As someone who has traveled across five continents and explored countless ancient cities, I, Michael Zhang, have always believed that the soul of a destination often hides within its oldest mountains and seas. Over the years, I’ve focused on studying history, culture, and in-depth travel routes, and I’m especially drawn to places that balance striking natural landscapes with centuries of cultural memory. This guide takes you into Daxiao Dongtian, one of Sanya’s most historically rich attractions and long praised as the “most beautiful coastal mountain scenery in Hainan over the past 800 years.” Whether you love culture, dramatic natural views, or simply want a serene moment by the South China Sea, this travel guide will help you enjoy an experience worth remembering.

Summary

Daxiao Dongtian Introduction

Daxiao Dongtian, officially known as the Nanshan Daxiao Dongtian Tourism Area and historically called Aoshan Daxiao Dongtian, spans 22.5 square kilometers. The area follows the theme of “blessed Taoist land and coastal wonders,” featuring Taoist culture, longevity traditions, and South Sea Dragon mythology. It blends wedding photography spots, educational experiences, and coastal activities, and it is recognized as a China 5A-rated scenic attraction.

In 1022, Northern Song Dynasty Prime Minister Ding Wei was exiled to Nanshan and brought Taoist culture to this land, marking nearly a thousand years of history. During the Southern Song Dynasty, local governors Zhou Kang (1187 AD) and Mao Kui (1247 AD) further developed Nanshan based on Taoist concepts. For more than 800 years, the site has been praised as “Hainan’s most famous mountain-and-sea attraction for eight centuries, and the finest coastal wonder along the 3,000-li South Sea.”

  • Address: Yazhou District, Yacheng, Sanya ( Apple Maps / Amap )
  • Opening Hours: 8:30–17:30
  • Suggested Visit Duration: 3–5 hours
  • Best Season: All year
  • VR Tour: Click to Experience
  • Ticket Price: Free with reservation; on-site reservations available. You can purchase a ticket with an electric shuttle (28 CNY). The shuttle isn’t essential, but without it, you’ll walk 3 km; seniors may prefer to ride.
  • Ticket + Shuttle Package: Trip.com Discounts
Daxiao Dongtian scenic gate with sea view

Daxiao Dongtian Map

Layout map of Sanya Daxiao Dongtian Scenic Area

Why You Should Visit Daxiao Dongtian

Taoist Culture and Historical Depth

The scenic area follows the concept of a “Taoist blessed land,” featuring cultural relics such as Song-dynasty cliff inscriptions and the South Sea Dragon King’s retreat. The “Xiaodongtian” inscription, written by Southern Song prefect Mao Kui, remains a key symbol of Southern Taoism.

Unique Natural Landscapes

  • Coastal Wonders: The ancient Nanshan Immortal Pine (estimated age 5,300 years) and dragon blood tree clusters (around 6,000 years old) symbolize long life. Rocky shores, a lighthouse, and dramatic sea-eroded formations offer striking views.
  • Ecological Diversity: Tropical rainforest, coral reefs, and sandy beaches coexist within the area, creating a rich and varied coastal ecosystem.

Top Things to Do in Daxiao Dongtian

Main Attractions

Nanhai Fumen

Located at the foot of Aoshan and facing the vast South China Sea, Nanhai Fumen stands as the signature gateway of Daxiao Dongtian and one of the most photographed Taoist-inspired landmarks in Sanya. The two towering structures face each other like open palms lifting the sky, expressing the Taoist idea of seeing the greater world through something small. From the sea, the paired gates look like they rise from the water, mirroring each other in harmony and symbolizing good fortune, beauty, and unity. As the true “first scene” of the scenic area, the gate blends Taoist heritage with traditional Chinese symbolism, and it has quickly become a popular wedding photoshoot location in Sanya. Many visitors say that their first glimpse of the gate feels like stepping into a blessed space—hence the local saying: “Walk through the gate and good fortune opens.”

Nanhai Blessing Gate at Daxiao Dongtian

Sanya Natural History Museum

The Sanya Natural History Museum is one of the most academically valuable and educational spaces in Daxiao Dongtian. Inside, you’ll find more than two thousand rare paleontology and native Hainan species specimens, with over 800 of them classified as national treasures. Key exhibits include the Jehol Biota fossils, praised by UNESCO as “one of the most astonishing discoveries of the 20th century”; the world’s first known flower, Liaoning Ancient Fruit; the early avian species Confuciusornis; and the museum’s iconic highlight, the Sanya Pterosaur.

