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How to Get to Tianshui

How to Get to Tianshui

Tianshui Gansu, China Travel Guide

Air Travel

Tianshui Maijishan Airport TSA

This is the regional airport serving Tianshui. A smaller facility mainly handling domestic flights withinside China. Its proximity to the Maijishan Grottoes makes it a convenient entry point.

Airlines & Routes

  • Mainly served by Chinese domestic airlines: China Eastern, China Southern, Lucky Air, Joy Air.
  • Connects to Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, Xi'an, Lanzhou.
  • No direct international flights to TSA. International travelers fly to major China hubs first.

Seasonal & Transfers

Flight frequency and prices vary greatly by season. During Chinese public holidays and peak summer, demand is high, and prices increase. Book flights well in advance for these periods.

Airport Transfers

  • Taxis readily available outside terminal. Be firm about meter or agree fare.
  • Airport Shuttle Bus: Check schedule upon arrival.
  • Didi (Ride-sharing): Book via app if set up (local SIM, payment).

Seasonal Fluctuations

Flight frequency and prices vary by season. High demand during Chinese public holidays and peak summer.

International Connections

No direct international flights to Tianshui Maijishan Airport. Fly to a major Chinese hub first (Beijing, Shanghai, Xi'an, Guangzhou).

Airport Facilities

Tianshui Maijishan Airport is small with basic facilities: check-in, small waiting area, limited dining. Plan needs before arrival.

Train Connections

High-Speed Rail Tianshui South

  • Main station for G and D trains. Modern and well-equipped.
  • Xi'an: ~1.5-2 hours.
  • Lanzhou: ~1.5-2 hours.
  • Direct connections to Chengdu and Beijing also available.

Regular Speed Trains Tianshui Station

  • Handles K, T, Z, L trains. Slower but cheaper.
  • Serves a wider network of cities.
  • Closer into the city's core.
  • Booking in advance for high-speed trains recommended.

Other Land Options

Long-Distance Buses

Connects to cities within Gansu and neighboring provinces. Slower than trains, but more direct to some smaller regional destinations.

Self-Driving

Not recommended for international tourists. Requires a Chinese driving license. IDP not recognized standalone. Rely on public transport or private car with driver.

Road Conditions

Major highways well-maintained. Local roads vary. Urban areas congested. Beware aggressive driving, motorcycles, pedestrians.

Departure Information

Departing by Air TSA

No departure taxes apply charged. These costs typically incorporate into your flight or train ticket price.

Airport Departure

  • Arrive at Tianshui Maijishan Airport at least 1.5-2 hours before domestic flight departure.
  • Allows time for check-in and security screening.
  • Allow extra time for baggage drop-off.

Departing by Train

No specific exit fees or taxes charged. These costs typically incorporate into your flight or train ticket price.

Train Departure

  • Tianshui South Railway Station (High-speed): Arrive 30-45 minutes before departure.
  • Tianshui Railway Station (Regular): Arrive 30 minutes before departure.
  • Have passport and train ticket ready.

Departing by Bus

No specific exit fees or taxes charged. These costs typically incorporate into your flight or train ticket price.

Bus Departure

  • Tianshui Long-Distance Bus Station: Arrive 30 minutes before departure.
  • Allows time for luggage storage and figuring out your bus.
  • Buses usually have simpler boarding procedures.

Station Facilities

Airport and station facilities cater to departing travelers, offering varying amenities.

Facility Insights

  • Tianshui Maijishan Airport: Small, no-frills waiting areas, restrooms, small shop/cafe.
  • Tianshui South Railway Station: Modern, spacious waiting halls, shops, food vendors.
  • Tianshui Railway Station and Bus Station: Older, basic amenities, some small shops.

General Departure Advice

  • Double-check your flight or train departure gate and time on the day of travel.
  • Use your navigation app (Baidu Maps or Amap) to estimate travel time to the airport or station.
  • Factor in potential traffic.
  • For international travel to Tianshui, book your international flight to a major Chinese hub and your domestic connecting flight to Tianshui as a single booking if possible. This simplifies luggage transfers plus security if delays occur.
  • This approach offers more protection if delays occur.

Insight:

For international travel to Tianshui, book your international flight to a major Chinese hub and your domestic connecting flight to Tianshui as a single booking if possible. This makes it simpler luggage transfers and offers more protection if there are delays.