Wuzhizhou Island
1. Introduction
Wuzhizhou Island is located within Haitang Bay in the northern part of Sanya City, Hainan Province. It faces Nanwan Monkey Island to the north and is adjacent to Yalong Bay, renowned as the "Number One Bay under Heaven," to the south. The island is 2.7 kilometers from the coastline, covers an area of 1.48 square kilometers, and has an irregular butterfly shape, stretching 1400 meters from east to west and 1100 meters from north to south. It is 30 kilometers from downtown Sanya and 38 kilometers from Phoenix Airport, situated conveniently close to the Haikou-Sanya Expressway, offering an excellent location and easy transportation access. Wuzhizhou Island is one of the few islands around Hainan with freshwater resources and rich vegetation, boasting over two thousand diverse plant species.
Located in the tropics, Wuzhizhou Island experiences a tropical maritime climate characterized by long sunshine hours, high average temperatures, minimal annual temperature variation, and indistinct seasons. The island features diverse landforms, including cliffs, steep rock faces, beaches, sand spits, sea-eroded cliffs, and submarine rocky platforms. Due to its remote location, the island was largely uninhabited in ancient times. During the Guangxu period of the Qing Dynasty, a nunnery named "Haishang Hansan Guan" was built here to worship Cangjie. After the decline of the Qing Dynasty, the nunnery gradually fell into disrepair and was later converted by local fishermen into a Mazu Temple.
Wuzhizhou Island is home to numerous scenic spots such as Lovers' Bridge, Golden Turtle Exploring the Sea, Sunrise Rock, and Seaview Promenade. It also offers over 30 land and sea sports activities, including diving, jet skiing, and wind tunnels, creating a comprehensive three-dimensional (land, sea, and air) marine entertainment experience. Furthermore, located 500 to 1000 meters offshore, China's first tropical marine ranch has been established, fostering a thriving marine ecosystem with native coral colonies, sea anemones, sea cucumbers, large groupers, parrotfish, moray eels, and various other marine life.
In 2013, director Feng Xiaogang filmed scenes for his annual New Year comedy film "Personal Tailor" on Wuzhizhou Island.
2. Geographical Environment
Wuzhizhou Island is conveniently located near the Hainan East Line Expressway, offering excellent accessibility. Visitors can reach the island via "Shuishang Piao," China's largest hovercraft capable of carrying 70 passengers. The island enjoys a tropical maritime climate with mild and pleasant weather year-round, making it an ideal destination for vacationing, leisure, escaping the cold, winter swimming, and entertainment. The eastern and southern parts feature the island's highest peak at 79.9 meters above sea level, with sheer cliffs and rugged rocks below where crashing waves create snowy sprays. The terrain gradually flattens towards the west and north, revealing a crescent-shaped beach with fine, white sand.
The coastal rocks are jagged and steep, plunging directly into the sea, creating a spectacular sight with waves crashing against the shore. The central area consists of undulating hills, forests, and grasslands with lush greenery. The northern shore boasts calm waves and a beach of pure white, fine sand, resembling a naturally formed jade belt.
3. Main Attractions
3.1 Wuzhizhou Island Teahouse
During the Guangxu era of the Qing Dynasty, a wandering Taoist priest named Wu Huacun traveled throughout the islands of Hainan seeking a place for alchemy and self-cultivation. He was ultimately captivated by the feng shui of Wuzhizhou Island and wished to build a hut and settle there. Upon learning of this, Zhong Yuandi, the then-prefect of Yazhou, visited the island. Struck by its beauty and exceptional feng shui, he believed such a treasure should benefit the public rather than an individual. He halted Wu's plans, and the prefecture raised funds to build a nunnery on the island named "Haishang Hansan Guan," dedicated to Cangjie, the legendary creator of Chinese characters—a rare dedication that marks a significant chapter in Hainan's cultural history. The nunnery was built in 1893, over a century ago. Today, this red building exudes historical charm and has become a favored spot for tea appreciation.
3.2 Lovers' Bridge
Lovers' Bridge, a key filming location for the New Year film "Personal Tailor," was originally a chain-link bridge serving as a maritime lookout post for the island garrison. Crossing the swaying bridge required courage and agility. Some young women, eager to experience the lookout point but afraid of falling into the sea, would tightly hold their friends' hands while crossing, leading to the bridge's playful nickname, "Lovers' Bridge." Later, for visitor safety, the original chain-link bridge was replaced with the current wooden plank bridge. It remains a highly sought-after spot for couples.
