Sanya: Nanshan Temple and Xiaodongtian Day Trip with Lunch

Planning a day out in Sanya? This tour offers a balanced mix of spirituality, natural beauty, and cultural insight, all wrapped in a comfortable package. We’ve looked into it thoroughly to give you the real scoop on what to expect and what makes this experience worth considering.

What we love about this tour: First, the chance to see the impressive 108-meter Guanyin statue, which is an awe-inspiring sight. Second, exploring the Nanshan Buddhist Cultural Garden and its ancient-style buildings offers both tranquility and a glimpse into Buddhist traditions. Third, the visit to Xiaodongtian presents stunning sea-eroded landscapes and cultural landmarks, all with plenty of photo-worthy moments.

A potential downside? The tour involves quite a bit of walking, so it might not be suitable for those with mobility issues or very young children. Still, for anyone interested in nature, culture, and scenic views, this trip ticks many boxes. It’s best suited for curious travelers who want an authentic experience beyond just lounging on the beach.

Good To Know

• Impressive Landmark: The Guanyin of the South China Sea is a must-see icon, offering breathtaking views and photo opportunities.
• Cultural Richness: The Nanshan Cultural Garden and Tang Dynasty architecture provide insight into Chinese religious history.
• Tasty Vegetarian Meal: The buffet lunch at the temple is a highlight, especially for vegetarians or those seeking healthy local cuisine.
• Scenic Beauty: The Xiaodongtian Scenic Area features dramatic coastal erosion, lush tropical vegetation, and intriguing cultural landmarks.
• Comfortable Experience: The tour includes hotel pickup and a private group setting, making for a convenient and personalized day.
• Cost-Effective: At $216, this full-day experience offers a lot of value, combining transportation, guided tours, meals, and entry fees.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Detailed Review of the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

Your day begins with a hotel pickup in Sanya, which is a major convenience. The tour operator handles the logistics, so you don’t have to worry about navigating or arranging transport. The vehicle is typically comfortable, and the private group setting ensures a more personalized experience than large tour buses.

Timing and Pacing

The entire day lasts about 9.5 hours, starting early at 8:00 AM. This allows for a relaxed pace, giving you enough time at each stop to truly enjoy the sights without feeling rushed. The itinerary is structured into three main stops, with ample time to explore, take photos, and soak in the atmosphere.

Nanshan Buddhist Cultural Garden

This stop is the highlight for many. It’s home to the largest Buddhist temple in southern China, showcasing traditional Tang Dynasty architecture. Expect to see iconic structures such as the Main Hall, Buermen Gate, and the Eight Treasures Lotus Pond. The star here is undoubtedly the 108-meter Guanyin statue, which stands gracefully overlooking the ocean. Its size and serene expression make it an impressive sight. One reviewer shared that the statue’s sheer scale “blows your mind,” and you can walk around to get different angles for photographs.

The garden itself is peaceful, and the blend of natural scenery with ancient architecture offers a contemplative experience. Guides often share stories behind the sculptures and temples, enriching your understanding.

Vegetarian Buffet Lunch

A major plus of this tour is the included vegetarian buffet at the temple. It’s not just a quick snack; it’s a substantial and thoughtfully prepared meal. Many reviews highlight that the food is delicious, with fresh ingredients and a variety of dishes that cater to different tastes. This is an excellent choice if you’re vegetarian or simply want a healthy, flavorful meal amidst your sightseeing.

Xiaodongtian Scenic Area

Post-lunch, the tour moves to the Xiaodongtian Tourist Area, established during the Southern Song Dynasty. This region boasts stunning sea-eroded landforms—think towering cliffs carved over millennia by the relentless ocean—paired with lush tropical plants.

Here, you’ll find notable cultural landmarks like cliff carvings such as “Xiaodongtian” and “Sea and Mountain Wonders.” The South China Sea Dragon King and Laozi statues stand out as symbols of local mythology and Taoist philosophy. Reviewers mention the spectacular ocean views as a major draw, with some saying they “could sit for hours watching the waves crash below.”

