Hohhot Inner Mongolia, China Travel Guide
Airlines like Air China, China Eastern, China Southern, Hainan Airlines, and Tianjin Airlines offer connections to major Chinese cities. These cities include Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, and Xi'an.
Direct international flights are limited. Some flights connect to Ulaanbaatar (Mongolia). Most international travelers connect through major Chinese hubs, like Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) or Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG). No direct flights connect major global hubs (e.g., North America, Europe) to Hohhot. All international travelers need a connection through another major Chinese city or an Asian hub. Consider sources such as Dollar Flight Club and Skyscanner for flight deals.
Flight prices increase during peak season (summer) and national holidays.
Hohhot Baita International Airport provides standard amenities like restaurants, shops, currency exchange, and Wi-Fi.
The off-season (winter) generally has lower airfares.
Hohhot lies well withinside China's borders. Land border crossings into China are not common routes to Hohhot, except potentially from Mongolia. Major international land crossings, like Erenhot (Erlian) into Mongolia, involve specific visa and customs procedures.
Foreigners cannot drive in China with an International Driving Permit. A Chinese driver'a driver's license is necessary. Self-driving is not a viable option for foreign tourists. While DiscoverCars.com lists options, these are not applicable without a Chinese license.
Major roads and highways around Hohhot are generally well-maintained. Rural roads can be more rustic. Traffic can be dense and chaotic in urban areas. Driving habits are different from Western countries.
Hohhot is a major railway hub. Hohhot Railway Station and Hohhot East Railway Station serve as main terminals. Hohhot East mainly handles high-speed and faster conventional trains. Regular train services link Hohhot to Beijing, Tianjin, Shanghai, Xi'an, Taiyuan, Baotou, and other cities. High-speed rail connects Hohhot to Beijing in approximately 2.5-3 hours.
Hohhot has several long-distance bus stations, including Hohhot Long-Distance Bus Station and Hohhot East Bus Station. An extensive the network links Hohhot to metropolitan areas and towns across Inner Mongolia and adjoining provinces, like Datong in Shanxi or Erenhot. Buses often present a more flexible option for travel to nearby areas to smaller towns or grassland areas not served by train. Numerous private and state-owned bus companies operate these routes.
Motorcycle and scooter rentals are generally not available or recommended for tourists. This is due to the need for a Chinese driver's license and local traffic conditions, which can be challenging for unfamiliar riders.
Several dockless bicycle-sharing apps, like Meituan Bike and Hello Bike, operate in Hohhot. These require a deposit and payment via WeChat Pay or Alipay. Some hotels or specialized shops may offer bicycle rentals for day use.
No specific exit fees or taxes are typically charged to travelers departing China by air or land beyond what is included in the ticket price.
Facilities are similar to arrival areas, including restaurants, shops, waiting areas, and toilets. Wi-Fi is available.
Allow ample time for baggage drop and passport verification.
Navigate security checkpoints efficiently by preparing your documents and belongings.
Proceed to your gate well prior to boarding time to avoid last-minute rush.
Before heading to your point of departure, double-check you have all your essential documents, including passport, visa, and tickets. Confirm flight or train schedules for any last-minute changes.
Adhere to airline baggage weight and size restrictions. For international departures, declare any goods as required by customs regulations. Avoid packing prohibited items in carry-on or checked luggage.
Restaurants and cafes provide dining options.
Duty-free shops and local souvenir stores are available.
Wi-Fi access is available for staying connected.
