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Aloha, China!
Our first stop in China was on the coastal island of Hai Nan. This island is at the same latitude as Hawaii, and is often called the Hawaii of China. The Chinese say it is known for five qualities: sun, beach, ocean, greenery, fresh air. The island population of 9 million has a high proportion of retirees, and the profuse number of high rise apartments reflects this and the general resort nature of its primary city, Sanya.
Chinese and tourists from all over come to the island's principle attraction, the oceanside resort/park/temples of Nanshan Cultural Center. The Center is home to a 3-sided Buddha that is taller than the Statue of Liberty. There are also two beautiful larger-than-life sculptures of Buddha hands.
We had a very interesting and mostly tasty 11 course all vegetarian meal at one of the restaurants in the Center.
