Sanya, formerly known as Yazhou located on the southernmost tip of Hainan Island, harbors a long history and rich culture. As long back as the Qin Shihuang period, Yazhou was one of the three southern prefectures, often referred to as the "end of the earth". In ancient times, it was a quiet place for relegated officials and exiled prisoners because it was so far away from the imperial capital. But today it is a tourist resort, boasting of high-rise buildings, airports, stations and busy ports.