What to buy in Haikou
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Using local materials, Hainan's featured artwork and souvenirs are created with an ocean theme, rural style and national flavor. Generally there are about ten categories covering over a hundred different kinds of products that are created to appeal to tourists. These categories are:
Pearl
There are many shops within Hainan selling many kinds of pearls, but the seawater pearl is the local specialty. If you are interested in purchasing pearls, to avoid the risk of imitations it is best to buy in larger jewelry stores.
Crystal
These glistening gems are very popular among young girls. DIY shops allow you to use your imagination and create your own unique gift for your friends.
Li Brocade
This is a featured cloth handmade by the Li people using cotton inside the capsule of kapok. Particularly renowned during the Spring and Autumn Period (770 BC - 476 BC), the Li Brocade is China's oldest cotton textile. The Li Brocade includes a column skirt, headband, bed sheet, quilt and so on. Designs of flowers, grass, animals and human beings are exquisitely made.
Coconut Shell Sculpture
These sculptures are carved on coconut shells into various figures including cute babies, delicate key buckles, tea boxes, pigs, and other craftwork such as pictures. Remember to bring one home!
Seashell
DC Department Store on Haixiu Road has local shell-made wind bells and toys that cost very little but are definitely distinctive local folk artworks. Be sure to handle the easily-damageable shell craftworks with care.
Pepper
Hainan abounds in various kinds of pepper, black and white. They can be divided into pepper pellets and finished pepper. The pepper is not only used as seasoning but also as a stomach-warming ingredient.
Cultural souvenirs of the Li Minority are also sold in big shopping malls. They are very unique and distinctive gifts for friends and family.