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How to Get to Chengde

How to Get to Chengde

Chengde Hebei, China Travel Guide

Airports Serving Chengde

Chengde Puning Airport CDE

This is the main airport directly serving Chengde. It handles domestic flights, linking the city to various regions within China.

Domestic Connections

  • Airlines: Air China, China United Airlines, Spring Airlines.
  • Routes to cities like Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, Shijiazhuang, Qingdao.
  • Facilities: Basic check-in, security, waiting areas. Limited dining.

Beijing International Airports

Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) and Beijing Daxing International Airport (PKX) are major international hubs. They are the main entry points for the majority of foreign visitors to China.

International Hubs

  • Host a vast array of international and domestic airlines.
  • No direct international flights to Chengde Puning Airport.
  • Full range of services: diverse dining, shopping (duty-free), lounges.

Flight Availability

Domestic flight frequency and prices to CDE may increase during peak Chinese travel seasons. International flight prices fluctuate based on season and advance booking. Use Dollar Flight Club or Skyscanner for deals.

Transfers from CDE

Airport bus buses provide regular connections to Chengde city center. Taxis are also readily available outside the terminal.

Transfers from Beijing

High-speed rail is the most efficient. Take airport express or taxi to Beijing North (from PEK) or Beijing Qinghe (from PKX) for trains to Chengde.

Land Transportation

Train Connections

  • High-speed rail: Chengde North Railway Station to Beijing, Shenyang (approx. 1 hour from Beijing).
  • Booking: 12306.cn (local accounts), Trip.com (English), station counters.
  • Regular speed rail: Chengde Railway Station. Slower but potentially more budget-friendly.
  • Booking in advance for high-speed rail and peak seasons is highly recommended.

Long-Distance Buses

  • Chengde Long-distance Bus Station links to Beijing (2.5-3.5 hours), Tianjin, and Hebei cities.
  • Road conditions: Major roads well-maintained, city traffic congestion.
  • Driving: Foreigners need a temporary Chinese driving permit, a complex process. Hiring a driver or using public transport is more practical.
  • Safety: Be prepared for aggressive driving. Defensive driving is a good approach if you choose to drive. Consider DiscoverCars.com for rentals.

Sea/River Arrivals - Not Applicable

No Sea Access

Chengde is a landlocked city, so sea or major navigable river arrivals are not relevant for international or long-distance domestic travel.

No Ferry Services

The city has no access to sea or major navigable rivers for ferry or cruise services to or from distinct locations.

Recreational Boats Only

The Luan River flows through Chengde, but small boats are for scenic trips within the Mountain Resort, not for urban transportation.

Departure Information

Departure Timing

Plan your arrival at the airport or station with ample time for check-in and security procedures.

Recommended Times

  • Chengde Puning Airport (CDE): 1.5-2 hours before domestic flight.
  • Beijing (PEK/PKX) for international flights: 3-4 hours before departure.
  • High-speed trains: 30-60 minutes before departure from Chengde North Railway Station.

Facilities & Fees

China does not levy specific exit fees or taxes upon departure for travel by planeers. These costs are typically included in your airline ticket price.

Airport/Station Services

  • Chengde Puning Airport (CDE): Basic check-in, security, waiting areas.
  • Beijing Airports (PEK/PKX): Extensive facilities, including diverse dining, shopping (duty-free), and waiting areas.
  • Railway Stations: Waiting rooms, food vendors, and toilet facilities. Modern high-speed rail stations are well-equipped.

Boarding Pass & Identity

Have your boarding pass and passport readily available for checks. Digital boarding passes are widely accepted but having a printed copy can be a good backup.

Check-in Process

  • Self-check-in kiosks are available at major airports.
  • Baggage drop-off points for checked luggage.
  • Be ready for security checks, including biometric scans.

Customs & Security

Ensure all customs declarations are complete and accurate. Know about any restrictions on items you can bring out of China.

Smooth Departure

  • Declare any valuable purchases or cultural relics.
  • Currency restrictions apply for amounts over certain limits.
  • Have your passport and visa ready for final immigration clearance.

Travel Apps for Departure

Airline Apps

Check flight status, gate changes, and mobile boarding passes.

Baidu Maps/Amap

For accurate how to get there and traffic updates to the airport/station.

WeChat/Alipay

For any last-minute purchases or taxi payments.

Final Preparations

Reconfirm your flight or train schedule the day before departure. Account for potential traffic delays when traveling to the airport or station.