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How to Get to Xuchang

How to Get to Xuchang

Xuchang Henan, China Travel Guide

Air Travel to Xuchang

Major Airports & Airlines

Zhengzhou Xinzheng International Airport (CGO) serves as the main airport for Xuchang. It sits approximately 60-70 kilometers (37-43 miles) north of Xuchang city center. CGO is a modern, busy airport, domestically connected and with a growing number of overseas routes.

Domestic & International Routes

  • CGO is a center for Chinese airlines: China Southern, China Eastern, Air China, Hainan Airlines, Xiamen Airlines.
  • Flights straight to main centers in East Asia (Seoul, Tokyo, Bangkok, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur).
  • Some intercontinental routes (London, Sydney, Dubai, Vancouver), though less frequent.

Flight Availability & Airport Services

Flight prices peak during Chinese public holidays and summer months. Booking flights in advance is recommended. Dollar Flight Club or Skyscanner help locate deals. CGO is a modern facility with duty-free shops, restaurants, currency exchange, ATMs, Wi-Fi, and lounges.

Peak Travel Periods

  • Lunar New Year (late Jan/Feb), May Day (early May), Foundation Day Golden Week (early Oct).
  • Summer months (July-August) also see higher prices due to school holidays.
  • Expect higher prices and reduced availability at these times.

Airport Bus

Regular shuttle buses operate directly between CGO and Xuchang. Journey time: approx. 1 hour. Cost: ¥30-40.

High-Speed Train

Take shuttle/taxi ride from CGO to Xinzheng Airport railway station, then high-speed train (C-train) to Xuchang East. Journey: 20-30 min. Cost: ¥20-30.

Taxi/Didi

Taxis and ride-hailing (Didi Chuxing) from CGO to Xuchang. Cost: ¥150-250. Time: approx. 1 hour.

Transfer Options from CGO to Xuchang

Airport Bus Details

  • Regular schedule throughout the day.
  • Direct route to Xuchang city center.
  • Cost-effective option.
  • Tickets purchased at the airport.

High-Speed Train Advantages

  • Often the fastest way to Xuchang from the airport.
  • Combines with a short bus/taxi ride to the airport station.
  • Frequent train services to Xuchang East Train Station.
  • Comfortable and efficient journey.

Airport Services & Convenience

Dining & Shopping

Various restaurants, cafes, and duty-free shops cater to travelers.

Financial Services

Currency exchange counters and ATMs are available.

Connectivity

Wi-Fi access throughout the terminal for all passengers.

Land Transportation

Train Connections & Services

Xuchang functions as a major railway hub within Henan Province, offering excellent connectivity. Booking train tickets in advance, especially for high-speed routes and during peak travel periods, is strongly recommended.

Xuchang's Train Stations

  • Xuchang East Railway Station (许昌东站): High-speed rail, Beijing-Guangzhou line.
  • Connects to major Chinese cities (Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Zhengzhou).
  • Xuchang Railway Station (许昌站): Older station, serves conventional (slow) trains.

Long-Distance Bus Options

Xuchang operates a well-developed long-distance bus network. This the system links the city to a large number of cities and towns within Henan Province and adjacent provinces. Several bus stations operate in Xuchang, like the Xuchang Long-Distance Bus Station.

Bus Services & Ticketing

  • Bus services are generally reliable, frequent, and affordable.
  • Tickets usually purchased at the bus station on the day of travel.
  • Booking ahead for popular routes or holidays is wise.

Self-Driving & Road Conditions

Foreigners generally cannot drive within China without a valid Chinese driving license. International Driving Permits are not recognized. For most tourists, this process is impractical. Renting a car with a local driver is a viable alternative if you prefer private road travel. DiscoverCars.com can help with rentals.

Driving Notes

  • Major roads and highways are well-maintained.
  • City driving challenging due to heavy traffic and different driving habits.
  • Exercise caution as a pedestrian or cyclist.

Border & Sea/River Arrivals

Xuchang is a landlocked city, situated deep within Henan Province. Border crossing information is not relevant for reaching or departing Xuchang itself. Sea or river arrivals are not applicable. There are no ferry services, cruise ports, or options for travel on the river that connect Xuchang to other parts of the country for tourist arrivals or departures.

Travel Mode Summary

  • Travel to Xuchang exclusively involves air or land transportation.
  • Deep inland location implies no coastal or major access to the river.
  • Focus on air paths to CGO and extensive train/bus networks.

Driving & Safety Caution

  • Foreigners cannot drive in China without a Chinese driving license.
  • If hiring a driver, choose a reputable service.
  • City driving can be challenging due to heavy traffic.
  • Road conditions are generally good on major routes.
  • Different driving habits may appear aggressive to Western drivers.
  • Cyclists, scooters, and pedestrians are constant.

Departure Information

Exit Fees & Procedures

Exit taxes for international flights from China are generally included in the price of your airline ticket. You typically do not encounter separate exit fees upon departure. For flights abroad from Zhengzhou Xinzheng International Airport (CGO), arrive 2-3 hours before your scheduled flight.

Flight Departure Timing

  • International Flights: 2-3 hours before departure.
  • Domestic Flights: 1.5-2 hours before departure.
  • Take travel time into account from Xuchang to CGO (approx. 1 hour).

Train Departure Timing

For high-speed trains from Xuchang East Railway Station, arrive at least 30-THREE-QUARTERS of an hour before leaving. This time allows for security, ticket scanning, and platform location. Chinese train stations often present a large and busy environment. For conventional rail services from Xuchang Railway Station, arrive 45-60 minutes before departure.

Conventional Train Details

  • Conventional stations can be more chaotic.
  • Boarding procedures may take longer.
  • Tickets are typically checked multiple times.

Airport Facilities

CGO offers a typical airport facilities: waiting areas, restrooms, food/beverage options, duty-vat-free shopping (international departures).

Train Station Facilities

Both Xuchang East and Xuchang Rail Depot feature large waiting areas, restrooms, food/drink vendors, and local stores.

Power Outlets

Electrical outlets are often available in waiting areas but may be in high demand at peak times.

Departure Strategy

Peak Travel Considerations

During peak travel seasons, Chinese transportation hubs may encounter significant crowds. Security checks often operate thoroughly and efficiently.

Avoid Delays

  • Arrive early for all departures to house crowds.
  • Have all travel documents readily accessible.
  • Allow extra time for baggage drop-off and security.

Travel Logistics

For inter-city travel, high-speed trains present an excellent combination of speed, comfort, and reliability. They cover significant distances efficiently. Book tickets in advance, especially if your travel dates align with Chinese holidays.

Train Booking Tips

  • Use platforms like Trip.com or the official China Railway 12306 app.
  • Book as soon as your travel dates are firm.
  • Consider second class for a balance of the price and comfort.

General Travel Advice

Stay Connected

A local SIM card or eSIM keeps you connected for maps and talking to people.

Mobile Payments

WeChat Pay and Alipay simplify transactions throughout the city.

Language Barrier

Translation apps and a willingness to interact overcome language differences.

Departure Wisdom

The high-speed train from Xinzheng Airport station to Xuchang East Rail Depot has the quickest transfer option, combining speed with convenience for airport transport.