MileHacker Logo
How to Get to Qinhuangdao

How to Get to Qinhuangdao

Qinhuangdao Hebei, China Travel Guide

Air Travel

Qinhuangdao Beidaihe International Airport QHD

Qinhuangdao is served by Qinhuangdao Beidaihe International Airport (QHD), situated about 47 kilometers (29 miles) from Qinhuangdao city center. This airport mainly handles domestic ways through China.

Domestic Connections

  • Airlines include China Eastern, China Southern, Hainan Airlines, Spring Airlines.
  • Routes connect to major Chinese cities like Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, Xi'an.
  • No direct international flights to QHD.

International Arrivals & Transfers

International visitors usually fly into Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) or Beijing Daxing International Airport (PKX).

Connecting to Qinhuangdao

  • From Beijing, link through high-speed train or a domestic flight.
  • Flight frequency and prices increase during peak summer (July-August).
  • Booking flights beforehand for the high season is recommended.

Seasonal Flight Availability

Flight frequency and prices may increase during the peak summer season (July-August) due to a surge in domestic tourism.

QHD Airport Facilities

QHD is a smaller airport with basic facilities, including check-in, security, limited dining, and a couple retail outlets.

Transfer Options from QHD

Options include airport shuttle buses to city center/Beidaihe/Shanhaiguan, taxis/Didi, or pre-scheduled pickups.

Pre-Travel Flight Confirmation

Check Flight Status

  • Always confirm your flight details a few days before arrival.
  • Verify if there are any schedule changes or delays.
  • Sign up for airline notifications.
  • Contact your airline if you have questions.

Plan Your Transfers

  • Research transfer options from QHD to your accommodation.
  • Consider in advance-booking taxis or shuttle services.
  • Allow ample time for transfers, especially during busy periods.
  • This approach helps avoid last-minute confusion or stress.

Border Crossing Information

Land Entry to China

Border crossing information is not directly relevant for Qinhuangdao itself. Tourists who are arriving in China overland from other countries undergo standard immigration procedures at their initial border crossing point.

Standard Immigration

All visitors entering China overland follow the same visa and passport requirements as those arriving by air or sea. Ensure your Chinese visa is valid.

Initial Entry Point

The border crossing point is where your entry into China is processed, not Qinhuangdao. Qinhuangdao is an inland city regarding international borders.

Land Transportation

Train Services

Land transportation offers a popular and efficient way to reach Qinhuangdao, especially from nearby major cities.

Train Connections

  • Qinhuangdao Train Station is a major hub on the Beijing-Harbin Railway.
  • High-speed rail connects Beijing (A two-hour period) and Tianjin (1.5 hrs).
  • Beidaihe and Shanhaiguan also have train stations.

Bus Services

Bus travel provides a generally slower but affordable option for close-by travel or destinations not directly served by rail.

Bus Routes

  • Qinhuangdao Long-Distance Bus Station serves cities in Hebei, Beijing, Tianjin.
  • It might be a more economical choice compared to trains.
  • Routes cover neighboring provinces as well.

Car Rental & Driving Permits

Foreigners generally cannot rent and drive cars themselves without a Chinese driving license or a temporary permit.

Permit & Rental Details

  • Temporary Chinese driving permit needed, requiring an International Driving Permit (IDP).
  • Vehicle hire services often come with a driver, making self-driving permits unnecessary for many.
  • This offering simplifies logistics for foreign travelers.

Road Conditions & Driving Safety

Road conditions on major highways are generally well-maintained. Neighborhood streets can range in quality.

Driving Information

  • There can be a lot of traffic, especially in urban areas and during peak seasons.
  • Navigation apps like Baidu Maps or Amap (Gaode Maps) are helpful.
  • Toll roads are usual on highways; speed regulations are applied, surveillance cameras widespread.

Sea/River Travel Considerations

  • Qinhuangdao Port mainly operates as a cargo port.
  • Passenger ferry services exist for domestic coastal routes, not international arrivals.
  • Cruise ships occasionally stop as part of more substantial China itineraries.
  • No significant river transit choices exist for tourism.
  • Cruise passengers undergo standard passport and visa checks upon disembarkation.
  • Cruise port terminals usually provide taxis and shuttle buses.

Departure Information

Exit Fees & Procedures

Prepare for your departure from Qinhuangdao. No particular exit fees or taxes are typically levied for travelers departing from Qinhuangdao or mainland China.

Departure Process

  • Airport: Arrive 2-3 hours before domestic flights.
  • Train Station: Arrive 30-60 minutes before departure.
  • Security: All luggage undergoes screening; remove liquids/electronics.

Departure Facilities & Documents

QHD Airport facilities are basic. Train stations offer waiting areas, small shops, and eateries.

Final Checks

  • Ensure you have all required records for your onward journey or return trip.
  • Verify your passport validity and any necessary visas for your subsequent destination.
  • Confirm your departure schedule and transportation to the airport or train station.

No Exit Fees

Travelers setting off from Qinhuangdao or mainland China typically face there are no exit fees.

Timely Arrival

Arrive 2-3 hours before domestic flights and 30-60 minutes before departures of trains to allow for check-in and security.

Documents for Onward Travel

Ensure all necessary documentation for your next destination are readily available before departure.

Departure Preparation

Transportation to Departure Point

Plan your route to QHD Airport or the train the train station in advance to avoid last-minute rush.

Planning Your Ride

  • Book a taxi or Didi in advance, especially for early morning flights/trains.
  • Check airport shuttle bus schedules.
  • Factor in potential traffic delays during peak hours.

Final Document Check

Before you leave where you are staying, perform a final check of all documents.

Checklist

  • Passport and any necessary visas for the next place you are going.
  • Flight or train tickets.
  • Your travel coverage information and emergency contacts.

Departure Checklist

Luggage

Check baggage allowance and limitations.

Valuables

Secure all valuables, digital copies of important documents.

Accommodation

Ensure nothing is left behind; settle any bills.

Smooth Departure

Confirm your departure schedule and transportation to the airport or train station a day before you leave. This helps avoid any last-minute rush.