Luhuitou Park
Sanya, Hainan
At the top of Luhuitou Mountain, south of Sanya, Luhuitou Park (“deer look back”) was named after a traditional love story. It's the only mountaintop park near Sanya and offers spectacular views over Sanya and the South China Sea, making it a popular destination for sunset.
The basics
Spanning 205 acres (83 hectares), Luhuitou Park sits atop the 902-foot (275-meter) Luhuitou Mountain. Paths wind their way to the peak, where a giant sculpture of a deer can be found. Visitors can walk up to the peak or take a shuttle bus to enjoy the panoramic views. Additional attractions include an observation deck, several terraces, a deer park, slides, and demonstrations of Li minority singing and dancing. The park is included on many Sanya sightseeing tours, though it’s also easy to visit independently.
Things to know before you go
There’s a fee to access the park. The shuttle bus to the top also requires a fee. Don’t forget your camera; the park offers stunning views over Sanya and the region. The park offers cafes, shops, and vending machines. Red coconut is a region's specialty and can be purchased at kiosks around the park.
How to get there
The park is on the Luhuitou peninsula, around 3 miles (5 kilometers) south of Sanya. If you’re not visiting as part of a tour, taxiing to the park is easiest. You can also take bus number 3 or 22 to the park. Once at the park, you can walk to the top or take a paid shuttle bus.
When to get there
Sunset is the most popular time to visit Luhuitou Park. Expect the park to be most crowded from late afternoon to nighttime when it also offers excellent views of Sanya lit up with lights. The park offers other attractions and can be visited at any time. November to March is the best time to visit Sanya for the most pleasant weather.
The legend behind the park’s name
According to a Li minority legend, a tyrant once forced a young man to hunt deer. During his hunt, he chased a deer for nine days and nights until it came to a cliff. The deer then looked back and transformed into a beautiful girl. The pair fell in love and, with the help of the girl’s family, defeated the tyrant. For this reason, Sanya is also known as “Deer City.”
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