Haikou Transport Guide: How to Get Around the City

Getting around Haikou is simple, even if it is your first time visiting. The city is well planned, roads are clear, and transport options are easy to understand. You can move around using public buses, taxis, ride hailing apps, and the city rail system. If you arrive by plane, train, or ferry, getting into the city is straightforward and affordable. In this guide, I will share the easiest and most budget friendly ways to travel around Haikou, so you can focus on enjoying your trip without stress.

Haikou Airport Transfers

Arriving at Haikou Meilan International Airport is smooth and well organised. Clear signs and official transport options make it easy to reach the city.

🚌 Airport Shuttle Bus

• Fare: Around ¥20
• Travel time: 40–60 minutes
• Runs from early morning until late night
• Best for budget travelers who want a direct ride

🚌 Public City Bus

• Fare: ¥2–6
• Travel time: 60 minutes or more
• Daytime and evening service
• Best for light travelers, can be crowded at peak hours

🚄 Airport Train Connection

• Fare: ¥10–20
• Travel time: 10–20 minutes to Haikou East Station
• Fast and comfortable if your hotel is near a station

🚖 Taxi

• City center: ¥40–60
• Nearby areas: ¥20–30
• Travel time: 25–40 minutes
• Tip: Show your hotel name in Chinese

🚗 Hotel Transfer or Private Car

• Cost: Free or paid, depending on hotel
• Travel time: 30–40 minutes
• Tip: Check availability with your hotel in advance

Haikou Urban Rail and High-Speed Train

Haikou does not have a subway-style metro system. Instead, the city uses urban rail services and the Hainan Island high-speed railway to connect the airport, major stations, and nearby cities. The trains are clean, air-conditioned, and easy to use, making them a convenient option for first-time visitors, especially if your hotel is near a railway station.

🛤️ Key Stations in Haikou

Some of the most useful railway stations for travelers include:

Haikou East Railway Station

• Main high-speed rail hub in the city
• Convenient for travel to Sanya, Wenchang, and other cities in Hainan

Haikou Meilan International Airport

• Direct railway access inside the airport
• Easy connection between the airport and city stations

Haikou Railway Station

• Serves some long-distance and cross-strait routes
• Useful for ferry-linked rail travel to mainland China

If your accommodation is close to any of these stations, the train can save time and avoid road traffic.

⏱️ Operating Hours and Frequency

• Trains generally run from early morning until late evening
• Frequency varies by route, usually every 10 to 20 minutes for busy sections
• Schedules may change slightly on public holidays

You usually won’t need to wait long, especially during the day.

💳 Tickets and Payment

• Short trips within Haikou: around ¥10–20
• Intercity trips within Hainan: higher, based on destination
• Buy tickets at station counters, ticket machines, or official railway apps
• Payment accepted: cash (CNY), Alipay, WeChat Pay

⚠️ Things to Note

• This is not a full metro network, so stations are spaced farther apart than subways in larger cities
• You may need a short taxi or bus ride from the station to your hotel
• Last trains usually run before midnight, so late-night travel may require a taxi

Public Buses in Haikou

Taking the public bus is one of the easiest and cheapest ways to explore Haikou. If you want to save money and experience the city like a local, the bus is a good choice.

🚍 Routes and Fare

Haikou’s bus network covers most parts of the city, including:

• Downtown Haikou – shopping areas, local markets
• Haikou East Railway Station – for high-speed train connections
• Haikou Meilan Airport – airport buses available
• Tourist spots – Evergreen Park, Arcaded Streets, Hainan Museum
• Local neighborhoods and universities

Standard Fare

• Most routes cost ¥1 to ¥2 per ride (around PHP 8–15)
• Express or longer-distance routes may cost up to ¥5 (about PHP 35)

You can check the route number and destination at the bus stop sign. Bus stops usually show route maps and schedules.

💳 How to Pay for the Bus

You have a few ways to pay:

• Cash: Exact change only. Drivers do not give change
• Transportation card (Hainan Tong Card): Tap when boarding
• Mobile payment: Alipay or WeChat Pay on supported buses

✅ Good to know

• Stations are farther apart than metro systems, so a short taxi or bus ride may still be needed
• Last trains usually run before midnight, so late-night travel may require a taxi

Sightseeing Buses in Haikou

If you’re visiting Haikou for the first time, the sightseeing bus is an easy and relaxed way to see the main attractions without planning every stop.