3.3 "Personal Tailor" Freshwater Pool
In 2013, Sanya's Wuzhizhou Island entered the public spotlight through its collaboration with Feng Xiaogang's annual New Year comedy blockbuster "Personal Tailor." Starring Ge You, Bai Baihe, Li Xiaolu, Zheng Kai, and featuring comedy stars like Fan Wei, Song Dandan, and Wang Baoqiang, the film garnered significant attention upon release.
As one of the major outdoor filming locations for "Personal Tailor," Wuzhizhou Island won praise from the film crew and stars for its unique tropical scenery and charming pure island resort ambiance. It was specifically chosen by Director Feng as an "important filming site." The freshwater pool beside the island's Pirate Bar is a turquoise oasis nestled between the blue sky and coconut groves. The white, bird's nest-like structure at the pool's edge, set against bougainvillea, blue sky, the clear pool, and swaying coconut shadows, creates an exceptionally serene and tranquil atmosphere. The "Dream Fulfillment Company Office" within the Wuzhizhou Island scenic area has become a dream destination for countless tourists, and "Wuzhizhou Island Personal Tailor" has become synonymous with Hainan's tourism itineraries and products.
3.4 Sunrise Rock
Sunrise Rock is located on the southeastern cliffs of Wuzhizhou Island. Standing on the rock overlooking the sea, one can enjoy a panoramic view of the entire island and the vast South China Sea. Below the cliffs lie jagged and bizarre rocks. During calm seas, a speedboat tour around the island reveals these strange rock formations. Sunrise Rock itself resembles a giant natural stone Buddha facing the sea, practicing day and night. The dawn of the new century rises from here, with the crimson sun slowly ascending from the sea, creating a stunning seascape for sunrise viewing. Overnight guests wishing to see the sunrise can inquire about the exact time at the hotel front desk.
3.5 Golden Turtle Exploring the Sea
Below Sunrise Rock on the southeastern part of Wuzhizhou Island lies a naturally formed giant rock resembling a massive sea turtle, with its head and shell clearly discernible. Particularly noteworthy is a long, strip-like rock protruding from the sea in front of the left side of the main boulder. When waves crash against it, it looks as if the turtle is paddling with its flippers, creating a vivid, dynamic scene. It appears as if a giant turtle, longing to return to its homeland, is slowly crawling towards the ocean, hence the name "Golden Turtle Exploring the Sea."
3.6 Lovers' Island
Lovers' Island refers to two large rocks that have withstood centuries of tides yet still stand tall, silently facing each other. Legend has it they were named to commemorate a pair of devoted lovers whom an angry Dragon King turned into stone. Today, it is a major attraction on Wuzhizhou Island and a favorite spot for young couples to whisper sweet nothings and listen to the waves.
3.7 Seaview Promenade
On the western side of Wuzhizhou Island, a wooden walkway and platform have been constructed along the coastal terrain. Walking along the promenade offers views of the island's crystal-clear waters. This area has many reefs, making it common to see crabs "walking" on them. With luck, visitors on the platform might also spot schools of tropical fish.
3.8 Wedding Photography
The slightly salty sea breeze, azure sky, gradient-colored seawater, and uniquely shaped natural reefs combine to form a dream wedding photography location. On the actual filming sites of "Personal Tailor" and the endless stretches of pristine white sand, newlyweds embrace affectionately or run joyfully. On Wuzhizhou Island, couples in various wedding attire freely display their happiness and sweetness for the camera. As an outdoor photography location for mid-to-high-end wedding photography studios in Sanya, Wuzhizhou Island has gained significant attention from couples and become a top choice for wedding photoshoots.
3.9 Travel Portraits
On Sanya's Wuzhizhou Island, the natural scenery is refreshing, the air is clean, and the sunshine is bright. Numerous tourists take photos at various scenic spots across the beach—by the shore, among coconut groves, at Lovers' Bridge, and beside the freshwater pool—capturing individual, couple, friends, and family portraits.
3.10 Island Weddings
Hosting a romantic island wedding is undoubtedly the childhood dream of most brides. The blue sky, azure sea, floating white clouds, and pure white sand inherently exude romance and eternal beauty without any decoration. Moreover, the seaside backdrop provides a perfect platform for various creative wedding themes, with "ocean-themed" weddings remaining perpetually popular.
4. Entertainment Activities
4.1 Entrance Ticket + Round-trip Boat Ticket (136 RMB/person)
Round-trip boat ticket plus entrance ticket.
