Tourists Flock to Haikou’s Qilou Old Street Market for Local Food, Crafts, and Culture

Published on November 25, 2025

One of the most energetic locations to experience the blend of culture and nature in Haikou and to experience the authentic charm of the province is the Qilou Old Street and its morning market. Every morning, the market revitalises the street and showcases every aspect of the local culture and numerous culinary delights. Arcades that hang overhead offer plenty of history and shade and shelter, while the rich culture of the island is on display in food and products offered.

As the sun rises, the market and street come alive. Local fishermen showcase the day’s catch while the smells of the famous, and market visitors have to try fried shrimp cakes, fill the air. Street vendors offer sizzling delicacies and other locals set up stalls with a variety of Hainanese products. The morning market of Qilou is the place to experience the local culture of the island.

Qilou Old Street: A Historical Centre for Residents and Tourists

Among the many places in the city of Haikou, the Qilou Old Street is one of the most recognised due to its historical and colonial architecture, the rich culture of Hainan, and its fully packed commercial activities. The style is a curious mix of European and Chinese with arcade buildings lining the street. The Qilou Old Street consists of all the modern conveniences and attractions, and many people visit for the the vintage feel.

The last few years have seen significant and extensive renovations to the Qilou Old Street area with the hopes of modernization, of new conveniences and attractions for visitors, while retaining its historical value. The cultural marketplace best integrates the old with the new, fully modernising the market, but preserving many of the old cultural practices.

The Morning Market: A Feast for the Senses:

In the mornings, there is a market set up in the old street called Qilou. This market is a sight to behold, attracting both local residents as well as foreign tourists. While walking through the street market, customers will notice the bright colours of the fresh produce, hear the sounds of the various vendors, and smell the traditional dishes of Hainan.

One of the main highlights, and best-selling foods, of the market is the freshly made fried shrimp cakes. These cakes are crispy, golden, and made from fresh shrimp imported directly from the island along with a special blend of spices, wheat, and freshly made shrimp oil. These cakes are recommended as they are a good introduction to the various foods and flavours of Hainan. Other recommended island foods include tropical fruit dishes, Hainanese chicken rice, and various seafood dishes.

The market is also home to various handicraft goods as well. Local artisans proudly display their handicraft pieces made of traditional island materials. Examples include local handwoven baskets, traditional island textiles, and island ceramic wares, as well as many other handicraft wares available, giving customers a chance to take home a piece of the island’s culture, art, and traditions.

As Hainan develops and becomes a major international tourist hub, the capital, Haikou, becomes a major point of entry for tourists arriving by air and other modes of transport from other parts of the world, and, of course, all over China. Haikou’s tropical climate, beautiful beaches, and many attractions and cultural sites make the city a growing interest for business and leisure tourism. Haikou was chosen as a tourism and business-relaxation destination for the growing number of tourists arriving in Haikou since 2025.

The Old Qilou Street market is part of the diversified growing attractions in Haikou. The market gives tourists an unusual cultural experience. The morning market is followed by visits to other tourist attractions, such as Hai Rui’s Tomb and Haikou Clock Tower. One can also spend the day lounging on the public beaches that are a short distance from the market.

Besides its cultural and historical attractions, Haikou has a variety of high-end resorts, luxury retail shops, and golf courses, attracting tourists who wish to relax and have fun. With continued investment in infrastructure and diversified attractions, Haikou is on its way to becoming one of the top tourist destinations in Asia.

Sustainable Tourism and Economic Benefits to the Community

The morning market in Qilou Old Street plays an important part in supporting and practicing sustainable tourism. It also benefits the local economy. By vendor partnerships in selling and promoting local traditional handicrafts, the market sustains Hainan’s cultural richness and supports small artisans. Moreover, the market also supports sustainable agriculture. Most of the vegetables, fruits, and seafood sold in the market are sourced from local farmers and fishermen.

Tourism in Haikou and in places such as Qilou Old Street allows and encourages interaction with the local population, fostering local and tourist cultural interchange and understanding. Qilou Old Street’s ongoing renovation, while offering modern tourist services and amenities, also attempts to keep the area’s original character. This makes it a model of sustainable tourism in the future.

Future Outlook: The Increasing Charm of Haikou

With a growing diversity of tourists, Qilou Old Street is a focal point of Haikou’s tourism and cultural identity. The morning market, with its lively atmosphere, traditional delicacies, and local crafts, provides a genuine experience and a taste of the best of Hainan’s traditions.

Tourism in Haikou has been a growing trend over the past few years as the popularity of Haikou as a travel destination has also been growing on an international scale. This is in line with the broader tourism trend in Hainan, as the region is establishing itself as a cultural tourism, eco-tourism, and tropical relaxation destination. Haikou’s traditional markets, historical attractions, and modern amenities make it a point of interest for active and culturally enriching travelers.