Tongling Anhui, China Travel Guide
Situated about 150 kilometers (93 miles) north of Tongling, HFE is the capital airport of Anhui Province. It operates numerous domestic routes and a growing number of international flights, mainly to other Asian cities.
Situated about 200 kilometers (124 miles) northeast of Tongling, NKG is a key global airport. It offers a more extensive range of domestic and international flight options, including paths to various cities in The continent of asia, and some to Europe and North America.
Major Chinese carriers operate frequent domestic flights from HFE, NKG, or HGH to most large cities across China. International flights from NKG and HGH include various cities in Asia, and some to Europe and North America.
Most direct flights from major global hubs land in China's largest international airports (e.g., Shanghai Pudong, Beijing Capital). From there, take a connecting domestic flight or a high-speed train to Tongling's regional airports.
Expect higher prices and less availability of domestic flights during Chinese New Year, National Day holiday, and summer holidays. Off-peak seasons (spring and autumn, excluding early May/October holidays) offer better deals.
Approx. 250 kilometers (155 miles) southeast of Tongling.
A broad selection of flights, with good connections across Asia and some longer-haul routes.
Hangzhou is a popular tourist destination itself, with good transport links.
Tongling North Railway Station (铜陵北站) is the main high-speed rail hub serving the city. It connects to major cities across China via the high-speed railway network. Trips from Hefei, Nanjing, and Hangzhou take under an hour to a few hours. Direct connections also exist to larger metropolises like Shanghai, Beijing, and Wuhan.
Tongling Central Bus Station (铜陵中心汽车站) handles long-distance bus services. Buses connect Tongling to various cities within Anhui Province and to some cities in neighboring provinces (e.g., Wuhu, Huangshan, Nanjing, Hangzhou, Hefei). These buses are generally less comfortable and slower than high-speed trains but a good option for destinations not directly served by high-speed rail.
China does not recognize International Driving Permits (IDPs) or foreign driver's licenses. A valid Chinese driver'a driver's license is necessary to drive a vehicle. The process for a temporary Chinese license is complex and generally impractical for short-term visitors.
Main roads and expressways in and around Tongling are generally well-maintained. Urban areas may experience heavy traffic, especially during peak hours. Driving habits can be pushy and differ from Western norms. Road users like pedestrians, cyclists, and scooters may not always adhere to traffic rules.
Tongling's location on the Yangtze River means it has a significant river port, but its main function is for cargo. Passenger services are generally limited.
International immigration procedures do not apply at Tongling's river port for tourist arrivals. Any international entry into China would take place at an international airport or border crossing.
Tongling Port is a major inland port mainly handling cargo on the lower reaches of the Yangtze River.
Its main role for passenger services is local cross-river connections, not international cruise arrivals.
Short, scenic boat rides on the Yangtze or Tianjing Lake offer a different city perspective.
No specific exit fees or taxes are levied upon departure from China for air or land travel. These generally show up in your flight or train ticket price.
Smaller airports (HFE/NKG/HGH) offer waiting lounges, various restaurants and cafes, duty-free shopping (for international departures), restrooms, and other amenities.
Show up early for check-in and security screening at airports.
Have your e-tickets ready for train travel; physical tickets may need collection.
Allow extra time for unexpected delays during transfers or security.
Careful consideration of transportation details aids planning a smooth arrival and departure, allowing you to enjoy your time in Tongling.
