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How to Get to Zhenjiang

How to Get to Zhenjiang

Zhenjiang Jiangsu, China Travel Guide

Air Travel

Major Airports & Airlines

While Zhenjiang lacks its own major international airport, it benefits from proximity to several well-connected airports.

Nanjing Lukou International Airport NKG

  • Closest and most convenient international airport (90-100 km from Zhenjiang).
  • Major hub in Eastern China with domestic and international connections.
  • Airlines: China Eastern, Air China, Lufthansa, Singapore Airlines, etc.

Flight Availability & Transfers

Flight prices vary by season. Transfers from airports are efficient.

Tips & Options

  • More expensive prices in peak season (spring/autumn) and Chinese holidays.
  • From NKG: Airport shuttle bus (1.5-2 hrs) or high-speed rail via Nanjing South Station.
  • Taxi/Didi from NKG costs 300-400 CNY (1-1.A five-hour duration), Dollar Flight Club Skyscanner for finding fares.

Nanjing Lukou NKG

Main international gateway for Zhenjiang.

Changzhou Benniu CZX

Smaller, mainly domestic airport closer to Zhenjiang.

Airport Facilities

NKG offers duty-free, restaurants, currency exchange, Wi-Fi. CZX provides basic services.

Land Transportation

Train Connections

  • Zhenjiang South (high-speed G/D trains): to Shanghai (~1-1.5 hrs), Nanjing (~15-25 min), Beijing (~4-5 hrs).
  • Zhenjiang Railway Station (conventional trains, some high-speed): closer into the city's core.
  • Booking train tickets via apps like Trip.com is convenient.
  • No border crossing information for inland Zhenjiang.

Long-Distance Buses & Driving

  • Zhenjiang Coach Station: extensive services to cities like Nanjing, Yangzhou, Suzhou.
  • Buses are pleasant and cost-effective for shorter to mid-range distances.
  • Self-driving: China does not recognize International Driving Permits. Temporary permit required.
  • Road conditions: Major highways are well-maintained; city roads congested. Consider hiring a driver.

Sea/River Arrivals

Yangtze River Port

Zhenjiang operates as a cargo port on the Yangtze River. Regular international or domestic passenger ferry services for tourist arrivals are limited.

River Cruises

Some longer Yangtze River cruise itineraries might include a stop near Zhenjiang, but this is less common for general arrival or departure for individual travelers.

Local River Travel

A short ferry ride is a must to reach Jiaoshan Island, a local public service for sightseeing, not inter-city travel.

Departure Information

Airport Departure

Departing from Nanjing Lukou International Airport (NKG) or Changzhou Benniu Airport (CZX).

Timing & Procedures

  • International Flights: Arrive 2-3 hours before departure.
  • Domestic Flights: Arrive 1.5-2 hours before departure.
  • Allow 1.5-2.5 hours transfer time from Zhenjiang to NKG, with buffer.

Train Station Departure

Departing from Zhenjiang South Railway Station or Zhenjiang Railway Station.

Timing & Facilities

  • Arrive 30-60 minutes before scheduled train departure.
  • Ticket gates close a few minutes before train departs.
  • Stations feature spacious waiting areas, shops, food stalls, restrooms.

Exit Fees & Customs

No specific exit fees or taxes are levied directly at airports or train stations for departing China.

What to Expect

  • Costs are typically incorporated into your airline or train ticket prices.
  • Have passport and ticket ready for security checks before platform entry.
  • Standard security procedures apply.

Airport Facilities

NKG Amenities

  • Lounges and duty-free shopping.
  • Variety of restaurants and cafes.
  • Currency exchange services for leftover CNY.

Train Departure Tip

Passport Ready

Ensure your passport is easily accessible for security checks.

Ticket Ready

Have your train ticket (physical or digital) readily available.

Platform Access

Security checks take place standard before entering the platform area.

Zhenjiang South Railway Station

Zhenjiang South Railway Station serves as a primary hub for high-speed rail, joining the city to major destinations across China. Its modern facilities and efficient services simplify travel for both arrivals and departures. This station Provides access to cities like Shanghai, Nanjing, and Beijing, positioning Zhenjiang as an easily accessible destination within the Yangtze River Delta.