Luhuitou Park

On the southern edge of Sanya, on a picturesque peninsula, lies Luhuitou Park—a unique natural and cultural site that has become the symbol of this tropical region. Located in China, this park spans five lush green hills, with the highest rising nearly 280 meters above sea level. Surrounded by the azure waters of the South China Sea on three sides, it is one of the best viewpoints in the region.

Luhuitou Park. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

The park holds Category 4A tourist zone status and is often mentioned as a place where ancient legends come to life. Its name translates as "The Deer Turned Its Head," referring to the famous love story of a hunter and a beautiful deer fairy. The centerpiece of the park is a colossal stone statue erected on the hilltop in honor of these heroes. Thanks to this legend, Sanya is often called "Deer City."

In addition to its cultural significance, Luhuitou is striking for its natural diversity. Here you can see cascades of bright red bougainvillea (the city's symbol), encounter curious monkeys, and admire breathtaking panoramas of Phoenix Island, Sanya Bay, and the mountain ranges. It is a place where tropical nature and the modern aesthetics of a resort city blend harmoniously.

To confirm current event information or group visits, you can contact the park administration directly or through official tourism portals.

The main reason to visit the park is for its stunning panoramic views. You can climb to the summit on foot along winding paths, enjoying the scents of tropical plants, or take a comfortable electric cart. The northern observation deck offers the best view of the futuristic buildings of Phoenix Island and the endless expanse of the bay—an ideal spot for memorable photos.

Be sure to make time to meet the local inhabitants: monkeys often appear on the forest trails. They are used to people and willingly pose for photos, but be careful with your belongings. You should also visit the Tingchao Pavilion, where you can listen to the sound of the tide in silence, and walk to the romantic "Lovers' Island," which is particularly popular with couples.

For those who get hungry or want to rest, there are cafes on the grounds where you can enjoy fresh coconut juice or try local ice cream. In the evening, the park is transformed as the illumination turns on, and the city below blooms with millions of lights. This is the best time to watch the sunset when the sky over the South China Sea is painted in incredible shades.

Reaching this scenic spot is easy, as it is located just 5 kilometers south of the city center. If you prefer public transport, take bus No. 2 or No. 4, which go directly to the main entrance. This is a convenient and budget-friendly way to reach the peninsula from the city's busy districts.

For those who value comfort, a taxi or ride-sharing service is the optimal choice. A trip from the central part of the city or from popular hotels usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. If you are coming from the airport, expect a similar travel time depending on traffic.

The park entrance is located on Luling Road in the Jiyang District. While some tourists opt to walk from Sanya Bay beaches, keep in mind that the walk can take about an hour under the hot tropical sun. To save your energy for exploring the park itself, it is better to use transportation.

The name "Luhuitou" translates from Chinese as "The Deer Turned Its Head." This name is deeply rooted in an ancient and incredibly beautiful legend of the Li people. Legend has it that a young hunter pursued a beautiful doe until she reached the edge of a cliff. At the moment the young man drew his bowstring, the animal turned around and transformed into a beautiful fairy girl. This love story is considered one of China's three most famous legends.

The hill itself, where the park is situated, is shaped like a deer frozen before the depths of the sea. The sculptural composition at the summit, depicting the hunter and the deer fairy, was erected as a symbol of eternal love and devotion. Today, this site is recognized as the cultural cradle of the region and is a signature landmark of the city.

Beyond legends, the park is known for its past scientific significance: an observation station for Halley's Comet was once set up here. Over the centuries, the area has inspired poets and artists, and today it combines historical heritage with 4A-rated tourist status, attracting thousands of travelers with its romantic atmosphere.

To enjoy a leisurely walk through the park, take beautiful photos, and soak in the views, we recommend setting aside about 2–3 hours. This is plenty of time to climb to the main sculpture, visit the observation decks, and relax in the shade of the tropical trees.

If you decide to hike to the summit on foot, the walk can take up to 3–4 hours. Using an electric cart significantly saves time, allowing you to see the main locations in a couple of hours. Many tourists prefer to arrive closer to evening to see the park both in daylight and in the rays of the setting sun.

Luhuitou Park welcomes guests daily, including weekends and holidays. The gates open at 08:00 and close at 22:30. Please note that entry for visitors stops at 22:00, so plan your visit in advance.

Operating hours may change depending on weather conditions or special events. It is recommended to check information on the official website or with the park administration before visiting.

Exploring the park's surroundings will give you an even better sense of the region's character. After a stroll through the shaded alleys, you can head to nearby entertainment centers and aquariums that offer a glimpse into the amazing underwater world of the South China Sea.

There are many interesting locations near the peninsula, from cozy bars to theme parks, making this area ideal for a full day of sightseeing.