🗺️ How It Works

These hop-on hop-off buses follow a fixed route that covers many of Haikou’s most popular tourist spots. You can get off at any stop, explore, and then hop back on the next bus using the same ticket.

• Just one ticket for unlimited rides that day
• Great way to move around if you’re not familiar with the area
• Buses come with recorded guides or signage in Chinese (some may have English audio or printed maps)

⏱️ Route and Duration

• Full loop: about 60–70 minutes
• Stops near Evergreen Park, Arcaded Streets, Century Bridge, Holiday Beach, and Hainan Museum
• Pick-up points in downtown areas and near large hotels

Routes, stops, and operating hours may change by season or local arrangements. Check the latest information at the ticket counter or official city tourism platforms before boarding.

🌃 Night Sightseeing Tour

Haikou also has open-top night buses that take you around the city after dark. These are perfect if you want to enjoy the lights, bridges, and coastal views in a calm setting.

• Night tours usually take around 45 to 50 minutes
• Great way to cool down and enjoy the breeze after a warm day
• Some routes may pass through Haikou Bay, Century Park, and lit-up shopping areas

🎟️ Ticket Info

• Sold near boarding points or via Alipay and WeChat
• Day and night tours require separate tickets
• Prices are affordable, especially for families or groups

Hotel Free Shuttle Bus in Haikou

Some large hotels and resorts in Haikou offer free shuttle buses for guests, usually connecting the airport, nearby shopping areas, railway stations, and selected attractions. Availability and routes vary by hotel, so it’s best to check with the hotel in advance.

🏨 Common Hotels with Shuttle Buses

Hotels such as The Ritz-Carlton Haikou, Mission Hills Resort, and Wyndham Garden Haikou are known to provide shuttle services. Pick-up points are usually located near the hotel lobby or main entrance.

🟢 Key Things to Know

• Shuttle buses are usually free for hotel guests
• Some hotels may allow non-guests to ride if seats are available, but this is not guaranteed
• Always check with hotel staff first before boarding
• Routes commonly include shopping areas, parks, resorts, and transport hubs
• Shuttle frequency varies by hotel and time of day, especially during busy hours

📍 Good For

• Travelers with luggage
• Visitors staying in resort or hotel areas
• Anyone looking for a convenient ride to nearby transport hubs or attractions

Taxis and Ride-Hailing in Haikou

Taking a taxi in Haikou is a simple and comfortable way to get around, especially if you are carrying luggage, arriving late at night, or traveling with a group. It is faster than public transport and easy to use for visitors.

💰 Haikou Taxi Fare Guide

There are two common options: regular street taxis and ride-hailing through apps like Didi.

1. Standard Taxis (Blue or Yellow Cars)

• Base fare: ¥10 for the first 3 kilometers (around PHP 80)
• After 3 kilometers: ¥2 per kilometer
• Waiting time: ¥1 every few minutes if the car is not moving
• Luggage: Usually free unless you have oversized bags that need the trunk

2. Didi Ride-Hailing App

• Works like Grab
• You can choose from regular, comfort, or carpool rides
• Prices may be slightly higher during busy times
• You can use the app in English and pay with card or mobile wallets

3. Extra Charges

• Some trips starting from the airport or train station may include an extra charge of ¥5 to ¥10
• Check the estimated fare before you ride, especially during peak hours

🚖 How to Get a Taxi in Haikou

• Hail one on the street by raising your hand
• Go to a taxi stand near malls, hotels, or stations
• Use the Didi app to book a ride without needing to speak Chinese

Tip: Download the Didi app before your trip. Choose English in the settings and link your card or Alipay account for easy payment.

Always ensure the meter is turned on. Avoid accepting rides from unofficial drivers inside the terminal.

