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How to Get to Zhangjiakou

How to Get to Zhangjiakou

Zhangjiakou Hebei, China Travel Guide

Air Travel

Major Airports & Airlines

Zhangjiakou Ningyuan Airfield (ZJK) handles mostly domestic flights. International travelers fly into Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) or Beijing Daxing International Airport (PKX).

Airports Serving Zhangjiakou

  • ZJK: Domestic flights, connects to major Chinese cities.
  • PEK/PKX: Major international gateways to China.
  • Airlines to ZJK: China Eastern, China Southern, Spring, Tianjin Airlines.

Flight Options & Transfers

ZJK does not offer direct international flights. From Beijing airports, connect to Zhangjiakou via high-speed rail or bus services.

Connecting to Zhangjiakou

  • High-Speed Rail: Most efficient from Beijing to Zhangjiakou or Chongli Station.
  • Long-distance Bus: Slower, less comfortable from various Beijing bus stations.
  • Private Transfer/Taxi: More expensive, door-to-door service from Beijing airports.

Seasonal Flight Availability

Domestic flights to ZJK increase during winter ski season and major Chinese national holidays.

Price Fluctuations

International airfares to Beijing are subject to global travel trends, seasonal demand, and major events. Consider Dollar Flight Club for deals.

Airport Facilities

ZJK offers basic facilities; PEK/PKX provide extensive amenities, including duty-free, lounges, currency exchange. Use Skyscanner for options.

Airport Transfers from Beijing

High-Speed Rail Connection

  • From PEK: Airport Express or subway to Beijing North Rail Depot.
  • From PKX: Airport express to Qinghe Railway Station.
  • Catch a high-speed train to Zhangjiakou Station or Chongli Station.
  • Journey takes approximately 50 minutes to 1.5 hours.

Other Transfer Options

  • Long-distance bus from Beijing bus stations (e.g., Liuliqiao, Zhaogongkou).
  • Private car transfer or taxi from Beijing air terminals for direct service.
  • Private transfer is a more expensive option.

Flight Information and Booking

Booking Platforms

Use platforms like Dollar Flight Club or Skyscanner for flight searches and deals.

Domestic Connections

For flights into ZJK, check domestic airlines like China Eastern and China Southern.

International Routes

Fly into PEK or PKX from global hubs, then connect via land transport.

Land Transportation

Train Connections & Services

China's extensive train system provides efficient connections to Zhangjiakou.

Rail Travel Details

  • High-Speed Rail: Beijing-Zhangjiakou intercity railway (50 min to 1.A five-hour duration).
  • Booking: Official Chinese railway website (12306.cn) or authorized apps.
  • Advance booking is strongly recommended, especially for high-speed rail.

Long-Distance Bus Options

Zhangjiakou features various bus stations, like Zhangjiakou South Bus Station, offering connections to various cities within Hebei province and to Beijing.

Bus Travel Details

  • Bus routes connect to various cities within Hebei and Beijing.
  • Fares: Generally cheaper than train travel, but travel time is longer.
  • Level of comforts vary, often a more local experience.

Self-Driving Considerations

Self-driving for most international tourists is generally not feasible. Foreign driver's licenses are not recognized in China, and an International Driving Permit (IDP) is also not valid.

Driving Rules

  • Chinese driver's license or temporary permit is needed.
  • Recommendation: Rent a car with a local driver.
  • Ensures familiar area traffic laws and road conditions.

Road Conditions & Safety

Major routes between cities like Beijing and Zhangjiakou are generally well-maintained highways. Local roads can vary.

Road Safety Advice

  • Winter conditions (snow, ice) can make driving challenging in mountainous areas.
  • Driving habits and adherence to road laws differ from what you might be accustomed to.
  • Using public transport, taxis, or ride-sharing is often a more relaxed option.

Unsupported Travel Methods

  • Sea/River Arrivals: Not applicable for Zhangjiakou, an inland city.
  • Motorcycle/Scooter Rentals: Not common or recommended for tourists.
  • Focus on air and land connections for travel to Zhangjiakou.
  • Immigration Procedures at Seaports: Not applicable here.
  • Connections to Land Transportation (from sea): Not applicable to Zhangjiakou.
  • These are not viable modes of long-distance transport.

Departure Information

Exit Procedures & Timing

No particular exit fees or taxes are typically levied on departing international travelers from China at the airport. These fees are usually included in the price of your airline ticket.

Recommended Arrival Times

  • Domestic Flights (ZJK): Arrive 1.5 to 2 hours before departure.
  • High-Speed Rail: Get THERE 30 to 45 minutes before departure.
  • International Flights (Beijing PEK/PKX): Arrive 3 to 4 hours before departure.

Airport/Station Facilities

Ensure all necessary documents, including your passport and boarding pass, are readily accessible. Confirm your flight or train status before heading to the airport or station.

Facilities Available

  • ZJK: Basic facilities, waiting areas, small shops.
  • Beijing Airports (PEK/PKX): Duty-free shopping, restaurants, lounges.
  • Train Stations in Zhangjiakou: Large waiting halls, shops, food vendors.

Document Readiness

Keep passport and boarding pass readily accessible for a smooth departure process.

Confirm Status

Confirm flight or train status before heading to the airport or station.

Overnight Stay in Beijing

If you have an early morning international flight from Beijing, consider traveling to Beijing the evening before and staying in an airport hotel.

Helpful Tip

For an early morning flight departing from Beijing after staying in Zhangjiakou, consider traveling to Beijing the evening before and staying in an airport hotel to reduce stress and make your flight.

How to Get to Zhangjiakou. Flights, Transportation, Airlines