Tianya Haijiao

Tianya Haijiao, also be interpreted as The Edge of the Sky and The End of the Sea, means the remotest corner of the earth, is undoubtedly Sanya's most famous scenic spot and the highlight for almost every visitors. Not only for the spectacular beaches and expansive ocean view, but its outstanding title and rich history, for its title is a set phrase in Chinese that brings profound poetic allusions with. In the past, the phrase was suggesting an unattainable place. From Song to Qing Dynasty, Officials out-of-favour with emperor were banished here due to the remoteness of the cape from Beijing.

Located about 20 km west of Sanya City, the cape is a perfect harmonization of nature's palette, with bleached white sands, turquoise seas, deep blue skies and lush green hills. Rising over the beach is an ancient rock formation inscribed with Chinese characters meaning "The Edge of the Sky" written by Chengzhe, the chief magistrate of Yazhou Prefecture in the Qing Dynasty. Another inscription nearby reads "The End of the Sea".

There is a romantic Romeo and Juliet story about these two stones. In ancient times, two young lovers eloped when their parents disapproved of their marriage. Unfortunately, when they arrived in Hainan, agents, sent by their parents, were also there. Facing the sea, they had no escape. They were so sad that they just held each other as they jumped into the sea. Suddenly, there was a thunderstorm. They were hit by lightning and changed into two stones, with the agents turned into many smaller stones around. Now people regard these two stones as symbols of eternal and faithful love. Because of this beautiful and romantic story many young lovers choose this place for their wedding ceremony.

Besides the stones, modern facilities can be found such as a Shopping Center, the Li Ethnic Group Village and a Celebrity Sculpture. An international wedding festival is celebrated in Tianya Haijiao every year. Around the Mid Autumn Day, there is a Lantern Festival, which adds to the special atmosphere.

Tianya Haijiao is a heaven for people who are head over heals in love, and also an ideal place for people who are deeply in love with the sea. You will definitely have fond memories after visiting this scenic spot.