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How to Get to Guiyang

How to Get to Guiyang

Guiyang Guizhou, China Travel Guide

Air Travel

Air Gateways & Carriers

Guiyang Longdongbao International Airport (KWE) serves as the main air access point, a modern facility handling domestic and several global flights.

Air Hub

  • KWE is a hub for China Express Airlines and Guizhou Airlines.
  • Focus city for major Chinese carriers: China Southern, China Eastern, Air China.
  • Extensive domestic connections to major Chinese cities (Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou).

Flight Dynamics

Direct international flights to Guiyang are limited, mostly connecting through major Chinese gateways. Price fluctuations occur seasonally.

International Access & Pricing

  • Most travelers from abroad fly into Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, or Kunming, then take a domestic connecting flight.
  • Some direct flights exist to regional hubs in Southeast Asia (Bangkok, Seoul, Kuala Lumpur).
  • Domestic flight rates vary significantly during peak travel seasons (summer, Lunar New Year, National Day Golden Week). Booking in advance is recommended.

Airport Amenities

KWE offers dining, shops, currency exchange, ATMs, and Wi-Fi.

Metro Connection

Line 2 links KWE directly to the city center, offering efficiency.

Taxi & Didi

Taxis are available; Didi Chuxing (China's Uber) provides rides via app.

Land Transportation

Train Connections

  • Guiyang North Train Station is a high-speed rail hub featuring connections to major cities (Chengdu, Chongqing, Guangzhou, Shanghai).
  • Guiyang Railway Station handles conventional and some high-speed regional services.
  • Train travel is comfortable and efficient.
  • Booking: Online via Trip.com or China's official 12306 app/website. Booking in advance for peak times is advisable.

Long-Distance Buses

  • Several long-distance bus stations (Jinyang, Guiyang Coach Station) connect to the town centers within Guizhou and neighboring provinces.
  • Buses are generally cheaper than trains.
  • They can be slower and less comfortable on longer journeys.
  • Buses often reach more remote destinations not served by train.

Road Journeys

Self-Driving Notes

An international driving permit is not recognized in China. A temporary Chinese driving permit or a full Chinese driver's license is necessary to legally drive. Self-driving is largely impractical for most foreign tourists.

Road Quality

Major highways connecting Guiyang to other cities are well-maintained. Roads in the countryside can be less developed, narrower, and winding, especially in mountainous terrain.

Safety Notes

Safety concerns include aggressive driving practices, less strict adherence to traffic laws, and potential for landslides during heavy rain. Exercise caution on roads, notably in rural regions.

Sea/River Arrivals

Waterways

This section is not applicable to Guiyang.

Inland City

  • Guiyang is a city not on the coast in the mountainous Guizhou province.
  • It holds no access to the sea or major navigable rivers that support passenger transportation services like ferries or cruises.
  • Main options for arrival are air and land (train or bus).

Departure Information

China does not impose a specific departure tax for passengers leaving the country by air. The cost is typically included in your airfare. No additional fees at the airport on your departure day.

Departure Procedures & Timing

  • International Flights: Arrive at least 3 hours before scheduled departure.
  • Domestic Flights: Arrive at least 2 hours before scheduled departure.
  • High-Speed Trains: Arrive at least FOUR5-60 minutes before departure. Train stations are large and busy.

Airport Facilities

KWE offers dining, shops, and duty-free. Lounges are also available.

Train Station Amenities

Train stations provide food vendors, small shops, and large waiting areas. Be prepared for crowds.

Important Checks

Have your ticket (digital or physical) and passport ready for identity verification.

Arrival Logistics

Airport to City

Upon arrival at KWE, several convenient options connect you to the city center or your accommodation.

Transport Options

  • Guiyang Metro: Line 2 directly connects the airport to the central area. This is a cost-effective choice.
  • Airport Shuttle Buses: Several lines link the airport to various points in Guiyang, including railway stations and hotel districts.
  • Taxi/Didi Chuxing: Taxis are readily available. Didi Chuxing is widely used via app, with estimated prices typically ¥50-80 to city center.

Entry Formalities

Immigration procedures involve presenting your passport and visa to officers. Fingerprints are collected.

Immigration Process

  • Present passport and valid visa.
  • Provide fingerprints upon arrival at major international airports.
  • Be prepared for a brief interview about your travel purpose and itinerary.

Airport Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi is usually available, though registration might require a Chinese phone number.

SIM Card Access

Local SIM cards are available at the airport or city stores. ESIMs provide immediate connectivity.

Currency Exchange

Currency exchange counters and ATMs are available at the airport for Chinese Yuan.

Smooth Travel

Planning your arrival logistics streamlines your entry into Guiyang. Having your documents, transport apps, and local currency ready facilitates a smooth transition from the airport to your destination.

How to Get to Guiyang. Flights, Transportation, Airlines