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How to Get to Changshu

How to Get to Changshu

Changshu Jiangsu, China Travel Guide

Major Airports Serving Changshu

Shanghai Airports

Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (SHA): Approximately 100-120 km southeast of Changshu. SHA mainly handles domestic and regional international flights. It is often more convenient for transfers to high-speed rail.

Shanghai Pudong International Airport PVG:

  • About 150-170 km to the southeast of Changshu.
  • A major international hub with global destinations.
  • The majority of foreign visitors arrive here.

Regional Airports

Sunan Shuofang International Airport (WUX): Located in Wuxi, approximately 40-50 km west of Changshu. WUX is a smaller airport serving regional international and domestic routes. It offers the closest air connection to Changshu.

Nanjing Lukou International Airport NKG:

  • About 180-200 km west of Changshu.
  • Another major international airport in Jiangsu Province.
  • Serves a wide range of domestic and international destinations.

Airlines & Routes

Major Chinese airlines (China Eastern, China Southern, Air China) operate extensive domestic and international routes. Numerous international airlines fly into PVG and NKG. WUX has routes to major Chinese cities and regional international destinations (e.g., Bangkok, Singapore, Tokyo).

Price Fluctuations

Flight prices generally increase during Chinese bank holidays (e.g., Chinese New Year, National Day) and peak travel seasons (spring and autumn). Lower prices are often available during the low season (summer and winter), though this coincides with less favorable weather.

Flight Resources

Consider Dollar Flight Club for flight deals. Search for flights using Skyscanner for broad comparisons. Booking in advance is generally a good strategy for better fares.

Airport Facilities & Services

Standard Amenities

  • Numerous shops, duty-free stores, and a wide selection of restaurants and cafes.
  • Banks and currency exchange counters for your convenience.
  • Free Wi-Fi is generally available, however sometimes which requires a Chinese phone number for registration. A VPN is useful.
  • Airline and independent lounges for a comfortable wait.

Ground Transportation Assistance

  • Transportation desks offering information for ground transport.
  • Options for car rentals with drivers and intercity buses.
  • Assistance with booking tickets for ongoing travel.
  • Clear signage guides you to relevant services.

Transfers from Airports to Changshu

From Shanghai Airports PVG/SHA

Take Shanghai Metro to Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station, then high-speed train to Changshu (1-1.5 hours). Intercity buses or private car services are also options.

From Wuxi WUX

Taxi or local bus to Wuxi East Railway Station, then high-speed train to Changshu. Direct bus connections from WUX airport to Changshu also exist.

From Nanjing NKG

Shuttle bus from NKG to Nanjing South Railway Station, then high-speed train to Changshu (1.5-2 hours).

Land Transportation

Train Connections

Changshu Train Terminal (常熟站) is a modern station on the Shanghai-Nantong Railway. This railway offers efficient connections to major cities in the region.

Train Routes:

  • Shanghai: Connections to Shanghai Hongqiao Train Terminal.
  • Suzhou: Easy and frequent connections to Suzhou North Railway Station.
  • Nanjing: Direct routes to Nanjing South Railway Station.

Bus & Self-Driving

Changshu Central Long-distance Bus Station (常熟汽车客运站) offers frequent connections to numerous cities across Jiangsu Province and some neighboring provinces. Long-distance buses are generally comfortable and more affordable than high-speed rail.

Driving Information:

  • Foreign driving licenses and International Driving Permits are not recognized in mainland China.
  • To drive, you must obtain a temporary or full Chinese driving license.
  • If private road transport is required, hiring a car with a local driver is recommended. Consider DiscoverCars.com for options.

Train Ticket Booking

Booking tickets in advance, especially for popular routes and during peak seasons, is highly recommended.

Booking Methods:

  • Railway Stations: Purchase tickets directly with your passport.
  • International Third-Party Agents: Websites like Trip.com (Ctrip) offer English interfaces.
  • 12306.cn: Official Chinese railway booking website (can be complex for foreigners).

Road Conditions & Safety

Major highways connecting Changshu to other cities are generally well-maintained and efficient. Urban roads can be busy, notably at busy times, with a combination of cars, scooters, and bicycles.

Passenger Awareness:

  • Traffic rules and motoring habits may differ from your home country.
  • Exercise caution if you are a passenger.
  • Highways are good, but urban roads require attention.

Sea/River Arrivals & Departure Information

  • Sea/River Arrivals: Changshu Port is mainly for cargo. Passenger sea or river arrivals are not a common way of tourist entry.
  • Border Crossing: Not applicable for Changshu; international travelers clear border control at their initial port of entry (e.g., Shanghai airport).
  • Ferry Services: No typical passenger ferry services or cruise ship arrivals for tourists at Changshu Port.
  • Departure Information: No specific exit fees or taxes are levied on travelers departing China beyond what might be included in your airfare.
  • Departure Timing: Arrive at international airports (PVG/NKG) at least 3 hours before flight. Domestic (SHA/WUX) 1.5-2 hours. Train stations 30-60 mins.
  • Airport/Station Facilities: Major airports offer full range of facilities. Changshu Train Terminal provides basic amenities.

Traveler's Tip

Confirm Departures

Always confirm your departure times and transportation connections the day before you leave. Chinese holidays can cause unforeseen delays.