yanoda rainforest cultural tourism zone

Visiting Yanoda Rainforest Cultural Tourism Zone in Sanya, Hainan Island

Sanya is perhaps the only beach resort destination in China, almost unheard of in many countries. Whilst everyone is well aware of the 1st tier cities like Shanghai, Beijing, Guangzhou and Shenzhen, several other interesting cites are sometimes neglected.

Nestled in the southernmost part of Hainan island, Sanya is one such exotic locale fondly termed as the “ Hawaii of China “.

While looking for things to do in Sanya, China, during my week-long beach getaway with  Sanya tourism board , I zeroed in on the beautiful Yanoda rainforest cultural tourism zone . As a nature lover, hiking around Hainan and enjoying scenic views was high on the charts for me – and Yanoda happened to be the perfect choice.

Luckily, I met a fun travel mate – Anouchka (who was also traveling with the board) and we decided to go on some adventures together… apart from our daily trips to the beach, pool and restaurants.

Since weather in Sanya can be extremely hot, we were advised to start early and we reluctantly decided to head out at 0900 hrs. The hotel arranged our round trip cab which set us back by CNY 300 (Yes, Sanya is slightly expensive for an Asian destination) and we were all set to go.

Experiencing Yanoda Rainforest – A Happy Place

Spread across a whooping 45 square kilometers, Yanoda is the ultimate happy place and promises to bring a smile to your face. With their cheerful staff dancing to “ Aye aye aye I’m your little butterfly ” and saying “Ya-no-da” making bunny ears with their fingers ( their patent greeting inside the park ), you are bound to be peppy all day long.

As soon as you enter, you are ushered to a shuttle bus and you are free to get off at any of their designated stops. It’s like a hop on hop off bus tour and the fees are included in your entry ticket. You can take the shuttle anytime , anywhere at no additional cost.

You will also be provided with a funky audio guide/map. The map is in 4 languages – Korean, English, Russian and Japanese. It is GPS enabled and starts playing automatically as soon as you arrive at a spot. The audio guide details the history/background of the location you are at and also marks the areas you have covered with little red lights.

Still, it is not entirely easy to navigate around the park with lack of signs and English speaking guides. However, it was fun exploring and we even enjoyed getting lost in the scenic Yanoda forest.

Exploring Yanoda Rainforest

The two main areas of the park are dream valley and rainforest valley , however, we wandered off into valleys and gorges where there was not even a single person. There are plenty of activities in Yanoda like zip – lining, camping, stream trekking and CS play. These are perfect for kids and Yanoda makes for an excellent family day tour in Sanya.

It is not just great for kids as even we had an amazing time there.

Here are few of the attractions and reasons we absolutely loved Yanoda rainforest –

Shooting point of “Holding Love”

This was our first stop when we got to the park. A beautiful ring like structure stood tall above a viewpoint. Wondering what the fuss was all about, we soon found out that a popular Chinese rom com was filmed there.

Waterfall trekking

At Yanoda rainforest, they have several waterfalls and an interesting route one can follow to chase them all. The audio map guides you to the starting point and its an easy downhill walk from there on. You can gawk at lovely small waterfalls and “trek” on well paved steps throughout.

Going Ga-Ga over the “Peacock Throne”

While walking around, we came across two magnificent peacocks sitting on either side of a swing. It was so well decorated and stunning and the peacocks were beyond beautiful. I checked to see if they were tied to the sides, but they were absolutely free to wander as they pleased. Once I was sure that they were not mistreated or tied down as “exhibits”, I decided to get clicked at what I call the “Peacock throne”.

Sky of Happiness

When we were about to exit, we suddenly realized there was a whole part of the park which we had skipped. We hopped right on to another shuttle bus and went up north to see the famous sky of happiness . This is a bridge filled with Chinese good luck charms and showcases the different gates towards happiness – friendship, family, love, kinship and the likes. Its a wobbly bridge which is fun to “jump” on.

Jumping on Pebbles at Lotus Pond

An awe inspiring lotus pond popped up in front of us as we were casually strolling along. We could hear the frogs croaking in the background and saw that big round pebbles marked our path. We crossed the pond by jumping on them. The setting seemed right out of a fairy tale.

Getting lost in the Park

Yes, believe it or not – this was one of the fun parts. We got lost in valleys and found epic landscapes like these, so who could complain –

Traversing in Mini carts and Shuttle buses

Modes of transport inside the park were excellent..and free. Well, the price was included in our tickets so we could move around on the designated routes as and when we pleased.

Opening Hours – 0730 – 1800 hrs daily

Entry & Activity fees – CNY 170 per person. Other activities are charged extra – zip-line and stream trekking at CNY 100 each.

You can easily spend the entire day at Yanoda but we could only last for 4.5 hours in the scorching heat – though, the trees provided ample shade and breeze for an enjoyable hike. I was already seeking the comfort of my luxury resort .

Have you been to Yanoda rainforest cultural tourism zone or visited Sanya yet? If not, you need to check out this beach locale fondly termed as the “Hawaii of China” and bask in its beauty and pristine beaches.

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5 thoughts on “visiting yanoda rainforest cultural tourism zone in sanya, hainan island”.

You’re right, I never heard about Sanya as a beach resort destination in China and actually not about it at all. It seems like a nice place to visit though… Nice that you could use an audio-map to navigate through Yanoda Rainforest. The views seem breathtaking.

Wow. This place looks incredible and has certainly made me question my perception of China as I certainly didnt think of tropical places in China!

This place sounds amazing! I’ve never heard of it and when you said China, I was quite surprised. All of these photos make is look like you could spend days here exploring. I would love to jump around on the pebbles at Lotus Pond 🙂

Oh wow, this place is really beautiful! I can see why they call it the Hawaii of China – the beach looks lovely and your photos are so colorful. I would lov to visit this place – the jumping rocks in the pond are huge! Must be so much fun.

I love the sound of ultimate happy place and love smiling! I would love to cheerfuly dance and say Ya no da. Sounds like so much fun. Thanks for sharing.

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Yanoda Rainforest Cultural Tourism Zone

Yanoda is the only tropical rainforest in China located at 18 degrees North latitude, and the quintessence of the top five tropical rainforests on Hainan Island. It is rated as a diamond rainforest scenic spot in China. Yanoda is a pictophonetic word that means "one, two, three" in the local dialect. The scenic spot has given the name new connotations that Yah means innovation, No means commitment, and Da means practice. At the same time, Yanoda is construed as welcome and hello, expressing friendship and good wishes. In the tourism zone, the dense tropical rainforest obscures the sky and the sun, and the flowing springs and waterfalls cascade down. Walking in the rainforest, you feel ripples of coolness through and around you. Here, six wonders such as hundred-year-old vines, thousand-year-old ferns, huge Ganoderma lucidum, and Antiaris toxicaria dubbed as "cold-blooded killer" coexist and thrive in a marvelous manner.