Strolling through coconut groves and sandy beaches, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to relax or take photos. The scenery is often described as “breathtaking,” especially at high tide when the sea crashes against the eroded cliffs.

Cultural and Natural Balance

This part of the tour combines natural scenery with cultural insights, providing a well-rounded experience. Some reviews note that the scenic landscape makes it much more than just a sightseeing stop — it’s a chance to appreciate the incredible forces of nature and historical human culture working together.

Practical Details

Duration and Group Size

At 9.5 hours, the tour is lengthy but well-paced. The private grouping means you’re not stuck with strangers and can ask questions at your pace. This is especially helpful for capturing photos or lingering at favorite spots.

Cost and Value

Priced at $216 per person, this tour covers transportation, a guided experience, entry fees, and lunch. Considering all these elements, it offers good value for the comprehensive experience it promises. The inclusion of a meal instead of paying separately is a bonus, especially when traveling with dietary preferences like vegetarian.

Accessibility and Suitability

The tour involves a fair amount of walking around large outdoor sites, so comfortable shoes are a must. It’s not suitable for wheelchair users or travelers over 75, as indicated. The early start and full day may also be tiring for some, but most find it worth the effort given the sights.

Authentic Insights from Past Travelers

One review notes, “The views at Xiaodongtian are unlike anything I’ve seen before. The erosion patterns are just mesmerizing.” Another mentions that the guide was knowledgeable and friendly, making the experience more engaging. Many appreciate the early start for avoiding crowds and catching the best light for photos.

Some travelers mention that the vegetarian buffet exceeded expectations, describing it as “fresh, tasty, and filling,” which was a pleasant surprise for those worried about vegetarian options. Others highlight the peaceful atmosphere of the Nanshan garden as a perfect escape from the busy city.

Final Thoughts

This day trip from Sanya offers an enriching blend of spiritual sights, stunning coastal landscapes, and cultural sites. It’s particularly suited for travelers who appreciate natural beauty, enjoy cultural landmarks, and want a relaxed, guided experience. The combination of impressive statues, ancient architecture, and scenic coastal eroded formations makes for memorable photographs and authentic insights.

While it might be a long day and involves some walking, the convenience of hotel pickup, private group setting, and inclusive lunch make it a hassle-free way to explore some of Hainan’s most meaningful sites. The tour offers solid value, especially if you’re eager to combine cultural learning with natural scenic beauty in a single day.

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FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in this tour?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup from your accommodation in Sanya. The guide will contact you in advance to confirm the details.

How long does each stop last?
The itinerary is structured to give you around 2 hours for the Nanshan Cultural Garden, and about 1 hour each for Xiaodongtian and other scenic stops, allowing ample time for exploration and photos.

What’s included in the price?
The $216 covers transportation, a guided tour in both Chinese and English, entry fees to the various sites, and a vegetarian buffet lunch.

Is there any physical activity involved?
Yes, some walking is required at each site, especially around the gardens and scenic areas, so comfortable shoes are recommended.

Can I visit if I have mobility issues?
This tour is not suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility limitations, as it involves extensive walking over uneven terrain.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection, water, comfortable shoes, and a camera. It’s also good to have some cash for souvenirs or snacks outside the provided lunch.

The Sum Up

This Sanya day trip offers a well-rounded experience that balances cultural depth with natural beauty, making it a fantastic choice for travelers eager to see more than just beaches. The stunning Guanyin statue and the Xiaodongtian coastal landscapes are truly memorable, providing perfect photo ops and moments of reflection.

For those interested in Chinese spiritual sites, scenic coastal views, and authentic cultural landmarks, this tour packs a lot into one day. It’s especially suitable for nature lovers and curious travelers wanting a meaningful, guided adventure away from the hustle of city life.

While it’s not a fit for everyone—particularly those with limited mobility—the combination of convenience, value, and richness of sights makes this a worthwhile addition to your Sanya itinerary. Expect a day filled with beautiful vistas, cultural stories, and peaceful moments to cherish.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby