Haikou: 3H Dad Tea Themed Bus & Qilou Old Street Guided Walk

Traveling through Haikou offers a chance to slow down and savor its unique blend of modernity and tradition. This 3-hour experience, combining a Dad Tea-themed bus ride and a guided stroll along Qilou Old Street, promises a relaxed dive into local flavors, history, and architecture. It’s designed to give visitors an authentic, unhurried glimpse of Haikou’s culture without the rush.

What makes this tour particularly appealing are three things: the moving teahouse experience that combines scenic views with local snacks, the chance to taste iconic Hainan dishes like Wenchang chicken and taro rice, and the insightful guided walk through one of Haikou’s most historic neighborhoods. A possible downside? The timing and pace might feel a bit slow for travelers seeking a more fast-paced sightseeing blitz. However, this tour is best suited for those who want to truly soak in the ambiance, enjoy local cuisine, and learn about Haikou at a gentle, unhurried pace.

Key Points

• Unique transportation experience aboard a moving teahouse with local snacks
• Delicious local dishes like Wenchang chicken and taro rice included
• Passes iconic landmarks such as Clock Tower and Century Bridge
• In-depth guided walk through historic Qilou Old Street
• Relaxed pace perfect for cultural appreciation and photo opps
• Multilingual guides available in Chinese, English, Russian, French, and Spanish

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

The Dad Tea Bus: A Moving Cultural Snack Bar

The star of this tour is undeniably the Dad Tea bus, a specially designed sightseeing vehicle that doubles as a moving teahouse. With its large panoramic skylight, it offers clear views of Haikou’s streets and landmarks while providing a cozy, intimate setting. Inside, there’s a bar area and a small stage, which, depending on the departure, might feature live performances or excerpts of Qiong Opera. The atmosphere is relaxed with soft music, creating an environment perfect for soaking in the scenery and chatting with fellow travelers.

What makes the bus experience stand out is the curated Dad Tea set. Guests are served a variety of local Hainanese dishes, with some reviews mentioning shredded Wenchang chicken, steamed eggs with sea snail, stuffed tofu made with Hainan black pork, and farmhouse-style taro rice. The dishes change daily, offering a fresh taste of home-style cooking that reflects the region’s culinary heritage.

Traveling through the city, you’ll pass notable landmarks like the Clock Tower, which offers a glimpse into the city’s colonial past, and the Century Bridge, a modern structure connecting different parts of Haikou. The gentle pace of the bus ride allows plenty of time to enjoy the views and absorb the city’s vibe, making it more than just a transportation method—it’s a moving cultural experience.

Guided Walk through Qilou Old Street

After the bus ride, the tour continues with a guided walk along Qilou Old Street, a historic neighborhood built in the early 20th century. Here, the architecture is a charming mix of Nanyang and Lingnan styles, characterized by covered arcades that line the streets. The relaxed pace means you can truly appreciate the intricate details of the arcades, facades, and street life, which all tell stories of Haikou’s past as a busy maritime trade hub.

The guide shares stories about the overseas Chinese who settled here, the city’s role in maritime commerce, and the daily life of old Haikou residents. This storytelling adds layers of context, transforming a simple stroll into an engaging history lesson. Several reviews mention how the guide’s insights make the neighborhood come alive, providing a window into the living history of the area.

Practical Details and Logistics

The meeting point is at Jiexin Park on Qilou Old Street (coordinates 20.044811248779297, 110.3420181274414). The tour is approximately 3 hours long, split evenly between the bus ride and walking tour. It’s offered as a private group, with guides speaking multiple languages including Chinese, English, Russian, French, and Spanish—making it accessible to a broad range of travelers.

Booking is flexible; you can reserve now and pay later, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Punctuality is key, as the bus departs promptly, and late arrivals may miss the experience. If your preferred time slot is full, alternative options or a visit to a local Dad Tea House can be arranged.

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What Travelers Say: Authentic Insights

Based on reviews, travelers appreciate the authentic local experience and the slow, immersive approach. One comment highlights how the scenic views and local snacks made the bus ride memorable, describing it as a “charming way to see Haikou without rushing.” Others have noted the friendly, knowledgeable guides who bring the neighborhood’s stories to life, making the walk feel more like visiting a friend’s old town.

Some reviews mention that the pace is gentle, making it ideal for those interested in culture and history without the pressure of rapid sightseeing. The inclusion of local music and occasional performances adds a charming touch, further enriching the atmosphere.

Why This Tour Is a Great Fit

This experience is perfect for culture lovers who want a more authentic, relaxed view of Haikou. It’s especially suited for those interested in local cuisine, history, and architecture, and for travelers who appreciate slow travel that allows for meaningful engagement rather than ticking off quick sights.

While it might not satisfy someone looking for a fast-paced or highly energetic tour, it delivers a genuine taste of Haikou’s day-to-day life and historic charm. The focus on local food, storytelling, and scenic views makes this a well-rounded introduction to the city’s soul.

Who Should Book This Tour?

• Travelers interested in local culture, food, and history
• Visitors seeking a relaxed, unhurried experience
• Those who enjoy guided walks and storytelling from knowledgeable locals
• Anyone curious about Haikou’s architecture and landmarks from a comfortable vantage point
• Families or groups wanting a private, flexible experience

FAQs

How long is the entire tour?
The tour lasts about 3 hours, split evenly between the bus ride and walking tour.

What languages are available for the guides?
Guides speak Chinese, English, Russian, French, and Spanish, making it accessible for international travelers.

Where do I meet for the tour?
The meeting point is at Jiexin Park on Qilou Old Street, with precise coordinates provided.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable clothing and shoes are advised for walking, and it’s good to have sun protection or an umbrella depending on the weather.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, ensuring mobility isn’t a barrier to enjoying the experience.

What if the bus time I want is fully booked?
You will be offered the next available slot or an alternative visit to a local Dad Tea House.

Are the dishes served on the bus vegetarian?
The dishes mentioned include Wenchang chicken and other local favorites, so they are not vegetarian. Special dietary needs should be communicated in advance.

Can I bring children?
The tour is suitable for most ages, especially those with an interest in culture and culinary traditions. Check in advance for specific age restrictions if needed.

This 3-hour Haikou tour offers a beautifully balanced glimpse into the city’s soul, blending scenic transportation, authentic cuisine, and cultural storytelling. It’s ideal for travelers who prefer a gentle pace and meaningful engagement over hurried sightseeing. The Dad Tea bus stands out as a charming, comfortable way to see the city from a unique perspective, while the guided walk through Qilou Old Street provides a tactile connection to Haikou’s past.

If you’re seeking a well-rounded, authentic experience that combines food, history, and local life without feeling rushed, this tour delivers. It’s especially valuable for those who want to understand Haikou beyond its surface, savoring every moment at a relaxed, insightful pace.

Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or simply someone looking to soak in the local flavor, this tour deserves a spot on your Haikou itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: