The area around Tongzha is home to some of China’s most diverse ethnic groups, many of whom reside in small villages along the route between Haikou and Sanya.

Two minority groups currently inhabit Hainan, based largely around the highland area and the central part of this tropical island. Anthropologists estimate that approximately one million Li people live on Hainan and trace their history back to 2000BC. The Li (literally translated as “top knot” due to the style of the men’s hair), arrived here from Guangxi province, gradually displacing the aboriginals on the island and forming their own unique culture with tunnel shaped houses and shamanitic religious practices. Li and Miao women have a particularly interesting history, renowned for their vivid tattooed faces decorated with geometric patterns.

The villages along the main highway between Hainan’s main cities are nice places to stop off and experience some of this unique culture. Fortunately, things here have not yet become too kitch or naff and this is a good way to see some local customs including dance performances and singing, although it has all been made more “tourist friendly” for the benefit of travelers.

How to get there:There are over a dozen villages dotted along the expressway between Haikou and Sanya. There is little difference between each one so it is best just to pick a few. Take a long distance bus (RMB5) from Haikou to Sanya. It takes about four hours to reach the village complex.
Opening hours:Daily 8am-8pm
Cost:RMB10 per “village”