MileHacker Logo
How to Get to Meizhou

How to Get to Meizhou

Meizhou Guangdong, China Travel Guide

Air Travel to Meizhou

Meizhou Airport & Flight Connections

Meizhou's regional airport serves as a gateway for domestic travelers. International visitors typically connect through major Chinese hubs.

Flight Information

  • Meizhou Meixian Airport (MXZ): The main regional airport handles domestic flights.
  • Airlines & Routes: Major Chinese airlines operate flights to MXZ from cities like Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu, Chongqing, and Haikou.
  • No Direct International Flights: MXZ does not offer direct international flights; connect through major Chinese or regional international airports (CAN, SZX, HKG).

Airport Transfers & Timing

Upon arrival, various options facilitate your transfer to Meizhou city or onward travel.

Transfer Options

  • From MXZ to City Center: Taxis are available (20-30 min, ¥30-50). Airport shuttle buses operate to points in Meizhou.
  • From CAN/SZX to Meizhou: High-speed rail offers a quick, comfortable option (2-3 hours from major train stations).
  • Long-distance Bus: Buses from Guangzhou or Shenzhen airport terminals to Meizhou take approximately 4-5 hours.

Seasonal Pricing

Flight prices increase significantly during Chinese public holidays (e.g., Chinese New Year, National Day) and peak summer. Booking well in advance is advisable.

Airport Facilities

Meizhou Meixian Air terminal is a regional facility with basic services, including check-in counters, security, a few shops, and restaurants. It is a smaller, less bustling environment.

In-Airport Connectivity

Limited Wi-Fi and power outlets may be available. It is best to charge devices before arriving or use portable power banks.

Land Transportation Options

Train Connections & Tickets

  • Meizhou West Railway Station: The major high-speed rail station for Meizhou.
  • High-speed Rail (G/D trains): Connects to Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Shantou, Jieyang, and other provinces.
  • Booking: Use 12306.cn (Chinese ID/phone) or Trip.com/Klook (cards from other countries).
  • Advance Booking: Essential for high-speed routes and peak seasons.

Long-distance Buses & Self-driving

  • Meizhou Passenger Transport Terminal: Extensive bus network to Guangdong cities and neighboring provinces.
  • Bus Booking: Tickets available at stations or online platforms. An affordable travel option.
  • Self-driving: Not an option for most foreign tourists; International Driving Permits (IDPs) are not recognized.
  • Alternative: Hire hiring a car and driver through your hotel or a local travel agency.

Road Conditions & Safety

Expressways

Generally well-maintained, multi-lane, and toll roads. These roads are efficient for inter-city travel.

Rural Roads

Can be less maintained, narrower, and winding, especially in mountainous areas. Caution is needed.

Traffic & Driving Style

Traffic can be heavy in urban areas. Driving styles may are not the same as what you are accustomed to.

Sea/River Arrivals: Not Applicable to Meizhou

Ferry Services & Cruise Ports

Meizhou is an inland city, so sea or major river arrivals are not a piece of its transportation network. Direct sea travel to Meizhou is not possible.

Ferry & Cruise Overview

  • Meizhou does not have any sea/river ferry services for inter-city or international passenger transport.
  • There are no cruise ports located in Meizhou for passenger arrivals or departures.
  • Any travel to Meizhou from the coast or riverine areas involves transferring to land or air transport.

River Transportation in Meizhou

The Han River flows through Meizhou city, but its utilize for passenger transport is recreational.

Han River Use

  • River transportation on the Han River is limited to local sightseeing boats within the city.
  • These boats cater to leisure and tourism, not for public transport between different points or cities.
  • No commercial passenger ferry routes exist along the Han River for inter-city travel to or from Meizhou.

Immigration Procedures at Seaports

This section is not applicable to Meizhou, as there are no seaports in the city. Entering and leaving procedures follow air or land border regulations.

No Seaport Procedures

  • Meizhou, being an inland city, does not have seaports.
  • Therefore, specific immigration procedures for seaports are not relevant here.
  • All entry/exit for foreign nationals occurs via air or land border crossings.

Connections to Land Transportation

As there are no sea or river arrivals for inter-city travel, connections to land transportation from such points are not applicable directly within Meizhou.

No Direct River/Sea Connections

  • This section is not applicable to Meizhou's transportation network.
  • Travelers typically use air or land routes for arrival and departure.
  • Ground transportation from other Chinese cities connects directly to Meizhou.

Departure Information

  • Exit Fees/Taxes: No specific exit fees or taxes typically apply for departing travelers from Meizhou or China.
  • Leaving The airport (MXZ): Arrive 1.5-2 hours before your domestic flight.
  • Train Departure (Meizhou West): Arrive 30-45 minutes before high-speed train departure.
  • Bus Departure (Meizhou Terminal): Arrive 20-30 minutes before long-distance bus departure.
  • Peak Periods: Allow extra time during Chinese public holidays, as transport hubs become exceptionally busy.
  • Facilities: Airports and stations offer basic facilities, including check-in, security, waiting areas, and some retailers/restaurants.