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Hainan Yanoda Rainforest Culture and Tourism Zone (5A National Tourist Attraction)

Print english.sanya.gov.cn Updated: 2019-05-13

The Yanoda Rainforest Culture and Tourism Zone of Hainan province is located 35 kilometers from downtown  Sanya . At north  latitude 18, the zone is situated in a tropical rainforest and is known as a diamond-level rainforest attraction in China.

“ Yanoda ”  means “ one, two, and three ”  in the local dialect. As the zone bears that name it bears its connotations as well . “ Ya ”  here means innovation, “ No ”  means commitment, and “ Da ” means realization. Read together, they mean warm welcome and best wishes.

The zone features a setting of tropical forests, and embodies the culture of the Chinese Zodiac, rainforest totems, and  folk arts and custom. Integrated with functions of biological tours, vacation s , and leisure, it is  a global tourist resort that provides great choices of food, accommodation , sight-seeing, shopping, and entertainment in a nature-oriented environment .  

T he “ Yanoda Rainforest ” , now open to visitors, represents a 200 million yuan investment. Consisting of two parts, Forest Valley and Dream Valley, it is made accessible via an 18-kilometer long  corridor  equipped with electronic US passenger cars, bio-pavement, a waterfall ropeway, and high-end tour buses.

Within the rainforest, trees grow high and waterfalls abound , with an average annual temperature  recorded at 24 degree Celsius . Walking in the forest, you feel gentle and lively breezes. Coming h ere you are destined  to have a great time and enjoy breathtaking   wonders of the rainforest.

A r eal tropical forest is part of Rainforest Valley, an outstanding“ natural oxygen bar ”. [Photo/ yanoda.com ]

Yanuoda Rainforest ’ s No I resort hotel, with a strong local architectural style, is situated deep in the tropical forests. [Photo/ yanoda.com ]

Featuring unique plating on banana leaves, Li Family ’ s Dinner is a must-have dish offered by the Zone. [Photo/ yanoda.com ]

Address: Sandao Farm, Saodao county, Baoting Li and Miao a utonomous c ounty , Sanya city

Tel: +86- 898-83881101/+86-898-83883333

Directions:

By shuttle bus: take Sanya Intercity Tourist Bus Line 1

By direct bus: Junlan Hotel to Yanuoda Zone; or Mingzhu Hotel to Yanuoda Zone

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Yanoda Rainforest Cultural Tourism Zone

Top ways to experience Yanoda Rainforest Cultural Tourism Zone and nearby attractions

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

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Yanoda Rainforest Cultural Tourism Zone - Things You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

• (13.36 km) The Sanya EDITION
• (12.99 km) InterContinental Sanya Haitang Bay Resort
• (13.58 km) Crowne Plaza Sanya Haitang Bay Resort, an IHG hotel
• (14.14 km) Shangri-La Sanya
• (15.39 km) Sofitel Sanya Leeman Resort
• (13.50 km) XianHai By The Sea, The Sanya EDITION
• (13.35 km) The Jade Egret, The Sanya EDITION
• (13.32 km) SKYBAR at EDITION, The Sanya EDITION
• (13.38 km) Market, The Sanya EDITION
• (13.63 km) Beach Barbacoa, The Sanya EDITION

Yanoda Rainforest Cultural Tourism Zone

Top ways to experience Yanoda Rainforest Cultural Tourism Zone and nearby attractions

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Also popular with travellers

Yanoda Rainforest Cultural Tourism Zone - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

• (13.36 km) The Sanya EDITION
• (12.99 km) InterContinental Sanya Haitang Bay Resort
• (13.58 km) Crowne Plaza Sanya Haitang Bay Resort, an IHG hotel
• (14.14 km) Shangri-La Sanya
• (15.39 km) Sofitel Sanya Leeman Resort
• (13.50 km) XianHai By The Sea, The Sanya EDITION
• (13.35 km) The Jade Egret, The Sanya EDITION
• (13.32 km) SKYBAR at EDITION, The Sanya EDITION
• (13.38 km) Market, The Sanya EDITION
• (13.63 km) Beach Barbacoa, The Sanya EDITION

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Yanoda Rainforest Cultural Tourism Zone

Very distinctive scenic spot, the tropical rainforest atmosphere is strong, interesting, especially the staff inside is warm, cheerful and lively, bringing tourists full of positive energy. One of our companions was shackled, and the staff immediately helped her find medical staff for treatment. I absolutely want to praise it.

Yanoda Rainforest Cultural Tourism Zone Highlights: Must-See Features and Attractions

Hainan Yanoda Rainforest Cultural Tourism Area is located in Sandao Town, Baoting Li and Miao Autonomous County, Hainan Province. It is in the prime location of the Greater Sanya Tourism Economic Circle, next to Wuzhishan Mountain, adjacent to Qixian Mountains, and close to Haitang Bay. It is China's 18° north latitude In 2012, the tropical rainforest became the third "International AAAAA Scenic Area" in Hainan and was recognized as a "National Cultural Industry Demonstration Base". The scenic spot is rich in resources and beautiful. It is a multi-faceted and complex tourist scenic spot integrating rainforest sightseeing, wild exploration, leisure and entertainment, folk customs, and cultural exchanges.

The Yanoda Scenic Area is endowed with unique rainforest resources and diverse ecological environments, nurturing rich original ecological vegetation. There are 1,400+ species of trees, 140+ species of southern medicine, and 80+ species of tropical flowers. The mountains are verdant, the trees are lush, and the flowers and leaves are numerous and concentrated. It has a gene bank of native plant life in Hainan; at the same time, the landform is rich and changing, with mountains and ridges, thousands of rocks competing for beauty, waterfalls and quiet streams... It can be called a natural rainforest museum in modern society.

【Recommended tour routes 】

Take the Bus from the Visitor Center to Ropeway Station No. 1 - Take Ropeway No. 1 to the Glass Platform Station to experience the Wayalu Glass Viewing Platform, Devil Swing, and Cliff Sea View Swing - Walk to the high-altitude zipline project and experience the high-altitude zipline ——Arrive at the Rainforest Valley: stroll along the rainforest plank road, watch the wonders of the rainforest, experience zero-distance feeding and other interactions in the cute pet paradise. ——Go to the wetland landscape area to experience rainforest expansion, rock climbing projects and other projects. ——Take the ropeway back to the gate landscape area.

