How to Get to Zhaoqing. Flights, Transportation, Airlines

Air Travel

Major Airports & Airlines

Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN), approximately 90-120 kilometers east, is China's busiest and main gateway. Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport (SZX), 170-200 kilometers southeast, is another significant international airport.

Flight Options

Both CAN and SZX serve as major hubs for China Southern Airlines, Air China, Cathay Pacific, and global airlines.
CAN offers direct flights from many global hubs.
Flight availability and prices change; use services like Dollar Flight Club or Skyscanner.

Airport Facilities & Transfers

Both CAN and SZX are modern, large international airports offering extensive facilities. Plan your onward journey to Zhaoqing carefully.

Transfer Options

From CAN: Direct Airport Express bus services (1.5-2 hours).
From CAN: Metro to Guangzhou South Railway Station, then high-speed train to Zhaoqing.
From SZX: Metro or bus to Shenzhen North/Futian Railway Station, then high-speed train to Zhaoqing East.

Peak Seasons

Expect higher prices and reduced availability during Chinese New Year, National Day Golden Week holiday period in japan, and summer holidays.

Airport Wi-Fi

Free Wi-Fi often requires a local phone number for verification, so a VPN is useful.

Land Transportation

Train Connections & Buses

Zhaoqing East Train Terminal is the major HSR station, connecting to Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Hong Kong, and other cities.
Zhaoqing Railway Station, near the city center, serves conventional and C-trains within Guangdong.
Zhaoqing Passenger Transport Terminal connects Zhaoqing to other cities within Guangdong and neighboring provinces.
High-speed rail offers speed and comfort; book tickets in advance.

Self-Driving & Road Safety

Foreign driving licenses and International Driving Permits are not recognized in mainland China.
A temporary Chinese driving permit is required to drive.
Renting a car with a local driver is a practical alternative for private traveling by road.
Driving in China can be difficult because of aggressive road behavior styles and heavy traffic.

Border Crossing Information

Hong Kong/Macau Crossings

For travelers from Hong Kong or Macau, border crossings occur at official checkpoints like Luohu, Futian, or Shenzhen Bay.

Required Documents

You need a valid passport and Chinese visa to cross into mainland China.

No Sea/River Arrivals

Zhaoqing is an inland city; it is not have direct sea ferry services or cruise ports for international or inter-city passenger travel.

Departure Information

Exit Fees & Airport Procedures

There are no specific exit fees or taxes levied on international travelers departing from China. Your flight or train ticket prices typically include any applicable airport or station taxes.

Airport Timing

International Flights: Arrive 2-3 hours before departure (CAN or SZX).
Domestic Flights: Arrive 1.5-2 hours before departure.
Allow extra time during peak travel seasons, as airports can be very crowded.

High-Speed Rail & Facilities

Departure procedures for high-speed rail are generally faster than airports, but security checks are still in place.

Station Timing & Services

High-speed Rail: Arrive 30-60 minutes before departure (Zhaoqing East Railway Station).
Be prepared for standard security checks of luggage and personal items.
Airports and HSR stations offer duty-free shops, restaurants, cafes, lounges, and ATMs.

Pre-departure Checklist

Ensure a smooth departure by reviewing details before you leave Zhaoqing.

Final Reminders

Double-check flight or train departure times the day before.
Chinese transport schedules are typically reliable, but adjustments can occur.
Confirm hotel check-out times and arrangements for airport/station transfer.

Airport Facilities

Major airports like CAN and SZX provide a full range of services for departing travelers.

Available Services

Duty-free shopping for last-minute purchases.
Numerous restaurants and cafes.
Airline lounges or pay-per-use lounges for comfort.

Sea/River Arrivals

No Direct Sea Access

Zhaoqing is not a coastal city. It does not have direct sea ferry services or cruise ports for international or inter-city passenger travel.

River Transportation

Passenger river transportation is mainly limited to local scenic tours within the city, not inter-city commuter travel.

Immigration Procedures

Immigration procedures at seaports are not applicable to travelers directly arriving in Zhaoqing.

Departure Reminder

When getting to Guangzhou or Shenzhen airports, be certain your VPN is active to access international communication apps and plan your onward journey effectively.

How to Get to Zhaoqing