Haikou arcaded streets

Have you ever wondered where in the Celestial Empire you can find an exquisite fusion of Oriental flavor and European Baroque? Haikou invites you to take such a journey through time by strolling along the famous Arcade Streets (Qilou Old Street). This historical quarter in China is a unique ensemble of buildings where the lower floors form covered galleries for pedestrians.

Haikou Arcade Streets. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

The district's architecture is a fascinating mix of styles brought by overseas traders in the 1920s. Here, elements inspired by Ancient Greece and the European Renaissance harmoniously coexist with Asian, Indian, and Arabic motifs. The entire complex covers about 1.2 km² and includes more than 600 shophouses that have preserved their exquisite carvings, parapets, and colored shutters.

In 2009, the quarter was recognized as one of the most significant historical streets in the country. It is not just an open-air museum, but a living neighborhood where trade still bustles and the air is filled with the scent of traditional spices and tea. The whitewashed facades and potted palms on Zhongshan pedestrian street create a unique atmosphere reminiscent of the golden age of maritime trade.

When planning a visit to this architectural landmark in China, it is helpful to have up-to-date information on its location. Although it is an open urban quarter, having the exact address will help you find your way more quickly.

A walk through the Arcade Streets is, above all, an immersion into the authentic atmosphere of the old city. Here, you can spend hours admiring the details of the Baroque facades, the curved lines of balconies, and vintage signs. Be sure to visit Zhongshan pedestrian street, where restored buildings appear in all their glory, and numerous sculptures recreate scenes from the lives of townspeople in past centuries.

Fans of shopping and gastronomy will find it particularly interesting here. You can visit shops selling Chinese herbs, premium teas, and local products, and then head to one of the cafes to try the famous Hainanese cuisine. The arcades provide pleasant shade even on the hottest day, making for a comfortable and unhurried walk.

Don't miss the chance to see the oldest buildings in the district, such as the Sipai Building or the ancient Mazu Temple, erected back in the 15th century. Towards evening, the quarter fills with a special charm: the soft light of lanterns emphasizes the texture of the old walls, and modern conceptual coffee shops in historical shophouses invite you to enjoy a moment where history meets modernity.

Getting to this historical district in Haikou is easy, as it is located in the heart of the Longhua District. If you are arriving in the city via the international airport, a taxi ride will take about 20–30 minutes (the distance is approximately 15 km), which is the most comfortable way to travel with luggage.

For those who prefer public transport, the Qilou area is served by a well-developed network of bus routes. Look for stops near Zhongshan Street, which is considered the main tourist hub of the quarter. It is also convenient to get around the city center on rented bicycles or electric scooters, enjoying the proximity of the Nandu River.

If you are already in the central part of the city, a walk is an excellent choice. The area is predominantly pedestrian-friendly, allowing tourists to leisurely study the architecture without being distracted by busy road traffic.

The history of this place is rooted in the distant past: the current layout of the streets began to take shape more than 600 years ago. Originally, Haikou developed as a fortified port that played a key role in China's coastal defense and trade. The oldest evidence of that era is the Sipai Building, erected during the Southern Song Dynasty.

The district acquired its unique appearance, known as the qilou style, in the 19th and especially in the early 20th century. Overseas Chinese merchants returning from Southeast Asia brought with them elements of European Baroque and adapted them to the local tropical climate. This led to the famous covered galleries that protected pedestrians from the scorching sun and heavy rains, creating a comfortable environment for commerce.

In 2009, the Haikou Arcade Streets were officially recognized as one of the ten most famous historical streets in the country. A large-scale restoration carried out on Zhongshan Street preserved the smallest details: ancient inscriptions on facades, elegant carvings, and original window openings, turning the area into a living open-air museum.

Among other notable sites is the Mazu Temple, built in the 15th century. Dedicated to the patron goddess of sailors, it still serves as a reminder of the city's close connection to maritime traditions and seafaring culture, which has nourished this region for centuries.

To leisurely explore the main architectural gems and soak up the spirit of the old town, most travelers need between 2 and 4 hours. This is usually enough time to walk along the main streets, such as Zhongshan and Boai, and take impressive photos of the Baroque facades.

If you plan to browse local antique shops, shop for tea, or try traditional Hainanese delicacies in street cafes, it is better to set aside half a day for the visit. An evening stroll, when the lights come on and modern establishments in historical buildings open their doors, can be a pleasant end to the day.

Since the Arcade Streets are part of the public urban space, access to them is open 24 hours a day, every day. This allows tourists to plan their walk for any convenient time — whether it's early morning for quiet photos without the crowds or late evening to observe the lights of the night city.

However, keep in mind that most shops, souvenir stalls, museums, and cafes operate on their own schedules, usually opening around 9:00–10:00 and closing around 21:00–22:00. To visit specific establishments, it is recommended to check their official information in advance.

Exploring the surroundings of the old quarter will allow you to see Haikou from different perspectives — from quiet historical alleys to modern entertainment centers. After immersing yourself in the atmosphere of the past, you can head to one of the nearby locations for a change of scenery and family relaxation.