✅ When to Take a Taxi

• When public buses are not running or hard to find
• If you have lots of luggage or are tired
• When traveling with two or more people
• To reach places far from the city center or tourist areas

Private Transfer in Haikou

Private transfers offer a comfortable and stress-free ride, ideal for families, groups, or travelers with large luggage. Drivers provide door-to-door service from the airport, train station, or other locations directly to your hotel.

Good to know

• Book at least 24 hours in advance
• Meet-and-greet and luggage help may be included
• More expensive than taxis, but more convenient for first-time visitors

Exploring Haikou on Foot

Haikou is a relaxed and walkable city, especially around the old town, parks, and coastal areas. Many attractions are close together, making walking a budget-friendly way to enjoy the scenery, take photos, and discover local snacks at your own pace.

🏛️ Suggested Walking Routes in Haikou

1. Old Town Culture Walk (2 to 3 hours)

Route: Qilou Old Street → Zhongshan Road → Arcade Streets → Haikou Clock Tower → People’s Park
Tip: Look for the unique colonial-style buildings along Qilou Street. Try local coconut desserts or rice cakes at small shops nearby.

2. Coastal and Nature Walk (2 to 3 hours)

Route: Evergreen Park → Century Bridge (walkable area) → Haikou Bay → Holiday Beach
Tip: Go in the late afternoon for cooler weather and sunset views. Street vendors often sell cold drinks and snacks near the beach area.

3. History and Market Walk (3 to 4 hours)

Route: Hainan Museum → Wugong Temple (Five Officials Temple) → Haikou Arcade Street Market → Renmin Avenue
Tip: Visit early in the morning or after 4 PM to avoid strong heat. Bring a small fan or umbrella for shade. Local markets are great for pasalubong shopping.

Haikou can be hot and humid, especially from April to October. Walk early in the morning or after 4 PM for better comfort.

Traveling from Haikou to Other Cities

One of the best things about visiting Haikou is how easy it is to travel to nearby cities in Hainan or even to mainland China. Whether you want to explore tropical beaches or visit larger cities, you have a few good options by train, bus, or ferry.

🚄 Haikou to Sanya

Sanya is a famous beach city in the south of Hainan Island. It is a popular weekend destination with beautiful beaches, resorts, and seafood.

• By high-speed train: About 1.5 to 2 hours from Haikou East Railway Station
• Trains run often from early morning until evening
• Tip: Book a window seat to enjoy the scenic views along the coast

🚌 Haikou to Wenchang

Wenchang is a smaller city northeast of Haikou known for its Hainanese chicken rice and space launch center.

• By train: About 30 to 40 minutes
• By bus or car: Around 1 to 1.5 hours
• Tip: Try the local-style chicken rice in the city center for a food trip

🛳️ Haikou to Mainland China (via ferry or train)

You can also travel from Haikou to mainland cities like Guangzhou or Zhanjiang. These trips usually take longer but offer a unique travel experience.

• By ferry to Guangdong: Some ferries connect Haikou’s ports to cities like Zhanjiang
• By train: Haikou Railway Station also has trains that cross the Qiongzhou Strait using a rail ferry
• Travel time: Usually 8 to 12 hours, depending on the destination
• Tip: Overnight trains are more convenient if you want to save on hotel costs

📱 Useful Transport Apps in Haikou

To make getting around easier, download these apps before arriving:

1. Didi

Best for taxis and private rides. Easy to use in English and ideal if you don’t speak Chinese.

2. Baidu Maps or Amap (Gaode)

Baidu Maps

Amap (Gaode)

More accurate than Google Maps in China. Useful for bus routes, walking directions, and travel time estimates.

3. Alipay (Transport QR)

Lets you pay for buses and some transport services without cash. Very convenient for daily travel.

📌 Tip: Set up mobile payment before your trip, as many transport services prefer cashless payment.

Many drivers and transport services prefer mobile payment. Set up Alipay or WeChat Pay in advance if possible.

🎯 Getting Around Haikou Made Easy

Plan your routes early and combine different transport options to make the most of your trip. Use public buses or hotel shuttles for short and cheap rides. Choose taxis or private cars if you have luggage or arrive late at night. For relaxed sightseeing, take a walk through parks, beaches, or the old town. With a little planning, moving around Haikou becomes part of the fun and not just a way to get from place to place.