From the Visitor Center, take a sightseeing bus to Dream Valley and experience waterfalls and water play. Arrive at the wetland service area and experience rock climbing, rainforest expansion and other projects. Take a short break to taste exquisite Afternoon Tea. Go to the Rainforest Valley to walk on the rainforest plank road and watch the rainforest. Wonders, cute pet paradise, experience zero-distance feeding and other interactions - take a Bus from the Rainforest Valley parking station to the glass platform, experience the glass platform, cliff swing, devil swing project - take the ropeway back to the gate landscape area

【Attractions】

Rainforest Valley

Stroll here and listen to the heartbeat of the tropical rainforest

The Rainforest Valley is a hidden forest wonderland with lush green forests and fairy mist. The average annual temperature is 24 degrees, warm and pleasant. It brings together towering giant banyan trees, century-old vines and six wonders of the rainforest. The Rainforest Valley tourist passage consists of wooden planks, stone steps and suspension bridges. It is 3.5 kilometers long and is divided into three circular routes: large, medium and small to meet the tourist needs of all types of people.

Dream Valley

Be immersive and uncover the mystery of the tropical rainforest

Dream Valley has flowing springs, waterfalls, and turbulent green pools. Along the way, there are waterfalls and water pouring down, like jade beads churning, like flawless emeralds, and extremely transparent. Walking into Dream Valley, you will feel the coolness and experience the purity and freshness brought by the unique ecological environment.

Sandao Valley

Wandering among the mountains and rivers, the rainforest breathes

The natural drop in Sandao Valley is as high as 300 meters, with undulating terrain and crisscrossing ravines. Here, you can enjoy the coolness of the rainforest at 18° north latitude. You can enjoy the incomparable joy brought by nature and feel the harmony between man and nature in the artistic conception of flowing clouds and flowing water.

Cute pet paradise

Real-life version of "Zootopia", close contact with cute pets

In the mysterious tropical rainforest at 18 degrees north latitude, in addition to unpredictable wild animals, there are also many docile and naive little animals living there. The "super foodie" alpaca, the "animal star" the slender-tailed mongoose, the "love believer" long-eared guinea pig, and the "fitness expert" kangaroo have all settled down comfortably in the plant kingdom, transforming themselves into the "beautiful person" in the cute pet science paradise. , is a real-life classroom for children to learn about the harmonious coexistence between man and nature.

happy heaven

The wind chimes sway, bringing bursts of blessings

There are four gates on the happy heaven: the friendship gate, the love gate, the family gate, and the happiness gate, which represent long-lasting friendship, long-lasting love between husband and wife, family harmony and harmony, and a happy life.

【Project Introduction】

Travel through the jungle and become a trapeze artist

The high-altitude zipline that traverses the tropical rainforest has a sliding speed of 3 meters per second, a One-way reach of 608 meters, and a drop of up to 70 meters. It only takes 3 minutes from the starting station to the final station. Take a bird's-eye view of the tropical rainforest from the air, breathe the fresh air freely, feel the magnificence of the high-altitude rainforest, and experience the thrilling, strange and dangerous high-altitude gliding.

Playing in the waterfall

Travel through waterfalls and springs, and check out strange mountains and rivers

There are ten levels in total for stepping on the waterfall and playing in the water, including Mount Taishan, floating bridge in the water, crossing the low pile net, toddling, rising step by step, bravely crossing the rickety bridge, camp step by step, a line of sky, crossing dreams, and climbing the Lien Waterfall level. . Rocks stand tall on both sides of the river, and tropical rainforests block out the sun. Under the leadership of the instructor, you put on your straw sandals and head up the river against the rapid water flow.

Cliff sea view swing

Wave in the clouds and feel the romance of the rainforest

The cliff-viewing sea swing has a scream index of 200%, a vertical height of more than 300 meters, a swing of 8 meters high, a 150° thrilling reverberation, and 9 layers of safety insurance. You can still feel the whistling wind echoing in your ears when you scream, wander in the mountains and embrace the beautiful mountain and sea scenery, and experience a hearty experience of both the senses and the vision. Ya Noda is playing with your heartbeat.

devil swing

Play in the rainforest and start the fantasy journey of "Crazy Primitives"

The Devil's Swing swings up to 150 degrees, is suspended 180 meters from the bottom of the cliff, and can reach speeds of 120 kilometers per hour. Falling from a height of 50 meters on the swing equipment, the thrill and excitement will make your adrenaline surge rapidly, challenge the limits of the human body, and start the fantasy journey of "Crazy Primitive Man".

Wahail glass viewing platform

Walk among the clouds and take a close look at the mountains and sea

The Wayalu Glass Observation Platform integrates a 108-meter-long 360-degree suspended glass platform and a 257-meter cliff glass plank. It is located in the beautiful remnants of Wuzhishan Mountain at an altitude of 450 meters, facing the magnificent South China Sea. It is 365 meters in length and is the largest The drop is nearly 200 meters. When you open your eyes, you will see the majestic mountain and sea scenery shrouded in clouds and mist. You can also overlook thousands of acres of forests, a charming appearance of vast expanse of green, and immersively feel the gentle interweaving of mountains, sea, heaven and earth.

Yanoda Rainforest Resort No.1

A hotel hidden in a thousand-year rainforest

Yanoda Rainforest Resort No.1 is surrounded by beautiful green mountains and backed by lush rainforest. There are 23 (suites) guest rooms. There is no hustle and bustle of the city here, and there is tranquility and leisure far away from the world. Staying in the Rainforest Hotel is like lying in the heart of nature. The green forest is green, the fairy mist is filled, a freshness penetrates the heart and mind, and you can enjoy the leisurely leisurely relaxation of body and mind.

Wahailuna Xiangshan Rainforest Resort Hotel

Retreat to the mountains and rivers and "move" the tropical rainforest into the hotel

Naxiangshan Hotel is an ecological hotel hidden in a rainforest wonderland. It is built on the mountain, with lush trees and greenery all year round. It also has a 168-square-kilometer rainforest ecological oxygen bar, and the negative oxygen ion content in the air is about 20,000/cm³. At night, fall asleep in the embrace of the starry sky and sleep with nature; in the morning, be called by the clear chirping of birds and wake up with the rising sun.

