Tianya Haijiao [Photo/english.aitianya.cn]

In ancient times, Qiong Island (present Hainan) was a barren and desolate area with few inhabitants. It took even a bird half a year to get there. With poor communications, the island was very difficult to reach and became a place of exile for officials who had betrayed the rulers of the feudal dynasties. People arriving here found themselves in a place with no roads in or out and felt helpless, crying "this is truly the end of the Earth".

The famous Song Dynasty (960-1279) official and poet Hu Quan (1102-1180) bemoaned "There are only ten thousand miles to the end of the earth and these withered weeds make me full of sorrow". "Travel one thousand miles and it's hard to go back", so says the Li Deyu, a poem written by a Tang Dynasty (618-907) prime minister. Through this poem, he revealed his sorrow at the tragic destiny awaiting exiled officials.

The experiences of these men of letters describe what eventually became one of China's most magical tourist spots. Here, the bluish green ocean blends into the sky as if they were one. Misty waves, spots of sails, swinging coconut trees and exotic stones all come together to form a picturesque landscape. Giant rocks inscribed with "End of the Skies", "Corner of the Sea" and "Giant Pillar in the South China Sea" standing on the shore are a part of the rare scenery of Hainan. The whole area is full of poetic charm. 

Scenic Spot level: AAAA

Ticket price:

Tourist season: 100 yuan ($15.12) per person

Tourist off-season: 85 yuan

Tel: +86-898-88910131

Transportation Guide:

Bus: No 6, 16, 21, 24,25, 26, 29

The Rocks of Sun and Moon [Photo/english.aitianya.cn]

Tianya Haijiao [Photo/english.aitianya.cn]