Qionghai has transformed from a quiet Hainan town into one of Asia's most important diplomatic venues as the permanent home of the Bo'ao Forum for Asia. Each spring, the world's political and business leaders converge on this small coastal city for what has become known as Asia's answer to Davos. Yet beyond the conference halls and security cordons, Qionghai offers visitors a captivating blend of natural beauty, river landscapes, and rich revolutionary history that makes it one of Hainan's most well-rounded destinations.
The city sits at the confluence of three rivers — the Wanquan, Jiuqu, and Longgun — before they flow into the South China Sea. This unique geography creates a network of waterways that define Qionghai's landscape and lifestyle. The Wanquan River, often called the most beautiful river in Hainan, winds through tropical scenery before reaching Jade Belt Beach, one of the finest stretches of sand on the island. This natural beauty provides a peaceful counterpoint to the diplomatic bustle of the Bo'ao area.
Qionghai also holds a special place in Chinese revolutionary history as the birthplace of the Red Women's Army, one of the most celebrated military units in Communist Party lore. The area's historical sites, combined with its Buddhist heritage exemplified by the magnificent Bo'ao Buddhist Temple, create a destination where modern geopolitics, ancient spirituality, and revolutionary history coexist in a tropical riverside setting.
The Bo'ao Forum for Asia (BFA) permanent venue is the architectural centerpiece of Qionghai's modern identity. Established in 2001, this annual conference brings together heads of state, business leaders, and academics to discuss Asia's economic and political future. The venue complex features striking modern architecture set against tropical gardens and waterfront views. During the annual forum in April, the entire Bo'ao area transforms with heightened security, international media, and a palpable sense of global importance.
Outside of the forum period, the venue is open to visitors who can tour the conference halls, exhibition spaces, and surrounding gardens. The architecture blends traditional Chinese design elements with modern functionality, creating an impressive visual experience. Information displays throughout the venue explain the forum's history and its role in Asian diplomacy. Even without attending a forum session, the experience of standing in the same halls where world leaders have debated global issues is compelling.
Jade Belt Beach is a stunning 8-kilometer stretch of white sand that separates the South China Sea from the mouth of the Wanquan River. Named for its jade-like beauty, the beach is considered one of Hainan's finest and has been designated as one of China's most beautiful beaches by national geographic publications. The unique geography — where river meets ocean — creates a distinctive landscape of calm river water on one side and rolling ocean waves on the other, connected by a narrow ribbon of pristine sand.
The beach offers excellent swimming conditions, with clean water and gentle slopes. Water sports including jet skiing, banana boats, and parasailing are available from operators along the beach. The western end of the beach offers the most dramatic views, where you can see the three rivers converging. Sunrise and sunset are magical times, with the light creating ever-changing colors on the water and sand. Unlike some of Hainan's more commercialized beaches, Jade Belt Beach retains a natural feel while still providing good amenities.
The Wanquan River is widely regarded as Hainan's most beautiful river, flowing 163 kilometers through lush tropical landscapes before reaching the sea at Bo'ao. The scenic area around the river offers visitors multiple ways to experience its beauty, from boat cruises to riverside cycling paths. The upper reaches of the river wind through dense tropical forest, while the lower sections broaden into serene waterways lined with coconut palms, rice paddies, and traditional villages.
Boat cruises are the most popular way to explore the river, with options ranging from motorized tour boats to traditional bamboo rafts. The 2-3 hour cruise takes you past riverside temples, fishing communities, and some of Hainan's most picturesque scenery. For more active visitors, kayaking and paddleboarding are available in the calmer sections. The riverside area around Bo'ao has been developed with walking and cycling paths, making it easy to explore at your own pace. Keep an eye out for the diverse birdlife along the banks.
The Bo'ao Buddhist Temple, also known as Bo'ao Zen Temple, is a striking religious complex located on the Longgun River near the Bo'ao Forum venue. The temple's architecture is breathtaking, featuring golden-tiled roofs, intricate carvings, and a massive Guanyin (Goddess of Mercy) statue that rises above the tree line. The temple's location, where three rivers converge before flowing into the sea, is considered highly auspicious in Chinese feng shui tradition.
Visitors can explore the main prayer halls, meditation rooms, and beautifully landscaped gardens. The temple is an active place of worship, so you may witness monks performing ceremonies or devotees making offerings. The peaceful atmosphere, enhanced by the sound of bells and chanting, provides a contemplative respite from the more tourist-oriented attractions in the area. From the temple grounds, there are excellent views of the river confluence and the distant South China Sea. Photography is permitted in most areas, though visitors are asked to be respectful during prayer times.
The Red Women's Army Memorial in Qionghai commemorates one of the most famous military units in Chinese revolutionary history. Formed in 1931, the Red Women's Army was an all-female Communist guerrilla unit that fought against Nationalist forces in Hainan. Their story was immortalized in the groundbreaking 1961 ballet "The Red Detachment of Women" and a popular film, making them household names across China. The memorial complex includes a museum, sculptures, and preserved historical buildings.
The museum's exhibits tell the compelling story of these remarkable women through photographs, personal belongings, weapons, and documents. Visitors learn about the army's formation, major battles, and the sacrifices made by its members, many of whom were teenagers. The exhibits also provide context about the broader revolutionary struggle in Hainan and the unique role women played. The memorial serves as both a tourist attraction and a patriotic education site, drawing school groups from across China.
Jiangdi Village, located in the mountainous interior of Qionghai, is famous for its stunning terraced rice fields that cascade down the hillside like giant steps. These ancient terraces, some dating back hundreds of years, represent a remarkable feat of agricultural engineering and create one of Hainan's most photogenic landscapes. The village offers an authentic glimpse into rural Hainan life, far removed from the coastal tourist areas.
The terraces change appearance dramatically with the seasons: flooded and mirror-like in spring before planting, lush green in summer, golden during harvest in autumn, and resting under the tropical sun in winter. The best time to visit is during the planting season (March-April) or harvest (September-October) when the terraces are at their most photogenic. Walking trails wind through the fields and village, where you can interact with local farmers, sample home-cooked meals, and purchase local products. The drive to Jiangdi Village is itself scenic, passing through tropical forest and offering views of the surrounding mountains.
By Air: The nearest airport is Haikou Meilan International Airport (HAK), about 100 km from Qionghai. From Haikou, take a high-speed train to Bo'ao Station (40 minutes) or a direct taxi (1.5 hours, approximately ¥300).
By High-Speed Train: Bo'ao Railway Station serves Qionghai on the Hainan East Ring High-Speed Railway. From Haikou East: 40 minutes (¥35). From Sanya: 1.5 hours (¥75). The station is about 15 km from the city center and Bo'ao area, with taxis available.
By Bus: Regular buses run between Qionghai and Haikou (2 hours, ¥30), Sanya (2.5 hours, ¥50), and Wenchang (1 hour, ¥15).
By Car: Driving from Haikou takes about 1.5 hours via the G98 expressway. The route passes through scenic countryside. Car rentals are available at Haikou airport.
Getting Around: Local buses connect the main attractions, but a taxi or rental car is more convenient. E-bike rentals are popular for exploring the Bo'ao area. Many hotels offer shuttle services to the forum venue and Jade Belt Beach.