Luhuitou 鹿回头

About Luhuitou

Its name, often translated as “deer turning its head”, comes from a Li love legend represented by the landmark sculpture. The story and the panorama are the two reasons to visit. Clear late-afternoon weather can be rewarding, but leave enough time for the descent and confirm the operating uphill transport rather than assuming it runs all night.

The hill lies across the Sanya River (三亚河) south of Sanya's city centre, projecting into the sea, and is the highest point in the city. From the summit, central Sanya is visible to the north, Dadonghai Beach (大东海) to the east, and the South China Sea stretches south. The park covers a total area of 82.88 hectares, reaching an elevation of 181 metres, and its vegetation is classed as evergreen tropical monsoon forest.

On the summit stands a 12-metre stone sculpture depicting a young hunter and a sika deer that turns into a young woman, the story behind the hill's name. It was created by the Hainan sculptor and painter Lin Yuhao (林毓豪), based on this old Li folk tale, who searched widely before choosing the site for the work.

What to look for

• Views over Sanya’s urban coast, river mouth and neighbouring bays.
• The deer-themed sculpture and interpretation of the Li love legend.

The surrounding area

Southern city and beach-stay base; select an actual bay rather than assuming the whole coastline is one neighborhood.

Location & getting there

Getting to Luhuitou

Navigate to Luhuitou Scenic Area’s visitor entrance on the hill south of central Sanya. Choose the walking or operating shuttle route at the entrance.