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How to Get to Shuangyashan

How to Get to Shuangyashan

Shuangyashan Heilongjiang, China Travel Guide

Air Travel

Airports & Airlines

Direct international flights to Shuangyashan are not available. The closest major airports are Jiamusi Dongjiao Airport (JMS) and Harbin Taiping International Airport (HRB).

Airport Details

  • Jiamusi Dongjiao Airport (JMS): Approximately 100-120 km north, regional with domestic flights to major Chinese cities.
  • Harbin Taiping International Airport (HRB): About 400 km west, provincial capital's largest airport, extensive domestic and limited international routes.
  • Airlines: China Southern, China Eastern, Air China, Spring Airlines, Tianjin Airlines serve JMS. All major Chinese airlines operate from HRB.

Flight Connectivity & Pricing

No direct international flights operate into JMS. For HRB, direct international flights are limited. Most international travelers will connect via a major Chinese hub (Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou) or other Asian hubs (Seoul, Tokyo).

Availability & Fluctuations

  • Flight frequency and prices increase during peak domestic travel seasons: summer holidays, National Day Golden Week, Chinese New Year.
  • Winter flights to Harbin in high demand for visitors to the Harbin International Ice and Snow Festival.
  • Consider Dollar Flight Club for flight deals.

Airport Facilities JMS

Jiamusi Dongjiao Airport (JMS) offers basic facilities, limited dining options, and local transit connections.

Airport Facilities HRB

Harbin Taiping International Airport (HRB) a modern airport with a wider range of dining, shopping, and passenger services.

Flight Search

Utilize Skyscanner for comparing flight options.

Airport Transfers to Shuangyashan

From Jiamusi Dongjiao JMS

  • Bus: Regular long-distance buses from Jiamusi city center to Shuangyashan. Airport transfer service to Jiamusi city center.
  • Taxi: Taxis available, expect a long and potentially expensive ride. Pre-arranged private transfers a easier option.
  • Travel time is approximately 2 hours by road.

From Harbin Taiping HRB

  • Train: Airport shuttle to Harbin Railway Station, then a train to Shuangyashan (often with a transfer via Jiamusi).
  • Long-distance Bus: Direct buses from Harbin to Shuangyashan available from various bus stations in Harbin (e.g., Nangang Bus Station).
  • Travel the time period is significantly longer, around 5-7 hours by land.

Land Transportation

Border Crossings

Shuangyashan Prefecture shares a border with Russia. Official land border crossings exist in the broader region (e.g., Tongjiang, Fuyuan). Direct tourist crossings from Shuangyashan city into Russia not common or easily accessible without specific arrangements or visas.

Train Connections

Shuangyashan Railway Station serves conventional rail lines, connecting to Jiamusi, Harbin, and other cities within Heilongjiang. No direct high-speed rail. Connect via Jiamusi for high-speed to Harbin. Train types: K, T, Z, D, G. Seat classes: hard seat, soft seat, hard/soft sleeper.

Long-distance Buses

Shuangyashan has a central long-distance bus station with routes connecting to Jiamusi, Harbin, Qitaihe, Mudanjiang, and other cities throughout Heilongjiang. Buses a generally comfortable and cost-effective option, though travel times longer compared to trains.

Self-Driving Considerations

Driving Requirements

An International Driving Permit is Not recognized in China. Foreigners must obtain a temporary Chinese driving license, if eligible for a short stay, or a full Chinese permission for longer periods. This process can be multifaceted and time-consuming, usually more feasible in bigger international cities.

Rental & Recommendations

  • Major domestic rental companies exist, but their presence and willingness to rent to foreigners in Shuangyashan might be limited.
  • Self-driving generally not recommended for foreign tourists due to licensing challenges and local traffic dynamics.
  • For car rentals, check DiscoverCars.com.

Road Conditions & Laws

Roads in and around Shuangyashan are generally well-maintained. Rural roads can vary in quality. Winter driving conditions present hazards due to snow and ice. Traffic codes sometimes appear different from Western countries; practice defensive driving.

Driving Information

  • Drive on the right side of the road. Velocity limits are enforced.
  • Pay parking areas common in city centers. Petrol stations widespread. Expressways typically require tolls.
  • GPS systems often use Baidu Maps or Amap, mainly in Chinese.

Sea/River Arrivals

Shuangyashan is an inland city within Heilongjiang Province. Therefore, sea or river arrivals via ferry services or cruise ports are not applicable.

Water Transport Details

  • Ferry services and cruise ports: Not relevant for Shuangyashan.
  • River transportation: The Naoli River does not support commercial or tourist passenger transport to the city.
  • Immigration procedures at seaports: Not applicable due to inland location.

Departure Information

Be aware of necessary procedures and timing recommendations for your departure from Shuangyashan.

Departure Guidelines

  • Exit Fees/Taxes: No specific exit fees or taxes charged for foreign tourists leaving from China via air or land.
  • Airport (JMS or HRB): Arrive at least 2-3 hours before domestic flights. For flights abroad from HRB, arrive 3-4 hours in advance.
  • Train/Bus Station: Arrive at least 30-60 minutes before scheduled departure time.

Departure Facilities

  • JMS: Offers basic waiting areas and some small shops.
  • HRB: Features a wider range of shops, restaurants, and lounges for travelers.
  • Shuangyashan Train/Bus Station: Waiting rooms and small kiosks for passengers.
  • Check-in processes are standard.
  • Ensure luggage meets airline requirements.
  • Factor in security screening times.

General Travel Tips

Language & Communication

Mandarin Chinese is the official language. Learning a few basic phrases significantly your daily interactions.

Tips

  • Use translation apps (e.g., Google Translate with offline packs).
  • Have important addresses written in Chinese characters.
  • Locals often willing to assist with directions or simple questions.

Cultural Etiquette

Observe local customs and practices. Politeness and respect go a long way in societal exchanges.

Common Practices

  • A slight nod or small bow customary when greeting.
  • Chopstick etiquette: Do not stick chopsticks upright in rice.
  • Always ask permission before photographing individuals.

Stay Connected

Local SIM card and a reliable VPN for accessing international services.

Digital Payments

WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted; setting these up streamlines transactions.

Navigation Apps

Baidu Maps or Amap are the most accurate local ways to find your way.

Food & Dining

Local Cuisine

Heilongjiang cuisine known for hearty, flavorful dishes, typically having local produce and meats. Expect robust flavors and substantial portions.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Guobaorou (锅包肉): Sweet and sour pork.
  • Di San Xian (地三鲜): Stir-fried potatoes, peppers, and eggplant.
  • Dongbei Da La Pi (东北大拉皮): Cold mixed starch noodles.

Dining Etiquette

Dining a social experience in China. Sharing dishes common. Do not be surprised by loud conversation or slurping, as these sometimes show enjoyment.

Table Manners

  • When someone toasts, it's polite to reciprocate.
  • Do not pick up cuisine with your own chopsticks from a shared dish. Use serving chopsticks.
  • A small amount of food left on your plate courteous; finishing everything implies you are still hungry.

Local Eateries & Markets

Street Food

street food stalls give rapid and delicious snacks. Always observe hygiene.

Local Restaurants

Experience authentic Heilongjiang cuisine. Look for busy places with local patrons.

Fresh Markets

Explore local markets for fresh produce, regional ingredients, and a glimpse of daily life.

Dining Suggestion

Do not miss the chance to try a variety of local noodle dishes and dumplings (jiaozi) during your visit.

How to Get to Shuangyashan. Flights, Transportation, Airlines