4.2 Island Player (1399 RMB/person/24 hours)
Includes: Priority boarding/disembarkation channel, entrance & boat ticket, Coral Hotel island buffet lunch, Fun Dive package, Sea Walker, Haitang Tour, Parasailing, Mini Flying Fish, Happy Beach package (1 hour), Dynamic Flyer, Jet Ski, Semi-submersible sightseeing boat, Platform fishing, Big Flying Fish, Banana Boat, Leisure GO, Beach lounge chair, Land surfing, Fish spa, Swimming ring, Freshwater shower, Locker, etc.
4.3 Extreme Sports (1880 RMB/person/24 hours)
Includes: Entrance & boat ticket, Coral Hotel buffet lunch, Island sightseeing bus, Advanced diving, Sea Walker, 260 High-speed Jet Ski, 3D Trick Boat, Powerboard, Flyboard, Dynamic Flyer, Big Flying Fish, Mini Flying Fish, Banana Boat, Waterskiing, Sailing, Speedboat self-drive, Parasailing, Water mat, Haitang Tour, Dynamic Submarine, etc.
4.4 Diving Propulsion Vehicle (350 RMB/person/30 minutes)
Visitors simply hold the propulsion device, press the button, and can navigate freely on the water surface, controlling the direction themselves.
4.5 Sea Walker (260 RMB/person/20 minutes)Strolling on the seabed at a depth of 3-5 meters, there are artificially constructed handrails. Visitors only need to wear a glass helmet to walk along the handrails on the seabed, enjoying the view of reefs and abundant fish schools along the way. Throughout the process, they can breathe freely and wear glasses.
4.6 Coral Snorkeling (¥198/person/25 minutes)
This activity involves snorkeling with a small propeller, guided by a professional instructor. Free equipment such as small propellers, masks, snorkels, and fins are provided. The diving platform also offers unlimited beverages and snacks for guests.
4.7 Reef Diving (¥429/person/30 minutes)
Reef diving is a nearshore diving experience, starting from the seaside with a depth of 3–6 meters. Participants can observe underwater reefs, corals, and schools of tropical fish.
4.8 Coral Reef Diving (¥580/person/30 minutes)
Coral reef diving is conducted from a floating platform at sea, with depths ranging from 3 to 12 meters. The underwater scenery is well-preserved, featuring abundant corals and tropical fish. The dive progresses from shallow to deep, making it suitable for first-time divers.
4.9 Fun Dive Package (¥698/person/35 minutes)
This package is no longer limited to individual activities but integrates all existing projects, connecting various diving sites. Designed as an underwater challenge, the playtime increases as the route becomes more diverse and engaging. Upon completing specific tasks, participants can earn a Lionfish Certificate.
4.10 Advanced Diving (¥1,180/person/60 minutes)
This advanced program integrates all existing projects, linking various diving sites. Designed as an underwater challenge, the playtime increases with the richness and fun of the route. Upon completing specific tasks, participants can earn a Shark Certificate.
4.11 Jet Ski (¥179/person/10 minutes)
Accompanied by a professional instructor, the visitor drives in front while the instructor ensures safety from behind without interfering, allowing a free and secure exploration of the island scenery.
4.12 Jet Ski Island Tour (¥380/person/30 minutes)
Accompanied by a professional instructor, the visitor drives in front while the instructor ensures safety from behind without interfering, allowing a free and secure exploration of the island scenery.
4.13 Platform Fishing (¥180/person/1 hour)
Transported by speedboat to a sea platform, participants are provided with fishing rods and bait, accompanied by a professional fishing coach.
4.14 Yacht Fishing (¥380/person/1 hour)
Participants go fishing on a fishing boat, with fishing gear, bait, and floats provided.
4.15 Speedboat Fishing (¥200/person/2 hours)
Participants go fishing on a fishing boat, with fishing gear, bait, and floats provided. Complimentary mineral water is included, and one child under 1.4 meters can join for free. All edible, non-ornamental fish caught during the activity can be taken home for free.
4.16 Semi-Submersible Sightseeing Boat (¥260/person/30 minutes)
Through fiberglass windows, participants can observe underwater corals and tropical fish schools.
4.17 Banana Boat (¥100/person/10 minutes)
A banana-shaped rubber raft that can seat 2–8 people, towed by a jet ski.
4.18 Parasailing (¥320/person/10 minutes)
A speedboat slowly lifts the parasail into the air, reaching heights of over 20 meters. Each person can touch the water 1–2 times. Weight requirement: 80–200 pounds.