Recommendations Near Yanoda Rainforest Cultural Tourism Zone

Yanoda rainforest cultural tourism zone reviews: insider insights and visitor experiences.

Off-season tour, few people, beautiful scenery, walking through the tropical rain forest, cable car up the mountain, two hours walk, there is a flower pear museum halfway, bought a bracelet, took the car down the mountain, bought two boxes of Hainan specialty food at the exit, 20 yuan a box of postage express delivery back to Beijing, very convenient.

It is convenient to book and get it. You can enter the park directly with your ID card, saving time by going to the visitor center to queue up to buy tickets. The park itself is also full of the characteristics of the southern rainforest, and the transportation in the park is convenient, the sightseeing car saves physical strength and time, and the park staff is warm and welcoming.

Our family went to Yanoda Scenic Area to play, and also specially invited a commentator, is the 120 flag of the little girl, just to introduce the plants inside to the child, the staff inside is particularly enthusiastic, meet will be warm greetings, the child will always remember Yanoda Yanoda, Although it takes 8 minutes to take the cable car, it is not boring. Amei will introduce the customs here. The eyes are full of green. At present, they are all dense plants. The flowers on the green trees are particularly beautiful. I have never seen a particularly gorgeous flower on the top of the big tree in Lanzhou. Amei is very patient. My child is very lively, I love to ask Amei what this is and what it is, and I will answer it one by one. I have a lot of fun and I am very happy to see it. Not only did I learn a lot of knowledge, but also saw so many beautiful scenery, and I will come next time!

I bought tickets for the scenic spot + glass bridge in advance on Trip.com. When I arrived at the door, the staff was very enthusiastic about introducing the scenic spot and the best route to play. Considering taking the children for the first time, we reported the VIP group and made up the difference. The tour guide on the 6th, Aqiang, took us to play. Give children all kinds of knowledge of the popular science tropical rainforest, introduce Hainan's customs, and occasionally engage in a little humorous and active atmosphere, very happy! The glass plank road and slide are very recommended. The scenery of the plank road is beautiful. The slide is super fun and not afraid. Children dare to play. Individual attractions have paid photo services and voluntary consumption. Finally, the VIP group fee is charged after playing. If you are unhappy, you can not give it. Haha ～ In short, it is highly recommended 👍

There are not many people going during the Qingming Festival holiday, but it is still recommended to play with the Golden Key, one person 379. The whole tour guide takes the VIP channel, there are shuttle buses and ropeways, so that you will not be too tired to walk, Xiaomin is a local tour guide with a good sense of intimacy, very professional, teach you to recognize various plants, see various wildlife. It’s easy to play and not tired. I also sent an afternoon tea (one refreshment, butter biscuits, chocolate cookies, waffles per person) suitable for the elderly, suitable for couples, and suitable for children. The only special attention is paid to wearing long sleeves and trousers to prevent mosquito bites because it is a tropical rain forest. The tour guide also has cool oil, but it is still itchy for a long time after biting. Although it is a little hot, it is better not to be bitten. Hahaha, in short, it is a good experience, and it is easy to play.

Awesome original ecological natural landscape, like in the virgin forest, all kinds of plants that have not been seen, children can also feed small animals, that is, there is no tour guide, it is a bit easy to get lost, and it feels super tired after a while. The road sign is not clear, not simple and easy to understand, very stuffy, a lot of mosquitoes, Recommend sun protection, water supplements, and things with mosquito repellent, or long sleeves

On the Internet, there are some things to say about how many play projects Yanoda has, but I think Yanoda is more important as a tropical rain forest. All kinds of plants are very different from our inland. It is worth learning by children. If the budget is sufficient, it is best to ask a guide to explain.

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Situated in the south end of Hainan Island, Sanya is an international tourist city boasting tropical scenery and coastal landscape. In this attraction-studded city, we have summarized top 10 things to do in Sanya for tourists who are spoilt for choice.

Wuzhizhou Island

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Nanshan Cultural Tourism Zone

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Yanoda Rainforest Cultural Tourism Zone (Baoting county)

Dream Valley [Photo/yanoda.com]

Yanoda Rainforest Cultural Tourism Zone, located at Baoting county in Sanya, Hainan province, about 35 kilometers away from downtown Sanya, is a representative of Hainan's five tropical rainforests, which can be regarded as China's diamond-grade rainforest scenic spot. The name "Yanoda" means "one, two, three" in the local dialect, it also means "hello", expressing amicability and blessing. 

Sandao Valley [Photo/yanoda.com]  

Sandao Valley has a total length of about three kilometers, with a water depth of 30 m and width of 30-40 m. Waterfalls, rocks, giant trees, and springs formed over ten different and unique landscapes in the valley. There are peculiar geological structure and an abundance of medicinal resources. Some of the stones are as fantastic as the lunar surface, and some are as colorful as a sunset. 

Dream Valley is the best example of a valley waterfall in the tropical rainforest. The 1.2-meter deep and 200-meter high tropical rainforest valley incloses Yingbin Waterfall, Tianmen Waterfall and Lianen Waterfall. The magnificent and colorful scenery, together with the giant trees, rocks, and streams, forms a mysterious and dreamy zone. 

Rainforest Valley [Photo/yanoda.com]

Rainforest Valley shows the original ecology of the rainforest landscape. It has six wonders including the giant banyan, centennial old vines, "living fossil" alsophila podophylla, huge glossy ganoderma, "cold-blooded killer" artiaris toxicaria, and wild arenga pinnata. Rainforest Valley is a unique huge "natural oxygen bar" and negative oxygen ion generator, where the average annual temperature is 24 degrees. The tour channel is comprised of the wooden plank, rustic stone steps, and drawbridge to meet the needs of various tourists.

Scenic Spot level: AAAAA

Ticket price: 158 yuan ($24.28) per person

Tel: +86-898-83883333

Take the bus from Sanya Coach Station to Baoting or Wuzhishan, and get off at the intermediate stop, Sandao Nongchang Road. The bus departs at the interval of every 30 minutes and costs 13 yuan ($2) per person.

