To get around in Zhejiang, you can use a variety of transportation options including airports, domestic flights, trains, buses, and city transport, with the region's extensive rail network and well-developed road system making it easy to travel within the province.
Quick Facts
Getting There
Zhejiang is easily accessible by air, with Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport (HGH) being the main international airport in the region. The airport is located about 30 kilometers east of Hangzhou's city center and offers direct flights to many major cities in Asia, as well as some cities in Europe and North America. You can also fly into Shanghai's two international airports, Pudong International Airport (PVG) and Hongqiao International Airport (SHA), which are both located near Zhejiang and offer convenient transportation options to the region. If you prefer to travel by land, you can take a bus or train from nearby provinces or cities, with several major highways and railways connecting Zhejiang to the rest of China.
If you are traveling from within China, you can take a high-speed train from Shanghai, Nanjing, or other major cities to Hangzhou or other cities in Zhejiang. There are also several bus stations in Hangzhou and other cities in Zhejiang that offer bus services to nearby provinces and cities. Additionally, you can take a taxi or ride-hailing service from the airport or bus station to your final destination. It's worth noting that Zhejiang is a popular tourist destination, so it's a good idea to book your transportation in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
Domestic Flights
Zhejiang has an extensive domestic air network, with Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport (HGH) offering flights to many major cities in China. You can fly to Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and other major cities in China, as well as to some smaller cities and tourist destinations. China Eastern Airlines, China Southern Airlines, and Air China are some of the major airlines that operate domestic flights in Zhejiang. When booking domestic flights, it's a good idea to compare prices and schedules across different airlines to find the best option for your needs. You can book flights online or through a travel agent, and it's generally recommended to book in advance to get the best prices. Approximate costs for domestic flights in China can range from $100 to $500 or more, depending on the route and time of year.
Trains & Rail
Zhejiang has an extensive rail network, with several major railways connecting the region to the rest of China. The high-speed rail network is particularly well-developed, with trains running from Hangzhou to Shanghai, Beijing, and other major cities at speeds of up to 350 kilometers per hour. You can book train tickets online or at the train station, and it's generally recommended to book in advance, especially for high-speed trains. The train network in Zhejiang is convenient and comfortable, with clean and modern trains and a range of classes to choose from. You can take a high-speed train from Hangzhou to Shanghai in just over an hour, or to Beijing in about 4.5 hours.
Buses & Coaches
There are several bus companies that operate in Zhejiang, offering services to nearby provinces and cities. The bus network is extensive, with buses running from Hangzhou and other cities to destinations throughout the region. You can take a bus from Hangzhou to Shanghai, Nanjing, or other major cities, as well as to smaller towns and villages. The buses are generally comfortable and clean, with air conditioning and reclining seats. The cost of bus tickets can range from $10 to $50 or more, depending on the route and type of bus. You can book bus tickets online or at the bus station, and it's generally recommended to book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
City Transport
| Mode | Available In | Cost (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metro/Subway | Hangzhou, Ningbo | $0.50-$1.50 | Convenient and efficient |
| City Bus | Hangzhou, Ningbo, Wenzhou | $0.25-$1.00 | Extensive network, affordable |
| Taxi | Hangzhou, Ningbo, Wenzhou | $1.50-$3.00/km | Widely available, metered |
| Ride-Hailing | Hangzhou, Ningbo | $3.00-$6.00 | Convenient, widely available |
| Tuk-tuk/Rickshaw | Some cities | $1.00-$2.00 | Traditional, affordable |
Driving
- To drive in Zhejiang, you will need a valid Chinese driver's license or an international driving permit.
- The road quality in Zhejiang is generally good, with well-maintained highways and city roads.
- Fuel costs can range from $0.50 to $1.00 per liter, depending on the type of fuel and location.
- Car rental companies such as Hertz and Avis operate in Zhejiang, with a range of vehicles available for rent.
- When driving in Zhejiang, be aware of the local traffic rules and regulations, and be prepared for congested roads and aggressive drivers.
- It's a good idea to have a GPS or mapping app on your phone to help navigate the roads in Zhejiang.
Transport Tips
- When taking a taxi, make sure to use a metered taxi and to have the driver use the meter.
- Be aware of scams and overcharging, and always agree on a price before starting your journey.
- Download the Didi Chuxing app to use ride-hailing services in Zhejiang.
- Have a VPN on your phone to access Google Maps and other online services.
- Be prepared for language barriers, and consider downloading a translation app to help communicate with locals.
- Always carry cash, as not all taxis and buses accept credit or debit cards.
- Be aware of peak travel seasons, and plan your transportation in advance to avoid crowds and delays.
- Consider purchasing a China SIM card or portable Wi-Fi hotspot to stay connected during your trip.