4.19 Small Flying Fish Boat (¥260/boat/10 minutes)
Can accommodate 2 people.
4.20 Large Flying Fish Boat (¥180/person/10 minutes)
Can accommodate 3–6 people.
4.21 Dynamic Speedboat (¥200/person/10 minutes)
Capable of gliding, drifting, and performing 360-degree turns on the water.
4.22 Dynamic Submarine (¥280/person/15 minutes)
Capable of gliding, drifting, and performing 360-degree turns on the water. Can also submerge underwater.
4.23 Olympic Sailing Tour to Wuzhizhou (¥280/person/30 minutes)
A professional Olympic-level captain personally sails the boat, taking guests on a tour of Haitang Bay.
4.24 Small Sailboat (¥180/person/30 minutes)
A small catamaran sailboat with no external power, relying solely on wind for propulsion.
4.25 Powered Surfboard (¥380/person/20 minutes)
Equipped with an internal power system, no external towing required. Steering handles are located on both sides of the board for safety and reliability. Despite the added power, the board’s thickness and volume remain unchanged, allowing it to glide freely in shallow waters over 30 cm deep.
4.26 Haitang Tour (¥200/person/30 minutes)
A sea sightseeing product that tours the national coastal area of Haitang Bay and Wuzhizhou Island, circling the island.
4.27 Water Jetpack (¥200/person/20 minutes)
This device lifts the operator above the water by ejecting high-pressure water downward, enabling high-difficulty and flashy maneuvers. The activity is guided by a coach.
4.28 Water Skiing (¥230/person/10 minutes)
Water skiing involves the skier standing on skis and being towed by a motorboat to glide on the water surface.
4.29 Sea & Sky Flight (¥380/person/15 minutes)
A single-person operated jet-powered flying device that uses water jet propulsion to lift and propel the user into the air.
4.30 Surfboard Surfing (¥150/person/10 minutes)
Conducted in a one-on-one coaching and protection mode. Participants can stand, kneel, or lie on the surfboard, using bellyboards, kneeboards, or rubber mats to ride the waves.
4.31 Beach Children’s Park (¥60/person)
Entry time: 10:00–16:30. Unlimited playtime mode, with a complimentary 10-minute remote-controlled boat experience upon entry.
4.32 Happy Beach Package (¥180/person/60 minutes)
Includes transparent kayaks (single, double, triple/20 minutes/boat), water bicycles (double, triple/20 minutes/boat), and electric boats (20 minutes/boat). Unlimited playtime for these activities within one hour.
4.33 Indoor Skydiving (¥280/person/1 session)
This product uses Aerodium’s international top-tier wind tunnel equipment, generating wind speeds exceeding 260 km/h to allow participants to fly. Guided by a professional coach.
5. Historical Background
The earliest records of Wuzhizhou Island date back to the Qing Dynasty. During the Guangxu era of the Qing Dynasty, a wandering Taoist named Wu Huacun traveled across the islands of Hainan in search of a place for alchemy and self-cultivation. Upon seeing the picturesque scenery and majestic landscape of Wuzhizhou Island, he decided to settle there for alchemy and self-cultivation. This came to the attention of the then-prefect of Yazhou, Zhong Yuandi, who went to inspect the island. Impressed by its beauty and favorable Feng Shui, he believed such a treasure should not be privately owned but should benefit the people. He halted Wu’s plans, and the local government funded the construction of a temple on the island named "Sea View of the Three Realms." It was dedicated to Cangjie, the legendary creator of Chinese characters—a rare practice in China, leaving a significant mark in Hainan’s cultural history.
The temple was built in 1893, over 100 years ago.
After liberation, the island was requisitioned by the People’s Liberation Army as a key strategic defense area. Under conventional warfare conditions, its strategic location was crucial, serving as a frontline defense position. The Korean War in the 1950s, military confrontations with the Taiwanese Kuomintang government in the 1960s, and the Vietnam War in the early 1970s kept the island shrouded in a wartime atmosphere.
According to recollections from military personnel at the time, high-powered telescopes on the mountaintop could even observe activities on U.S. Seventh Fleet vessels in international waters. Over the 30 years following liberation, the military constructed extensive underground defense facilities on the island, totaling 4 kilometers in length.
By the 1990s, peace and development became global themes, and with advancements in modern warfare technology, the island lost its strategic significance. The military subsequently withdrew, opening a new chapter for Wuzhizhou Island as a vacation and leisure destination.
In October 2016, it was rated as a National AAAAA Tourist Attraction.
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