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Sanya & Qionghai 6-Day Itinerary: Tropical Escapade and Cultural Discovery

April 21, 2024 · 3 min read

Embark on a 6-day journey through the tropical paradise of Sanya and the cultural landscapes of Qionghai with our comprehensive travel plan. Begin your adventure at the stunning Wuzhizhou Island, where a full day of exploration awaits, followed by an exhilarating 3-hour visit to Aquaventure Waterpark. Day 2 invites you to immerse yourself in the lush surroundings of Yalong Bay Tropical Paradise Forest Park for the day, before delving into the rich heritage of the Nanshan Cultural Tourism Zone for 4 hours. The third day takes you to the iconic Tianya Haijiao for a 2-hour tour, then off to West Island to spend a day amidst its marine beauty. On Day 4, experience the local culture at Binlang Ethnic Village for 3 hours, and then venture into the heart of the Yanoda Rainforest Cultural Tourism Zone for a full day. Day 5 is a blend of history and nature, starting with the Red Detachment of Women Memorial Park for 2 hours, a brief 1-hour cruise along the Wanquan River, and a day-long stroll through the ancient streets of Qionghai Lecheng Ancient Town. The final day of your trip includes a 1-hour visit to the Permanent Venue of the Bo’ao Forum for Asia, a relaxing hour at Yudai Beach, and a 2-hour exploration of the Hainan bai shi hill tourist area. This itinerary is designed to offer a balanced experience of thrill, relaxation, and cultural enrichment, ensuring that your 6 days in Sanya and Qionghai are unforgettable.

• Day 1: Sun, Surf, and Splashes in Sanya

Wuzhizhou Island

Kickstart your Sanya adventure with a full day at Wuzhizhou Island, a paradise for beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts. Nestled in Haishuwan Town, this island is a treasure trove of crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and lush tropical greenery. Whether you're diving into the deep blue to explore the underwater world or simply soaking up the sun on the pristine sands, Wuzhizhou Island promises an unforgettable seaside escape.

Attraction Info

• Wuzhizhou Island, Haishuwan Town, Haishu District, Sanya City
• Suggested tour duration: 1-2 days
• Open from 8:00am-6:00pm，Time to go to the island: 08:00-16:00; time to go off the island: 08:30-18:00; reception time for diving projects ends at 17:00; reception time for water sports ends at 17:40; reception time for luxury island tour ends at 17:00 30. (The business hours and the time for the passenger ship to and from the island may be temporarily adjusted due to special circumstances such as sea conditions and weather. In case of special circumstances, please call the scenic spot for consultation in advance. The actual time shall be subject to the business notice of the scenic spot on the day. We apologize for any inconvenience)

Recommended Nearby Restaurants

Aquaventure Waterpark

After immersing yourself in the natural beauty of Wuzhizhou Island, slide over to the thrills of Aquaventure Waterpark. Located within the majestic Sanya Atlantis in Haitang Bay, this water park is a haven of excitement for families and thrill-seekers. With its heart-pumping slides, relaxing lazy rivers, and interactive play areas, Aquaventure offers a refreshing way to cap off your first day in Sanya.

• Sanya Atlantis, Haishu North Road, Haitang Bay, Sanya City
• Suggested tour duration: 3-6 hour
• Open from 10:00am-8:00pm

Where to Stay Tonight

Atlantis sanya, shangri-la sanya.

• Day 2: Exploring Sanya's Natural Wonders

Yalong Bay Tropical Paradise Forest Park

Begin your second day with an immersive experience at Yalong Bay Tropical Paradise Forest Park, a lush escape nestled in the heart of Sanya. As the first stop of the day, this park offers a refreshing start amidst verdant landscapes and panoramic views. Spend your day wandering through the scenic trails, taking in the diverse flora and fauna, and enjoying the various recreational activities available. Don't miss the opportunity to capture stunning photographs from the park's observation platforms, where the beauty of Sanya unfolds beneath you.

• No.665 Yalongwan Road, Yalong Bay National Tourism Resort, Sanya City
• Suggested tour duration: 0.5-1 day
• Open from 7:30am-6:00pm

Nanshan Cultural Tourism Zone

In the afternoon, make your way to the serene Nanshan Cultural Tourism Zone, a spiritual sanctuary that promises a tranquil respite from the bustling city life. This cultural haven, a mere 4-hour visit, is steeped in Buddhist heritage and offers a glimpse into the region's rich history and traditions. Explore the grand Nanshan Temple, marvel at the towering Guanyin statue, and stroll through the meticulously landscaped gardens. The zone's peaceful atmosphere and architectural marvels are sure to leave a lasting impression on your journey through Sanya.

• Nanshan District, Yacheng Town, Yazhou District, Sanya City
• Suggested tour duration: 4-5 hour
• Open from 8:00am-5:00pm，Indoor venues (Nanshan Temple, Nanshan Villa, Sea Guanyin Yuantong Hall, Thirty-three Guanyin Hall, Intangible Cultural Heritage Center) close at 17:00 every day

Tree House Nanshan Sanya

Nanshan hotel.

• Day 3: Exploring the Romance of Sanya's Coastline

Tianya Haijiao

Begin your third day with a visit to the iconic Tianya Haijiao, a place where the sky meets the sea, and legends come to life. Set aside two hours to immerse yourself in the poetic scenery that has inspired countless love stories. Located 26 km west of Sanya City, at the foot of Maling Mountain, this scenic area offers breathtaking views of vast blue waters that stretch to the horizon, punctuated by dramatic rock formations. It's a must-see destination for couples and photographers alike, seeking to capture the essence of Sanya's natural beauty.

• Sanya City along the seashore westbound 26 km Maling Mountain Lower Tianya Haijiao Scenic Area
• Suggested tour duration: 2-5 hour
• Open from 8:00am-7:00pm

West Island

Spend the rest of your day on the serene West Island, where the sands are as soft as the day is long. This tropical paradise in the Xiaoyagang West Island Marine Cultural Tourism Zone offers a full day's escape from the bustle of the city. Dive into the crystal-clear waters for snorkeling, explore the vibrant marine life, or simply relax on the beach and soak up the sun. West Island is the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy the laid-back island lifestyle, making it an unforgettable part of your Sanya itinerary.

• Xiaoyagang West Island Marine Cultural Tourism Zone, Tianya District, Sanya
• Open from 8:00am-6:00pm

Sanya MiYu Homestay (West Island)

• Day 4: Cultural Wonders and Rainforest Whispers in Hainan

Binlang Ethnic Village

Kicking off the fourth day with a cultural immersion, Binlang Ethnic Village is the perfect place to start. Nestled along the 224 National Road in Baoting, this village offers a three-hour journey through the rich tapestry of Hainan's indigenous heritage. As you wander through the village, you'll encounter traditional Li and Miao ethnic houses, watch vibrant folk performances, and have the opportunity to partake in unique cultural experiences. The village is not just an attraction but a living museum, where the past and present of Hainan's ethnic communities coalesce.

