On the evening of June 1, Hainan revealed its “Top 10 Tourism Calling Cards” to over 300 international travel trade representatives during the “Hainan Night" at the Overseas Tour Operators Hainan Tour 2026.

Participants at the event

Photo provided by the Department of Tourism, Culture, Radio, Television and Sports of Hainan Province

The launch not only introduced Hainan to the world but also marked a new beginning for stronger collaboration between the province and international travel partners. The initiative reflects Hainan’s efforts to enhance and globalize its tourism brand, taking advantage of the opportunities offered by the Hainan Free Trade Port (FTP) following its launch of special customs operations.

Participants at the event

Photo provided by the Department of Tourism, Culture, Radio, Television and Sports of Hainan Province

Since the beginning of special customs operations, policy benefits such as visa-free entry for citizens of 86 countries, increased air traffic rights, and island-departure duty-free shopping have continued to grow. From January to April this year, Hainan received 691,600 overnight inbound visitors, a 51.4% increase year-on-year, and inbound tourism revenue rose to US$508 million, up 73.4%. Additionally, Hainan has set up 46 overseas tourism promotion offices worldwide, creating a global tourism marketing network.

The strategy of introducing “Top 10 Tourism Calling Cards” to international tour operators with strong visitor networks aims to turn Hainan’s tourism resources and policy benefits into stories and products that are simple for international audiences to grasp, enjoy, and share.

Top 10 Tourism Calling Cards of Hainan

Top 10 Tourism Calling Cards of Hainan. (Photo: Official WeChat account of the Department of Tourism, Culture, Radio, Television and Sports of Hainan Province)

1. Tropical Island Scenery and Year-Round Warm Climate

Hainan Island, China’s tropical paradise, covers 33,900 square kilometers of land couched in around 2 million square kilometers of surrounding sea, 1,944 kilometers of coastline, 10 iconic bays, seven nearshore islands, and 4,269 square kilometers of tropical rainforest.

The province enjoys a pleasant climate year-round, with an average temperature of around 25°C. Winters generally range from 18°C to 22°C, while summer temperatures in the central rainforest area usually fall between 25°C and 28°C.

2. World-Class Ecological Environment

Hainan is often seen as China’s most ecologically intact province. Its forests, covering 62.1% of its land area, serve as habitats for over 3,500 plant species and more than 600 rare animal species.

The province records excellent air quality on 99.4% of days annually, while negative ion levels in the central mountainous area surpass 10,000 per cubic centimeter. Hainan’s marine water quality remains above 99% at excellent standards, and its drinking water quality also exceeds WHO guidelines.

3. One of China’s Most Favorable Visa-Free Policies

Hainan currently provides visa-free entry for citizens of 86 countries and also enables visitors from many other countries to take advantage of China’s 240-hour visa-free transit policy.

International visitors can easily reach Hainan via major Chinese gateway cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Kunming. Additionally, Hainan is connected to 43 cities in 25 countries, as well as the Hong Kong and Macao SARs, through 78 international and regional passenger routes.

4. Rich Historical and Cultural Heritage

Human activity in Hainan can be traced back over 10,000 years. The Li ethnic group, whose ancestors migrated from Chinese mainland, has inhabited the island for more than 3,000 years, developing a distinctive culture that includes Li brocade, a UNESCO-recognized intangible cultural heritage.

The famous Song Dynasty scholar Su Dongpo also spent three years in Hainan, where he established cultural landmarks such as the Dongpo Academy. Today, the island still celebrates a vibrant mix of maritime culture, folk traditions, and historical heritage that continue to thrive.

5. Internationally Recognized Healthcare and Wellness Services

The Boao Lecheng International Medical Tourism Pilot Zone is China’s only nationally designated medical tourism pilot area, benefiting from exclusive policies that permit the early use of internationally approved medicines and medical devices.

Lecheng has so far introduced 540 international medicines and medical devices to the Chinese market, partnered with 39 global medical institutions, and helped launch 22 innovative medical products using real-world data.

Visitors have access to a wide range of healthcare services, including management of chronic diseases, specialist treatments, anti-aging therapies, rehabilitation, and premium health checkups.

6. A Globally Renowned Shopping Paradise

Hainan hosts nine island-departure duty-free shopping centers that encompass over 1,000 international brands.

International visitors can enjoy the benefits of offshore duty-free shopping policies and departure tax refunds, greatly lowering their shopping expenses. In addition to luxury items, they can also explore traditional Chinese brands, intangible cultural heritage products, and modern Chinese lifestyle brands.

7. Distinctive Marine and Sports Tourism

Hainan has established a well-developed coastal tourism industry, featuring 21 marine-themed A-level tourist attractions and five coastal tourism resorts at the national and provincial levels. Visitors can partake in activities such as surfing, diving, sailing, yachting, and recreational fishing.

Meanwhile, the island’s tropical rainforest regions also provide hiking, luxury camping, and rainforest exploration. Coupled with lively nighttime tourism options, these attractions enable year-round vacation experiences.

8. Inspiring Space Tourism Experiences

Wenchang International Aerospace City features one of the few coastal rocket launch sites worldwide. Visitors can view rocket launches up close and engage in interactive experiences such as aerospace science programs, virtual reality space adventures, and simulated rocket launches.

Wenchang's blend of advanced space technology and tropical island scenery makes it especially appealing for family vacations and educational trips.

9. Two Scenic Tourism Highways Linking Coast and Rainforest

The Hainan Coastal Scenic Highway extends for 988 kilometers around the island, linking some of Hainan’s most beautiful coastal scenery and featuring service stations, viewing platforms, and campsites.

Meanwhile, the Hainan Tropical Rainforest National Park Tourist Highway stretches 466 kilometers through rainforest areas, traditional villages, and rural countryside.

Together, the two routes provide excellent conditions for self-driving tours, cycling adventures, and leisurely immersive travel experiences.

10. Safety and Outstanding Value for Money

Hainan is widely recognized as a safe place to travel, boasting a stable social atmosphere and friendly local communities.

Hainan provides a comprehensive array of high-quality vacation experiences at a relatively competitive price compared to many traditional island destinations. It attracts over 6.5 million overnight inbound visitors and exceeds 100 million domestic tourist visits each year, highlighting its reputation as a safe and cost-effective tourism destination.