Local Transportation: Navigating Meizhou

Public Transportation Overview

Meizhou mainly relies on an extensive city bus system. This system serves as the backbone of local public transportation. There is currently no metro or tram system in Meizhou. Buses cover most of the urban area and extend to many surrounding districts and towns, making them a practical choice for exploring.

Public Transport Features

  • Extensive Bus Network: Numerous routes crisscross Meizhou, connecting residential areas, commercial centers, and attractions.
  • Important Hubs: Meizhou Passenger Transport Terminal and Meizhou West Railway Station are major hubs.
  • Fares & Payment: Fares are very affordable (¥2-3 per ride). Pay with exact cash, Meizhou Public Transport Card, or mobile payment (WeChat Pay/Alipay).

Bus Operations & Accessibility

Operational Details

  • Hours & Frequency: Buses generally operate from early morning (~6:00 AM) until late evening (~9:00-10:00 PM). Main routes run every 10-20 minutes.
  • Accessibility: Infrastructure is developing. Newer buses might offer low-floor access, but accessibility is not universal across the entire fleet or all bus stops.
  • Navigation Tips: Use Baidu Maps or Gaode Maps for real-time bus routes. Learning basic Chinese phrases helps. Have cash or mobile payment ready.

Taxis in Meizhou

Licensed taxis are typically green or yellow, displaying a meter and driver ID. Hail them on the street, at stands, or via phone. Fares are metered (¥7-10 flag-drop).

Ride-Sharing with Didi

Didi Chuxing is the dominant ride-sharing app. It offers convenience, transparent pricing, and helps overcome language barriers. Requires a Chinese person phone number for registration.

Payment Methods

For both taxis and Didi, mobile payment via WeChat Pay or Alipay is preferred. Cash is accepted but less common for many drivers.

Rental Options: Exploring on Your Own Terms

Car & Motorcycle Rentals

Personal vehicle rentals for foreign tourists are limited in Meizhou due to driving license requirements.

Driving Limitations

  • Car Rental: Not generally an option. International Driving Permits are not recognized in mainland China.
  • Requires Chinese License: A local Chinese driving license or temporary permit is needed, impractical for short visits.
  • Motorcycle/Scooter: Rentals are not commonly accessible to tourists. The state of the traffic present potential hazards.

Bicycle Rentals & Driving Laws

Bicycles offer a pleasant way to explore certain areas, while understanding local driving laws remains important.

Cycling & Road Rules

  • Bicycle Sharing: Programs like HelloBike operate, requiring a Chinese phone number and mobile payment.
  • Driving Laws: China drives on the right side of the road. Speed limits are enforced, and drink driving is strictly prohibited.
  • Parking: Designated parking lots are available. Street parking is often paid and can be scarce in busy areas.

Walking & Cycling in Meizhou

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas

The Han River promenade, Renjing Ancient Street, and various parks are pleasant for walking. Hakka Tulou clusters are best explored on foot.

Walking Tour Options

Self-guided walks are feasible using digital maps. Guided walking tours are not widely advertised for general tourists; arrange custom tours through hotels or agencies.

Bicycle Infrastructure & Safety

Dedicated bicycle lanes are limited; cyclists often share roads. Exercise caution on busy streets. The Han River promenade offers a pleasant cycling route.

Specialized Transportation & Accessibility

Tour & Water Transportation

Specialized transport options in Meizhou mainly cater to sightseeing rather than daily commuting.

Sightseeing Transport

  • Tour Buses: No hop-on-hop-off services. Local agencies or hotels may arrange organized day tours to attractions.
  • Boat Taxis/Water Transport: Limited to recreational sightseeing boats on the Han River within Meizhou city.
  • Cable Cars: Wuzhishi Scenic Area has a cable car system offering scenic views and reducing hiking effort.

Accessibility & Unique Transport

Meizhou's accessibility infrastructure is developing, with some services catering to mobility needs.

Mobility & Local Options

  • Accessibility Services: Major hotels and newer public buildings may have ramps and elevators.
  • Challenges: Public transport (older buses) and of a greater age attractions present challenges for mobility issues.
  • Private Car: Consider hiring a private driver for flexibility if you have mobility needs.

Driving Laws & Road Conditions

Driving Laws

China drives on the right-hand side of the road. Speed limits are enforced, and drink driving is strictly prohibited.

Road Conditions

Major roads and expressways are generally good. Rural roads can be narrower and less well-maintained.

Parking

Designated parking lots are available. Street parking may be available but is often paid and could be scarce.

Stay Connected for Easy Navigation

Always carry a fully charged phone with essential apps (maps, translation, payment) when getting around Meizhou. This helps you navigate, communicate, and pay for services efficiently.

How to Get to Meizhou. Flights, Transportation, Airlines