• 224 National Rd, Baoting Lizumiaozuzizhixian, Hainan Sheng, China
• Suggested tour duration: 3-4 hour
• Open from 8:30am-6:00pm

Yanoda Rainforest Cultural Tourism Zone

After delving into the cultural depths of Binlang Ethnic Village, prepare to embrace the natural splendor of the Yanoda Rainforest Cultural Tourism Zone. A full day's adventure awaits at this ecological wonderland, located a mere 35 km from downtown Sanya. Yanoda is not just a rainforest; it's a symphony of lush greenery, cascading waterfalls, and mysterious valleys. With its rich biodiversity and interactive activities like zip-lining and forest treks, Yanoda offers an unforgettable escape into the heart of Hainan's tropical allure.

• Sandao Town | 35 km from the Downtown of Sanya City, Sanya 572081, China
• Suggested tour duration: 1 day

Yanoda Rainforest No.1 Hotel

Naxiangmountain yafeng tropical rainforest resort hotel.

• Day 5: Revolutionary Remembrance and River Reveries in Qionghai

Red Detachment of Women Memorial Park

As the sun rises on the fifth day of our Sanya sojourn, we pay homage to the heroines of history at the Red Detachment of Women Memorial Park. Nestled in the heart of Qionghai, this memorial park is a tribute to the all-female battalion of the same name, which played a pivotal role in China's revolutionary past. Visitors can expect to spend a contemplative two hours exploring the exhibits and monuments that tell the tales of bravery and resilience. The park's serene atmosphere provides a poignant backdrop for reflection on the struggles and triumphs of these remarkable women.

• Qionghai, Hainan, China
• Suggested tour duration: 2 hour
• Closed on Mon;Open on Tue-Sun,9:00am-4:30pm;Open from 9:00am-5:30pm during Spring Festival

Wanquan River

Following the echoes of history, we'll meander to the tranquil waters of Wanquan River. This natural wonder, cradled within Qionghai City, is where the Nanzhi Lehui Water and Ding'an water converge, creating a picturesque setting that's perfect for a leisurely hour-long visit. Originating from the verdant peaks of Wuzhishan and Limu, the river's journey to the South China Sea is a spectacle of nature's artistry. The gentle flow of the Wanquan River is a refreshing interlude, inviting travelers to bask in the serene beauty and perhaps indulge in a peaceful boat ride.

• Within Qionghai City, Nanzhi Lehui Water is the main stream, which originates from Nanling, Linzhi Village, Wuzhishan. The north branch of Ding'an water originates from the south of Limu. The meeting of the two waters at the Hekouzui meeting in Qionghai was called Wanquan River, and it entered the South China Sea through Jiaji to Boao.
• Suggested tour duration: 1-2 hour
• Open 24 hours

Qionghai Lecheng Ancient Town

As the day wanes, we'll step back in time at Qionghai Lecheng Ancient Town. This historic gem, located in Bo'aozhen, is a full day's exploration into the rich tapestry of Hainan's cultural heritage. Stroll through the cobbled streets, flanked by traditional architecture, and immerse yourself in the daily life of a bygone era. The ancient town is a living museum, where every alleyway and market stall tells a story, and the local cuisine offers a taste of the past. It's the perfect culmination to a day steeped in the cultural depths of Qionghai.

• Bo'aozhen, Qionghai, Hainan, China

Star Gazing Lodge

Boao lecheng easeheal wellness resort.

• Day 6: Cultural Insights and Serene Beaches in Qionghai Sanya

Permanent Venue of the Bo’ao Forum for Asia

Starting the final day of our journey with an infusion of modernity and international dialogue, the Permanent Venue of the Bo’ao Forum for Asia stands as a testament to the region's growing global significance. Set aside an hour to explore this architectural marvel on Dongyu Island, where leaders and thinkers convene to shape Asia's future. The venue's sleek design and strategic location make it a symbol of progress and a fascinating point of interest for those intrigued by Asia's role on the world stage.

• Dongyu Island, No.1 Ocean Road, Boao Town, Qionghai City
• Suggested tour duration: 1 hour
• Open from 8:30am-5:30pm

Yudai Beach

After delving into contemporary affairs, unwind along the tranquil shores of Yudai Beach. Just a short journey from the forum's venue, allocate an hour to bask in the sun-kissed tranquility of Wanquanhe Estuary. The beach's pristine sands and gentle waves offer a peaceful retreat, inviting you to reflect on the week's adventures or simply enjoy the soothing embrace of the sea.

• Wanquanhe Estuary, Boao Town, Qionghai City
• Open from 8:00am-4:00pm

Hainan bai shi hill tourist area

Conclude your six-day escapade with a visit to the Hainan Bai Shi Hill Tourist Area. Spend two hours immersed in the natural beauty and cultural heritage nestled within Bai Shi Hill. The area's lush landscapes and historical significance provide a fitting end to a trip filled with diverse experiences. As you wander through this scenic locale, let the memories of Qionghai Sanya's enchanting attractions linger in your heart, promising a return to this island paradise.

• bai shi hill, Jiaji Town, Qionghai City, China
• Suggested tour duration: 2-4 hour

Holiday Inn Resort Qionghai Guantang

Guantang hot spring resort.

* All user reviews in this article have been translated by machine.

* The information above is subject to change at any time. For the latest information, please check the websites of hotels and attractions.

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• Yanoda Rainforest Cultural Tourism Zone

Yanoda is originally onomatopoeia for one, two, and three in Hainan dialect. Yanoda Rainforest Cultural Tourism Zone has given new meanings to these words: "Ya" means innovation, "No" represents promise and "Da" refers to practice. On the one hand, the concept of Yanoda here intends to perpetuate the native cultures and exhibit the essence of Chinese traditional culture; on the other hand, "yanoda" delivers the expression of welcome and greeting, referring to friendship and best wishes.

With the investment RMB0.2 billion already, two scenic zones the Rainforest Valley and the Dreamworld Valley have already completed. All spots in the two theme parks are connected by 18km of inner ring roads using American battery-powered cars, high-class shuttle buses and plank roads alongside cliffs. The rainforest six wonders garroting plants, root tangling with stone, old trunks in blossoming, hanging garden, clinging liana and thick board-root are a major attraction of the zone, all of which symbolize the essential features of the five major rainforests in Hainan Island.

