How to Get to Nanchang. Flights, Transportation, Airlines

Air Travel Essentials

Airport & Connections

Nanchang Changbei International Airport (KHN) handles domestic and restricted international flights.

Airlines & Routes

Major Chinese carriers connect KHN to Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen.
Limited direct international flights to Hong Kong, Macau, Taipei, Bangkok, Singapore.
International travelers usually connect using major Chinese or Asian hubs.

Planning Your Flight

Consider seasonal availability and price fluctuations when booking.

Optimizing Your Air Journey

Higher prices during spring, autumn, and major Chinese holidays like Lunar New Year and Golden Week.
Lower prices during summer (extreme heat) and winter (cold/damp), excluding Lunar New Year.
Book flights well in advance, especially during peak travel, for better rates. Check Dollar Flight Club or Skyscanner.

KHN Facilities

KHN features restaurants, shops, duty-free areas, ATMs, currency exchange, and free Wi-Fi.

Bus Transfers

Several airport bus lines connect KHN to different city points. Fares range from ¥15-20.

Metro Connection

Nanchang Metro Line 2 extends directly to the airport for fast, efficient city access.

Additional Transfer Options

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxis are available 24/7. Use the meter. ¥80-120 to city center.
Use Didi Chuxing app for ride-sharing. Costs are comparable to taxis.
Designated pickup points exist at the airport for Didi services.

Seamless Journeys

Plan your transfer method based on your destination and luggage amount.
Allow ample time, notably at busy times, for smooth transit.
Language support may be limited with some taxi drivers; have your destination written in Chinese.

Train Travel & Requirements

High-Speed Rail

Nanchang West Train Station hyperlinks to major cities like Shanghai (3.5-4 hrs), Beijing (6-7 hrs), Guangzhou (4-5 hrs).

Conventional Trains

Nanchang Rail Depot handles slower trains connecting to a wide range of cities across China.

Booking Trains

Reserve through 12306.cn (Chinese only) or Trip.com (English interface). Passport required for buy and collection. Book in advance.

Land Travel Insights

Bus Travel Options

Long-distance buses provide alternatives for regional travel and destinations not served by train.

Bus Network

Several long-distance bus stations operate in Nanchang.
Offer cheaper, albeit slower, alternatives for regional and surrounding province travel.
Buses often prove a good choice for destinations with limited train access.

Driving Considerations

Self-driving for tourists is impractical due to license requirements and traffic conditions.

Road Rules

Foreigners cannot drive with an International Driving Permit (IDP) in mainland China.
You might encounter heavy traffic and chaotic; drivers may not always adhere to rules.

River & Sea Arrivals

Nanchang's inland location implies sea travel is not a main mode of arrival.

Water Travel Options

No sea cruise ports or regular international ferry services.
Limited passenger river services are available on the Gan River for sightseeing.
Evening sightseeing cruises offer scenic views of Nanchang's illuminated skyline.

Departure Information

Prepare for your departure to ensure a smooth exit from Nanchang and China.

Exit Procedures

No specific exit fees or taxes apply to foreign air passengers departing from China.
International Flights: Arrive at KHN 2.5-3 hours before departure.
High-Speed Trains: Arrive at Nanchang West Railway Station 30-45 minutes before departure.

Departure Facility Information

Nanchang Changbei International Airport (KHN) provides dining options, shops, lounges, and free Wi-Fi.
Nanchang West Railway Station features restaurants, convenience stores, and spacious waiting areas.
Allow ample time for transit and all necessary procedures.

Plan departure thoughtfully, especially during peak travel seasons, to avoid stress.
Ensure you complete all necessary check-in, security, and immigration procedures without haste.

Important Considerations

Airport Bus & Taxi Transfers

Several airport bus lines connect KHN to different places in Nanchang city. Fares are affordable, typically ¥15-20.

Transfer Details

Check specific airport bus lines for your destination.
Taxis are available 24/7 outside terminals; ensure the driver uses the meter.
Use Didi Chuxing app for ride-sharing; costs are comparable to taxis.

Metro & Ride-Sharing Options

Nanchang Metro Line 2 extends directly to the airport, offering a fast and efficient way to reach the city center.

Seamless Travel

The subway connects to other lines for broader city access.
Designated taxi stands and Didi pickup points are available at the airport.
Language barriers might exist with taxi drivers; have your destination written in Chinese.

No Exit Fees

No specific exit fees or taxes apply to foreign air passengers departing from China; these are included in your ticket.

Departure Timing

Arrive 2.5-3 hours before international flights, 1.5-2 hours for domestic flights, and 30-45 minutes for high-speed trains.

Station Facilities

Both the airport and train stations offer dining, shops, and waiting areas for departing travelers.

Land Transportation Details

Long-Distance Bus Travel

Several long-distance bus stations operate in Nanchang, offering cheaper options for regional travel.

Bus Network Insights

Buses connect to a wide range of cities within Jiangxi Province and neighboring regions.
They can be a good choice for destinations not well-served by train.
Fares are generally lower than train tickets, though travel times are longer.

Self-Driving & Road Conditions

Foreigners cannot drive in mainland China with only an International Driving Permit (IDP).

Driving Challenges

Obtaining a temporary Chinese driving permit is often time-consuming.
Traffic conditions can be chaotic, and language barriers complicate driving.
Pedestrians and cyclists should exercise extreme caution when navigating roads.

River Transportation & Borders

River Cruises

Limited passenger river services operate on the Gan River for short sightseeing cruises.

Border Crossings

Nanchang is an inland city; it has no direct international land border crossings.

Immigration

Immigration procedures at seaports are not applicable due to Nanchang's inland location.

Smooth Departure Planning

Careful preparation for your departure supports a stress-free conclusion to your Nanchang visit.

How to Get to Nanchang