Traveling and Making Memories in a 900 Year Old Volcanic Village is Worth the Journey

Estimated reading time: 6 minutes

Step back in time and explore the 12th-century Róng Táng volcanic village in Hainan, China.

Discover a living piece of history constructed entirely from volcanic rock. Experience the essence of history and nature coexisting in this unique volcanic village.

Róng Táng Volcanic Village
- Discovering the Volcanic Village’s Historical Significance
Experiencing a Volcanic Village
- Living Historians
- Free Range Chickens
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Róng Táng Volcanic Village

Welcome to Róng Táng Lava Village, a place where time stands still, and history whispers its secrets through the rocks and ancient pathways.

Imagine stepping back nearly a millennium, immersing yourself in a village forged by volcanic forces, and discovering a world where making memories becomes an unforgettable journey.

It’s a journey that transcends time, offering travelers an opportunity to create lasting memories in a setting that’s stood for centuries.

Discovering the Volcanic Village’s Historical Significance

In the heart of Haikou, a city on the northern coast of Hainan Island in China, lies a historical gem that has withstood the test of time for nearly a millennium.

Róng Táng volcanic village, nestled amidst lush tropical landscapes, is a living testament to human resilience and the profound connection between people and their environment.

The history of volcanic villages around Haikou dates back to the 12th and 13th centuries, a time when the Earth’s fiery temperament shaped the landscapes.

There remains loose lava throughout the village.

Experiencing a Volcanic Village

My journey through Róng Táng was akin to stepping into the pages of an old English children’s book.

The charming walkways were lined with lava rock walls, skillfully constructed to create a seamless blend with the surrounding landscape.

The houses, modest and timeless, were all crafted from the very lava rocks that still stand strong after over 900 years.

In a region prone to tropical typhoons, this village has proven its resilience against the test of time.

As I explored the village, its unique features unraveled before me. Overgrown alleys, where nature’s grip took hold, created enchanting archways that led to hidden corners brimming with history.

Abandoned houses stood as silent witnesses to the passage of centuries, bearing the marks of life that once thrived within their walls.

The walkways between houses are absolutely beautiful.

Living Historians

What truly made the experience memorable was the elderly residents of the village.

They are living historians who lovingly share their stories. Their tales painted vivid pictures of life in Róng Táng, tales of tradition and innovation preserved through generations.

It’s a place where history, nature, and humanity coexist in perfect harmony.

These villages served as vibrant communities for centuries, their lava rock houses standing strong against the elements.

However, times have changed.

Today, most of these villages are home to elderly residents who remember a different era. With the younger generation seeking opportunities in more urbanized areas, these historic villages face the challenges of depopulation.

These houses have stood the test of time for over 900 years!

Exploring these villages offers a glimpse into a world frozen in time, where history and heritage are carved into the very stones that make up the homes and alleys.

It’s an experience capturing the past and serves as a reminder of the need to preserve these unique cultural gems for generations to come.

Solid modest house tucked away in the tropical landscape.

Free Range Chickens

As I wandered through the charming lanes of Róng Táng Village, one sight that left an indelible mark was the presence of free-range chickens.

These lively fowls roamed freely, much like my chickens back on the ranch in Canada, albeit with one significant difference – they understood only Chinese and local dialects.