More Attractions in Sanya

• Nanshan Cultural Tourism Zone
• Tianya Haijiao
• Nantian Hot Spring Resort

Recommended China Tours Including Yanoda Rainforest Cultural Tourism Zone Sanya

Yanoda Rainforest, Sanya

呀诺达雨林文化旅游区 (yǎ nuò dá yǚ lín)

Yanoda Rainforest Cultural Tourism Zone, about 35 kilometers from downtown Sanya, is home to Hainan Island's five tropical rainforests. The name "Yanoda" means "one, two, three" in local dialect and implies the meaning of "hello". By coincidence, the zone happens to consist of three major attractions: Rainforest Valley, Sandao (three roads) Valley and Dream Valley.

Rainforest Valley is straight out of an ecological fairy tale, with lianas that extend about 100 meters long, clinging from one tree to another. Large banyan trees anchor onto the rocks to give tourists a pristine look at the lush treasures of a tropical rainforest. The valley is also covered with a carpet of various grass types that are crisscrossed by brooks and streams. It is a unique huge natural oxygen bar and negative oxygen ion generator, where the average annual temperature is 24 C. The 3.5-km-long tour channels are comprised of a wooden plank, rustic stone steps and a drawbridge to meet the needs of various tourists.

Sandao Valley is about 3 km long, with a water depth of 30 m and width of 30 to 40 m. Waterfalls, rocks, giant trees and springs form over 10 unique landscapes. There are peculiar geological landforms and an abundance of medicinal resources. Some of the stones are seemingly fetched from the lunar surface, while some are like the creations of maestros.

Dream Valley features a spectacular waterfall. The 1.2-m deep and 200-m high tropical rainforest valley encloses the Yingbin, Tianmen and Lianen waterfalls. The magnificent and colorful scenery, together with the giant trees, rocks and streams, form a mysterious and dreamy picture.

Scenic Spot Level: AAAAA

Address: Baoting Li and Miao autonomous county, Sanya city, Hainan province

Opening Hours: 8 am-5:30 pm

Ticket Price: 158 yuan ($23), including entrance, sightseeing bus and an electronic map

Web: http://www.yanoda.com/

Tel: +86-898-83883333

1. Dial 400-046-3888 to make reservations for featured rainforest hotels (including a five-star one) whose services include round-trip buses from downtown Sanya to the major attractions in the area.

2. Take the bus from Sanya Coach Station to Baoting or Wuzhishan, and get off atSandao Nongchang Road. The bus departs every 25 minutes and costs 13 yuan.

Last Updated: Dec 19, 2018

Yanoda Rainforest Cultural Tourism Zone (Baoting county)

Dream Valley [Photo/www.yanoda.com]

Yanoda Rainforest Cultural Tourism Zone, located at Baoting county in Sanya, Hainan province, about 35 kilometers away from downtown Sanya, is a representative of Hainan's five tropical rainforests, which can be regarded as China's diamond-grade rainforest scenic spot. The name "Yanoda" means "one, two, three" in the local dialect, it also means "hello", expressing amicability and blessing. 

Sandao Valley [Photo/www.yanoda.com]  

Sandao Valley has a total length of about three kilometers, with a water depth of 30 m and width of 30-40 m. Waterfalls, rocks, giant trees, and springs formed over ten different and unique landscapes in the valley. There are peculiar geological structure and an abundance of medicinal resources. Some of the stones are as fantastic as the lunar surface, and some are as colorful as a sunset. 

Dream Valley is the best example of a valley waterfall in the tropical rainforest. The 1.2-meter deep and 200-meter high tropical rainforest valley incloses Yingbin Waterfall, Tianmen Waterfall and Lianen Waterfall. The magnificent and colorful scenery, together with the giant trees, rocks, and streams, forms a mysterious and dreamy zone. 

Rainforest Valley [Photo/www.yanoda.com]

Rainforest Valley shows the original ecology of the rainforest landscape. It has six wonders including the giant banyan, centennial old vines, "living fossil" alsophila podophylla, huge glossy ganoderma, "cold-blooded killer" artiaris toxicaria, and wild arenga pinnata. Rainforest Valley is a unique huge "natural oxygen bar" and negative oxygen ion generator, where the average annual temperature is 24 degrees. The tour channel is comprised of the wooden plank, rustic stone steps, and drawbridge to meet the needs of various tourists.

Scenic Spot level: AAAAA

Ticket price: 158 yuan ($24.28) per person

Tel: +86-898-83883333

Take the bus from Sanya Coach Station to Baoting or Wuzhishan, and get off at the intermediate stop, Sandao Nongchang Road. The bus departs at the interval of every 30 minutes and costs 13 yuan ($2) per person.

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• Vladimir Region

Vladimir was the medieval capital of north-west Rus, replacing Kiev as the principal Rus city in the 12th Century. It is famous for its UNESCO-protected Golden Gates, Dormition Cathedral and St Demetrius' Cathedral. Often overlooked by its prettier neighbour of Suzdal , it nevertheless makes a perfect day trip from Moscow , but can also combined as a weekend break with a visit to Suzdal or with other Golden Ring cities.

Top recommendations in Vladimir

Cathedral Square

Go to Cathedral Square to see Vladimir's two ancient cathedrals and to enjoy great views of the River Klyazma and surrounding area.

Ulitsa Bolshaya Moskovskaya

Walk along Ulitsa Bolshaya Moskovskaya to see many of the city's sights including the Golden Gates and the Bogoroditse-Rozhdestvensky Monastery.

Knyaginin Uspensky Convent

Visit the Knyaginin Uspensky Convent which was founded in the late 12th century by the wife of Prince Vsevolod the Big Nest.

Bogolyubovo

Take a trip to nearby Bogolyubovo to see the stunningly beautiful Intercession Church on the Nerl.

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Visual culture and the Moscow Metro

James Andrews first rode the Moscow Metro in the 1980s as an undergraduate student studying in the former Soviet Union.

Now after 35 years, the metro is taking him on a new journey: documenting how its iconic public spaces reveal the story of Moscow itself as the city evolved under Joseph Stalin and his Soviet and post-Soviet successors.

This May, Andrews, professor of history, gave a public lecture on his new research project at the Kennan Institute in Washington, D.C. The Kennan Institute is part of the Woodrow Wilson Center, where Andrews was a former senior resident fellow.

The talk, which has been made available on YouTube, was so well-received that Andrews immediately received an additional invitation to present at the Jordan Center for the Advanced Study of Russia at New York University.

What makes the Moscow Metro a fascinating subject for a historian? More people ride the Moscow Metro each day than the New York City Subway and London Tube combined, yet its history is relatively unknown, Andrews said.

