
- Prohibited items: Drones, large backpacks, and pets (service animals excepted).