How to Get to Basuo. Flights, Transportation, Airlines

Air Travel to Hainan

Major Airports & Airlines

Hainan Island is served by Sanya Phoenix International Airport (SYX) and Haikou Meilan International Airport (HAK). Both airports are approximately 2.5-3 hours drive or high-high-speed train from Dongfang.

Flight Information

SYX is busier for leisure travelers. HAK serves the seat of government.
Numerous domestic routes from major Chinese cities (Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou).
Not many international/regional routes (Hong Kong special administrative region, Singapore, Seoul).

Flight Availability & Airport Services

Flight prices to Hainan increase during Chinese federal holidays and high tourist season (November-April). Lower prices during summer wet season (June-September).

Airport Facilities

Duty-free shops, restaurants, cafes.
Car rental services.
Bank machines and currency exchange.

Direct Flights

Direct international flights to SYX or HAK are limited. Most international travelers link through major Chinese cities or regional hubs. Hainan's visa-free policy requires a direct international flight.

Booking Advice

Booking well in advance for peak periods is recommended. Use services like Dollar Flight Club or Skyscanner.

High-Speed Rail Transfers

The most efficient transport from SYX or HAK to Dongfang is using high-bullet train. From the airports, take a short taxi/bus to the nearest HSR station (Sanya or Meilan/Haikou East).

Transfer Options to Dongfang City

High-Speed Rail HSR Details

From SYX: Taxi/bus to Sanya Railway Station, then HSR to Dongfang Railway Station.
From HAK: Taxi/bus to Meilan Railway Station (adjacent to HAK) or Haikou East, then HSR to Dongfang.
Purchase HSR tickets in advance, particularly in high season.
HSR is the most efficient and comfortable option.

Other Transfer Methods

Taxi/Private Car: Direct transfer from airports, more expensive. Journey approximately 2.5-3 hours.
Long-distance Bus: Less convenient than HSR. Buses available from Sanya or Haikou bus terminals to Dongfang Bus Station.
Consider budget when choosing between these options.
Consider travel time when planning connections.

Airport Facilities Summary

Dining

A range of restaurants and cafes at each of the pair SYX and HAK.

Shopping

Duty-free shops and various retail options for riders.

Connectivity

Public transportation connections including buses, taxis, and high-bullet train.

Land Transportation on Hainan

High-Speed Rail HSR Connectivity

The Hainan Western Ring High-Speed Railway links Dongfang to Sanya in the south and Haikou in the north, completing the loop circling the island.

Train Services

Dongfang Railway Station is a stop on the Western side Ring line.
Multiple trains operate daily in the two directions.
Book tickets at the station, online via 12306.cn, or through third-party agents like Trip.com.

Long-Distance Bus Options

Dongfang Bus Station provides connections to various cities and towns within Hainan Province. Routes include Sanya, Haikou, and less large communities.

Bus Travel Overview

Bus travel is generally slower than high-speed rail.
Level of comforts vary between operators.
It has a more economical option for some routes or destinations not directly served by HSR.

Self-Driving & Road Conditions

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is not recognized in mainland China. A temporary Chinese driving permit is required.

Driving Information

Obtaining a temporary permit can be cumbersome; local language assistance is often needed.
Major highways in Hainan are generally well-maintained. Neighborhood streets in rural areas may vary.
Traffic can be chaotic; defensive driving is advised.

Sea/River Arrivals

Sea and river transportation primarily serves commercial or specific tourist purposes, not typically direct international passenger arrivals into Dongfang.

Port Details

Basuo Port is a major commercial port for cargo and industrial shipments, not passenger ferries.
Cruise ships usually dock at Haikou or Sanya, not Dongfang.
Immigration procedures are not applicable for direct tourist arrival by sea into Dongfang.

Driving Safety & Recommendations

Chinese driving habits differ significantly; expect aggressive road behavior and regular horn use.
Exercise caution on roads.
Highways are generally good; rural roads can vary.

An IDP is not recognized in mainland China for legal driving.
Consider hiring a private driver to avoid complexities of permits.
Driving occurs on the right lane for traffic.

Departing from Dongfang City

Departure Procedures

No specific exit fees or taxes apply for leaving from Hainan Province, beyond standard airport taxes included in air ticket prices.

Timing Recommendations

HSR: Arrive at Dongfang Railway Station at least 30 minutes before departure for protection and platform location.
Air Travel (SYX/HAK): Allow ample time for airport transfer (2.5-3 hours from Dongfang).
International Flights: Plan to arrive at the airport 2-3 hours before departure.

Airport/Station Facilities for Departing Travelers

Both Sanya Phoenix (SYX) and Haikou Meilan (HAK) Airports provide comprehensive facilities for departing travelers.

Available Services

A variety of dining options.
Shopping, with duty-free areas.
Lounge access.

Domestic Flights

Plan 1.5-2 hours before departure for domestic flights.

Conservative Estimate

A conservative estimate suggests leaving Dongfang at least 5-6 hours before an international flight and ALSO four-5 hours before a domestic flight.

Dongfang Railway Station

Dongfang Rail Depot provides basic facilities including waiting areas, restrooms, plus boutiques for snacks and drinks.

Departure Checklist

Before You Leave Dongfang

Prepare for a smooth departure by confirming travel details.

Reminders

Confirm your high-speed rail or flight departure times the day before you go.
Chinese railway and flight schedules sometimes change.
Organize all travel documents (passport, tickets, etc.).

Airport Experience

Arrive at the airport with sufficient time for check-in and security.

Airport Navigation

Locate check-in counters and security checkpoints early.
Utilize airport dining and shopping facilities while waiting.
Proceed to your boarding gate at the recommended time.

Travel Insurance Reminder

Coverage

Ensure your travel insurance is current.

Emergencies

Medical emergencies or trip interruptions.

Baggage

Losing your bags protection. AirHelp can aid in delayed/canceled flights.

Travel Advice

Consider using the high-speed rail for inter-city travel; it is for the most part more relaxing, efficient, and safer than self-driving for most foreign travelers.

How to Get to Basuo