To get around Hangzhou, you can use a combination of taxis, buses, and a well-developed metro system, as well as ride-hailing apps and bicycles, making it relatively easy to navigate the city.
Quick Facts
Getting There
Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport is the main airport serving the city, located about 30 kilometers east of downtown Hangzhou. The airport offers direct flights to many domestic and international destinations, including major cities in Asia, Europe, and North America. You can also reach Hangzhou by train or bus from nearby cities like Shanghai, Nanjing, and Suzhou. The city is well-connected to the rest of China by a network of highways and expressways, making it easily accessible by car or bus.
For international travelers, Hangzhou is a major hub with direct flights from many countries, including the United States, Japan, Korea, and European nations. You can fly into Hangzhou from major airports like Shanghai Pudong International Airport, Beijing Capital International Airport, or Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport, and then take a domestic flight or high-speed train to Hangzhou. Alternatively, you can take a bus or taxi from nearby cities, which is a more affordable option but may take longer.
Domestic Flights
Hangzhou has an extensive domestic air network, with flights connecting to many cities across China. You can fly from Hangzhou to major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen, as well as smaller cities and tourist destinations. China Eastern Airlines, China Southern Airlines, and Air China are some of the major airlines operating domestic flights from Hangzhou. Booking flights in advance is recommended, especially during peak travel seasons, and you can expect to pay around $100-$300 USD for a one-way ticket, depending on the destination and time of year.
Trains & Rail
Hangzhou has a well-developed rail network, with high-speed trains connecting to many cities in China. The city is a major hub on the Shanghai-Kunming High-Speed Railway, with frequent trains to Shanghai, Nanjing, and other nearby cities. You can also take slower trains to smaller cities and rural areas. The high-speed trains are a convenient and relatively affordable way to travel, with tickets starting from around $50-$100 USD for a one-way trip. You can book train tickets online or at the train station, and it's recommended to book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
Buses & Coaches
Hangzhou has a comprehensive network of buses and coaches connecting to nearby cities and towns. The city has several bus stations, including the Hangzhou South Bus Station and the Hangzhou East Bus Station, which offer buses to destinations like Shanghai, Suzhou, and Nanjing. The buses are a more affordable option than trains or flights, with tickets starting from around $10-$30 USD for a one-way trip. However, the journey times can be longer, and the buses may not be as comfortable as trains or flights.
City Transport
| Mode | Available In | Cost (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metro/Subway | Hangzhou | $0.50-$1.50 | 4 lines, convenient and efficient |
| City Bus | Hangzhou | $0.25-$1.00 | extensive network, affordable |
| Taxi | Hangzhou | $1.50-$3.00/km | widely available, metered |
| Ride-Hailing | Hangzhou | $3.00-$6.00 | Didi Chuxing, Alibaba's AutoNavi |
| Bicycle | Hangzhou | $0.50-$1.00/day | public bike-sharing system, convenient |
Driving
- To drive in Hangzhou, you need a valid Chinese driver's license or an international driving permit.
- The road conditions in Hangzhou are generally good, with well-maintained highways and city roads.
- Fuel costs in Hangzhou are relatively affordable, with gasoline prices starting from around $0.50 USD per liter.
- Car rental companies like Hertz and Avis have offices in Hangzhou, and you can rent a car for around $40-$60 USD per day.
- When driving in Hangzhou, be aware of the traffic rules and regulations, and watch out for pedestrians and bicycles, which are common in the city.
- Parking in Hangzhou can be challenging, especially in the city center, so it's recommended to use public parking lots or park-and-ride facilities.
Transport Tips
- Be aware of traffic scams, where drivers may take you on a longer route to increase the fare.
- Use cash or mobile payments like WeChat Pay or Alipay to pay for transportation, as not all drivers or companies accept credit cards.
- Download the Didi Chuxing or AutoNavi app to book ride-hailing services or taxis.
- Always check the meter before you start your journey, and make sure the driver is using the correct rate.
- Be prepared for traffic congestion, especially during rush hour or peak travel seasons.
- Consider purchasing a Hangzhou Public Transport Card, which can be used to pay for bus, metro, and ferry fares.
- Learn some basic Chinese phrases, like "hello" (nǐ hǎo) and "thank you" (xiè xiè), to help you communicate with drivers and locals.