🏛️ Haikou Qilou — Strolling Through Hainan’s Historic Arcades

In the heart of Haikou, Qilou Old Street (海口骑楼老街) is a blend of history, culture, and tropical charm. The term qílóu refers to arcade buildings with European-influenced facades and shaded walkways — perfect for sheltering from both tropical sun and sudden rain. Built mainly in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, these pastel-colored buildings once housed traders from Southeast Asia, Europe, and across China. Today, the streets are alive with a mix of coffee shops, local eateries, and heritage-themed boutiques, alongside traditional grain shops and hardware stores that have been there for decades. The faded shutters, ornate balconies, and carved pillars make it a photographer’s dream, especially in the golden afternoon light. 💡 Tips: • 📍 Located near Zhongshan Road, easy to explore on foot. • 🌅 Visit late afternoon for beautiful light and cooler weather. • ☕ Stop by a local café under the arcades for a nostalgic, slow-paced break. • 🎨 Keep your eyes on the upper floors — many facades have intricate floral or geometric designs. #chinatravel #hainan #haikou #qilou #arcadearchitecture #oldstreet #heritagechina #海口骑楼老街