Sunday, May 3, 2026

Where is the easternmost point of Hainan Island for tourism? What are its specialties?

Where is the easternmost point of Hainan Island for tourism? What are its specialties?

See the original Chinese Version of this essay.

The easternmost point of Hainan Island is located in Wenchang. Because the terrain of Hainan Island twists slightly eastward, the easternmost point and the northernmost point are not far from each other, both within the boundaries of Wenchang. If we think of the nearby Wenchang Space Launch Center as the "highest" place — figuratively, of course, because rockets are launched into the sky there — then the easternmost, northernmost, and "highest" points are all clustered together. So, if you visit this area, you might consider exploring its surroundings to take in the local features and specialties.

The easternmost point of Hainan Island is called Tonggu Point. Some also refer to it as Jiaoluotou, but the two locations are quite close, and according to the map, Tonggu Point lies slightly further east. The name "Tonggu Point" seems to be connected to the nearby Tonggu Ridge, known as the tallest mountain in northern Hainan and rich in ecological resources. On Tonggu Ridge, there is a famous "wind-shifting rock." Tonggu Point itself is surrounded by rocks, and the boundary between land and sea here is not a sandy beach but jagged rocks. Not far away, there is a park called Stone Park, designed for ordinary visitors to admire these strange rocks by the sea. Stone Park is also one of the best spots to watch rocket launches. However, as the easternmost tip of Hainan Island jutting out into the sea, Tonggu Point is too rugged, with rocks dangerously weathered and prone to falling. It is not recommended as a sightseeing or recreational destination.

In fact, the name "Tonggu" (bronze drum) of Tonggu Ridge and Tonggu Point has historical significance. Bronze drums were generally used in ancient warfare to boost morale and direct troop formations, and they have been unearthed in various parts of China. According to legend, the bronze drum at Hainan's easternmost point belonged to the army of General Ma Yuan of the Eastern Han Dynasty (known as "General Fubo"). When it was unearthed here, the surrounding area came to bear the name "Tonggu." With this history in mind, the wind blowing over Hainan's easternmost point seems to carry a solemn, military grandeur. General Fubo's reputation has endured, and he is commemorated in several places across Hainan Island.

Although Tonggu Point is rocky, a bit further north you will find several nice beaches. Viewed from Tonggu Ridge, these beaches offer a beautiful landscape. With the establishment of the Wenchang Satellite Launch Center, this area has become even more famous. The completion of the Puqian Bridge has greatly improved transportation around northeastern coastal Hainan and brought more visitors to the region.

The nearest town to Tonggu Point is Longlou Town, which has a distinct Wenchang character — for example, local "Old Dad Tea" and fresh seafood, thanks to the coast. If you make a trip to Tonggu Point, the easternmost point of Hainan Island, there are plenty of places worth exploring nearby. And if your visit coincides with a rocket launch, you can experience the awe-inspiring power of a launch firsthand. 

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