Wuzhi Mountain and Li Villages

Background

Wuzhi Mountain lies in central Hainan Island in Qiongzhong Li and Miao Autonomous County, next to Wuzhishan City but outside that city's administrative area. The main peak rises about 1840 metres (another figure gives 1867 metres), and five connected summits form the shape of a hand. The slopes are tropical rainforest, with streams and waterfalls, including a very tall waterfall on the north side of the first peak; the summit is wrapped in cloud for much of the year. The surrounding area is mostly home to the Li people, with some Miao villages as well. The Li boat-shaped houses and Li brocade weaving are their best-known traditions. The third day of the third lunar month is a traditional festival of the Li and Miao: people put on their finest clothes and drink, sing and dance outdoors, and young people also take the chance to look for a partner.

Local customs

• Take an easy hike along the rainforest trails to see streams and waterfalls and look out at the main peak from the viewpoints
• after coming down, visit a Li village to see boat-shaped houses and brocade weaving, and taste bamboo-tube rice and shanlan rice wine
• from July to October you can try canyon rafting.

Travel tips

• The round trip to the summit is long and physically demanding, so go within your ability and start early
• check the official information for tickets and opening hours. The rainforest is slippery and misty, so wear non-slip shoes and bring rain gear and drinking water
• going up early in the morning gives you a better chance of a sea of clouds.
• From Haikou, take a coach to Wuzhishan City, transfer to Shuiman Township and take a taxi to the scenic area
• from Sanya, you can ride directly to Shuiman and then take a taxi. November to April is the best time for climbing, and July to October is the canyon rafting season
• summers are rainy and winters are mild.