Sanya Natural Museum fossil exhibition

Xiaodongtian

Xiaodongtian is a striking coastal formation shaped by thousands of years of ocean erosion. Jagged rocks rise sharply from the shoreline, creating a natural space that looks like a cave yet not quite a cave. The inner area measures around 20 square meters, reaching a depth of 28 meters. As the ancient saying goes, “A place that seems like a cave but not a cave is where immortals dwell.” In the Southern Song Dynasty, local governor Mao Kui—an admirer of Taoist philosophy—discovered the site while exploring Nanshan and declared it a blessed Taoist land. He carved the characters “Xiaodongtian” at the entrance, making the site famous ever since. Notably, this is the only Taoist sacred site in China that directly carries the name ‘Dongtian’, giving it exceptional cultural importance.

Xiaodongtian rock cave landmark

Tang Dynasty Monk Jianzhen

Daxiao Dongtian also shares a meaningful connection with Master Jianzhen, the Tang Dynasty monk who made six attempts to travel to Japan to spread Buddhist teachings. According to legend, he passed through this part of the South China Sea during his long and difficult journey, pausing at Nanshan to teach and gaze across the southern waters. His perseverance, faith, and calm vision resonate with the Taoist spirit of “following the natural way,” which is deeply rooted in this landscape. Today, within the scenic area, Jianzhen’s legacy symbolizes the harmony of Confucianism, Buddhism, and Taoism. Many travelers walking along the Nanshan coast say they can feel a quiet strength and sense of distance that seem unique to this place.

Statue of Tang Dynasty monk Jianzhen

Daxiao Dongtian Ticket Guide

Daxiao Dongtian is free to enter, but visitors must make a reservation, and same-day reservations are available on-site. You may also purchase a combined ticket that includes admission plus an electric shuttle ride (28 CNY; free for children under 1.2 meters). If you are not pressed for time, the shuttle is unnecessary. Walking the 3 km path is quite manageable and offers pleasant scenery along the way. Keep in mind that shuttle lines can be long—often around 30 minutes—which may reduce the overall experience. However, I recommend the shuttle for seniors, as it can make the visit significantly easier.

Ticket Package Purchase Channels

  • Online: Official WeChat account, third-party booking platforms.
  • Offline: Ticket office at the Visitor Center.

Daxiao Dongtian covers a large area, and the following route works well. If you don’t plan to hike, you can finish the visit in about three to four hours:

  • Nanhai Fumen (similar to Bali’s Gates of Heaven) → Tang Dynasty Monk Jianzhen → Lighthouse → Aoshan (optional hike, about 1.5 hours to reach the summit) → Xiaodongtian → Laozhi Gazing at the Sea Sculpture → Xiaoyue Bay
    • Aoshan Hiking Route: Xiaodongtian → Longevity Stone Stele → Nanshan Immortal Pine → Calligraphy by Guan Shanyue → Longevity Bridge → Immortal Steps → Dadongtian → Sword-Testing Peak → Golden Summit [Summit] → Viewing Pavilion → Occupying the Ao Head → Tree-and-Stone Bond → Cliff Pavilion → The Way of Nature
  • Tips
    • It’s very close to Nanshan Temple. You can visit both in one day by going to the temple early in the morning, then coming here afterward.
    • If you have enough time, hiking Aoshan is worthwhile. The route stays interesting, though it does require some stamina.
    • If you’re short on time, taking the sightseeing shuttle is better. It saves both energy and time.
    • The beach here is quite rough, so it’s not ideal for walking barefoot on the sand. Still, it has its own kind of beauty.

There are several restaurants near the entrance and exit of Daxiao Dongtian, including McDonald’s, Chinese restaurants, and small drink shops. You can easily grab a simple meal here, with budget options around 15 CNY per person. If you want a more satisfying meal, it’s better to head toward downtown Sanya or Tianya Town.

Local noodle dish at Daxiao Dongtian restaurant

If you prefer to stay near Daxiao Dongtian, consider staying in Sanya Bay. Sanya Bay mainly offers budget-friendly hotels, some of which are older, but the location is excellent. It’s close to Sanya Phoenix Airport and major attractions. The seawater quality is average, making the area best for travelers catching early flights, students, or visitors with modest accommodation needs. Nearby attractions include the Nanshan Cultural Tourism Zone, Tianya Haijiao, and Daxiao Dongtian. For more detailed suggestions, see the Sanya Hotel Guide.