“Everyone has a story about the metro, but there has never been a book in English about its history,” Andrews said. “Many of my generation spent an endless amount of time on the metro. Before people had cell phones, you would always say, ‘Well, we’ll meet on the platform at this station.’ Everyone spent time traveling through this cavernous system. It’s a labyrinth really, but at the same time people don’t know much about its history in detail.”

Andrews’ previous books focus on the history of Russian science, technology and the Soviet space program. His new book project on the metro is another opportunity to study iconic Soviet technology, as well as visual culture.

The original metro stations, built with deep shaft tunneling methods beginning in 1932, had airy open ceilings with gorgeous bas-relief architecture—a canvas that Stalin used to create a public art monument to socialism.

“Socialist countries had a tendency to produce technologies that they could adorn with stories,” Andrews said. “Their metro was started in the 1930s under Stalin, and they invested a lot of money in it. It was important for two reasons: there was a utilitarian nature. The crowds were incredible in Moscow. They needed better public transportation. People had been flooding in from the countryside during collectivization. The other thing was to come up with a monument to socialism. That’s why they hired all these architects to decorate, and they decorated each station thematically.”

In the years after Stalin’s death, Nikita Khrushchev issued an edict rejecting the metro’s flamboyant architectural style in favor of a pre-fabricated, practical style, Andrews said. At the same time all over the city, de-Stalinization was happening, and street signs, busts of Stalin and station names were changed or removed.

“The irony is Stalin funded it,” Andrews said. “It’s a Stalin-era display technology project, but by the Khrushchev era they were erasing Stalin’s name from it.”

Andrews has had unlimited access to Moscow’s architectural archives, including many original photographic negatives, and will return to Russia next summer to research political archives.

“The Bolsheviks liked to document everything, but I was shocked at how many photographs they had taken of all these projects, documenting every stage and how well they were preserved,” he said.

Throughout his research, he has uncovered more stories hidden within familiar metro spaces.

One Russian architectural archivist told Andrews about being born in the metro in 1942, during a time when its underground stations housed makeshift hospitals, military meetings and even cultural events such as film nights.

Public spaces bear new stories over time, and Andrews is closely following the story told by newly constructed metro stations. New stations are bringing back marble-laden aesthetics and cultural themes that highlight famous Russian figures like chemist Dmitri Mendeleev or writer Fyodor Dostoyevsky, he said.

“I think the story tells us now that during Putin’s era you see a resurgence of Russian nationalism and Russian themes,” he said. “Not every station can be imploded into this reductive narrative, but it points again to how the narrative of the metro stations changes as the politics of Russian change to some extent and the city itself.”

And it shows how the Moscow Metro has a seemingly endless amount of track for a historian to travel.

“What I love about the project is there is a political history to it, a technological history, a social history, an engineering element, and an artistic element,” Andrews said. “It’s a multi-disciplinary study, which is both fascinating to me and challenging.”

Published: June 17, 2016

Visual culture and the Moscow Metro

James Andrews first rode the Moscow Metro in the 1980s as an undergraduate student studying in the former Soviet Union.

Now after 35 years, the metro is taking him on a new journey: documenting how its iconic public spaces reveal the story of Moscow itself as the city evolved under Joseph Stalin and his Soviet and post-Soviet successors.

This May, Andrews, professor of history, gave a public lecture on his new research project at the Kennan Institute in Washington, D.C. The Kennan Institute is part of the Woodrow Wilson Center, where Andrews was a former senior resident fellow.

The talk, which has been made available on YouTube, was so well-received that Andrews immediately received an additional invitation to present at the Jordan Center for the Advanced Study of Russia at New York University.

What makes the Moscow Metro a fascinating subject for a historian? More people ride the Moscow Metro each day than the New York City Subway and London Tube combined, yet its history is relatively unknown, Andrews said.

“Everyone has a story about the metro, but there has never been a book in English about its history,” Andrews said. “Many of my generation spent an endless amount of time on the metro. Before people had cell phones, you would always say, ‘Well, we’ll meet on the platform at this station.’ Everyone spent time traveling through this cavernous system. It’s a labyrinth really, but at the same time people don’t know much about its history in detail.”

Andrews’ previous books focus on the history of Russian science, technology and the Soviet space program. His new book project on the metro is another opportunity to study iconic Soviet technology, as well as visual culture.

The original metro stations, built with deep shaft tunneling methods beginning in 1932, had airy open ceilings with gorgeous bas-relief architecture—a canvas that Stalin used to create a public art monument to socialism.

“Socialist countries had a tendency to produce technologies that they could adorn with stories,” Andrews said. “Their metro was started in the 1930s under Stalin, and they invested a lot of money in it. It was important for two reasons: there was a utilitarian nature. The crowds were incredible in Moscow. They needed better public transportation. People had been flooding in from the countryside during collectivization. The other thing was to come up with a monument to socialism. That’s why they hired all these architects to decorate, and they decorated each station thematically.”

In the years after Stalin’s death, Nikita Khrushchev issued an edict rejecting the metro’s flamboyant architectural style in favor of a pre-fabricated, practical style, Andrews said. At the same time all over the city, de-Stalinization was happening, and street signs, busts of Stalin and station names were changed or removed.

“The irony is Stalin funded it,” Andrews said. “It’s a Stalin-era display technology project, but by the Khrushchev era they were erasing Stalin’s name from it.”

Andrews has had unlimited access to Moscow’s architectural archives, including many original photographic negatives, and will return to Russia next summer to research political archives.

“The Bolsheviks liked to document everything, but I was shocked at how many photographs they had taken of all these projects, documenting every stage and how well they were preserved,” he said.

Throughout his research, he has uncovered more stories hidden within familiar metro spaces.

One Russian architectural archivist told Andrews about being born in the metro in 1942, during a time when its underground stations housed makeshift hospitals, military meetings and even cultural events such as film nights.

Public spaces bear new stories over time, and Andrews is closely following the story told by newly constructed metro stations. New stations are bringing back marble-laden aesthetics and cultural themes that highlight famous Russian figures like chemist Dmitri Mendeleev or writer Fyodor Dostoyevsky, he said.

“I think the story tells us now that during Putin’s era you see a resurgence of Russian nationalism and Russian themes,” he said. “Not every station can be imploded into this reductive narrative, but it points again to how the narrative of the metro stations changes as the politics of Russian change to some extent and the city itself.”

And it shows how the Moscow Metro has a seemingly endless amount of track for a historian to travel.

“What I love about the project is there is a political history to it, a technological history, a social history, an engineering element, and an artistic element,” Andrews said. “It’s a multi-disciplinary study, which is both fascinating to me and challenging.”