Mangrove Tree Resort World Sanya Bay (Buddha Tower)

Mangrove Tree Resort World Sanya Bay (Buddha Tower)
  • Location: Sanya Bay
  • Price per night: from 250 CNY
  • Check Rates: Trip.com Specials
  • Rating: Trip 9.1
  • Special Amenities: Outdoor pool, kids’ playground, family rooms

Centrally located in the city with convenient access to dining and shopping. The resort features lush tropical gardens and Southeast Asian–inspired landscapes, creating a relaxing and exotic vibe.

Rooms are spacious and thoughtfully designed, each with a large balcony and great views. Clean and quiet with good soundproofing, the hotel also offers many on-site facilities for leisure.

Ocean Sonic Resort Sanya

Ocean Sonic Resort Sanya
  • Location: Sanya Bay
  • Price per night: from 449 CNY
  • Check Rates: Trip.com Specials、Compare on Klook
  • Rating: Trip 9.3
  • Special Amenities: Outdoor pool, gym, kids’ playground, family rooms, 6-person and 8-person suites

Perfectly located in the center of Coconut Dream Corridor, just steps from the beach and sea. Only about a 15-minute drive from the airport, with plenty of restaurants and shops nearby — ideal for both vacations and family trips.

Facilities are complete, rooms are spacious and clean, and breakfast is plentiful. A great choice for family stays.

Crowne Plaza Resort Sanya Bay

Crowne Plaza Resort Sanya Bay
  • Location: Sanya Bay
  • Price per night: from 479 CNY
  • Check Rates: Trip.com Specials、Compare on Klook
  • Rating: Trip 9.3
  • Special Amenities: Outdoor pool, gym, kids’ playground, family rooms

Just a short walk to the beach, with convenient access to the airport, West Island, and Nanshan Temple. It’s a popular option for family trips.

Ocean-view rooms feature wide, open views of the sunset and Coconut Dream Corridor. The rooms are equipped with thoughtful details like dehumidifiers and children’s amenities.

Wyndham Sanya Bay

Wyndham Sanya Bay
  • Location: Sanya Bay
  • Price per night: from 515 CNY
  • Check Rates: Trip.com Specials、Compare on Klook
  • Rating: Trip 9.6
  • Special Amenities: Outdoor pool, gym, kids’ playground, family rooms, 6-person suites

Ideally located near the beach within walking distance, surrounded by shops and restaurants. Very convenient for travelers.

Facilities are comprehensive and well-maintained. Rooms are bright, spacious, and comfortable, featuring soft bedding and clean, modern bathrooms with separate wet and dry areas. The hotel also offers many family-friendly activities, making it an excellent choice for parents with children.

Four Points by Sheraton Hainan Sanya

Four Points by Sheraton Hainan Sanya
  • Location: Sanya Bay
  • Price per night: from 531 CNY
  • Check Rates: Trip.com Specials、Compare on Klook
  • Rating: Trip 9.1
  • Special Amenities: Outdoor pool, gym, kids’ playground, family rooms

Excellent location, just a short walk to the beach. Surrounded by complete amenities and easy transportation options.

Though the facilities are a bit dated, they’re well-maintained, and the overall quality of stay remains very comfortable.

How to Get from Downtown Sanya to Daxiao Dongtian

Daxiao Dongtian is a bit far from the city center, so taking a taxi is the most convenient option. Buses take around two hours, which can be tiring. Although taxis cost more, rides in Sanya are still reasonably priced.

Public Bus

Take Bus No. 5, 30, 125, or Yazhou Bus No. 6 to the “Daxiao Dongtian” stop. From there, walk about eight minutes to the main entrance. The full trip takes around two hours and costs about 10 CNY.

Taxi / Ride-hailing

A taxi from downtown Sanya to Daxiao Dongtian takes about one hour and costs around 90 CNY.

FAQ

Is Daxiao Dongtian suitable for strollers and wheelchairs?

Yes. Except for the hiking areas, the paths in the scenic zone are smooth, and you’ll find rest spots along the way.

Where can I store luggage at Daxiao Dongtian?

You can store luggage for free at the Visitor Center. There are also paid lockers available nearby.

Essential Sanya Travel Resources