How to Get to Hanzhong. Flights, Transportation, Airlines

Flights to Hanzhong Chenggu Airport HZG

Airlines & Domestic Routes

Hanzhong Chenggu Airport (HZG) is a regional airport handling domestic flights.

Operators & Destinations

Mainly domestic Chinese airlines serve HZG: China Eastern, Air China, Sichuan Airlines, Tianjin Airlines, China Southern.
Hanzhong connects to major Chinese cities: Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Chengdu, Kunming, Hangzhou.
Flights to Xi'an are less frequent due to the efficiency of high-speed rail.

International Connections & Pricing

No direct international flights operate to Hanzhong. Prices change during holidays.

Transfer & Booking Advice

International travelers typically fly into major Chinese hubs (Beijing, Shanghai, Xi'an) then connect domestically.
Flight prices fluctuate considerably during Chinese holidays (Chinese New Year, National Day) and summer (July-August).
Booking flights well booking ahead is recommended during peak periods. Consider Dollar Flight Club or Skyscanner for deals.

Airport Facilities

Hanzhong Chenggu Airport is smaller, offering basic facilities: check-in, security, few dining options, and shops. ATMs and limited currency exchange might be available.

Airport Shuttle Bus

Shuttle services connect Hanzhong Chenggu Airport to the city center, including Hanzhong Railway Station. Look for clear signage outside the terminal.

Taxi & Ride-Sharing

Taxis are available outside the terminal. Use Didi Chuxing for ride-sharing, providing transparent pricing. Confirm destination with the driver.

Domestic Flight Travel Tips

Check-in and Security

Allow at least 1.5 to 2 hours before departure for check-in and security.
Ensure all luggage complies with airline regulations for size and weight.
Reconfirm your flight schedule the day before departure to avoid surprises.
Plan to have mobile payment options (WeChat Pay/Alipay) ready at the airport.

International Transfer Considerations

Allow sufficient time for transfer between international and domestic flights in major hubs.
Have all necessary visa and entry documents readily available for immigration procedures.
Consider translation apps for easier navigation through Chinese airports and public transport.
Be aware that airport provisions at regional airports like HZG are basic.

Airline Booking Resources

Budget Flight Alerts

Flight Comparison

Use Skyscanner to compare costs across various airlines for the best deals.

Domestic Flight Planning

Book domestic flights well in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to secure preferred rates.

Getting There: Land Transportation

Train Connections & Services

Hanzhong boasts excellent train connections, including high-speed rail.

Stations & Routes

Hanzhong Railway Station (conventional lines). Hanzhong West Train Station (high-speed rail).
High-speed rail to Xi'an (1.5-2 hours) and Chengdu (2-3 hours).
Buy tickets on the web via 12306.cn (Chinese only) or Trip.com. Book in advance for HSR.

Long-Distance Bus Options

Bus services supplement train travel, reaching more remote destinations.

Bus Stations & Destinations

Several long-distance bus stations (e.g., Hanzhong Bus Station).
Links within Shaanxi (Baoji, Ankang) and to neighboring provinces (Sichuan, Gansu).
Buses are generally slower but serve destinations not accessible by train. Purchase tickets at bus stations.

Self-Driving Considerations

IDPs are not recognized.

Driving Rules & Navigation

Foreign visitors can sometimes obtain a temporary Chinese license; the process is complex.
Main roads are well-maintained. Rural roads vary. Traffic can be heavy in urban areas.
GPS apps like Baidu Maps or Amap are crucial for navigation. Drive on the right side.

Road Conditions & Safety

Highways are modern. Mountain roads can be challenging.

Hazard Awareness

Highways connecting Hanzhong to Xi'an and Chengdu are well-maintained.
Mountainous roads in surrounding areas can be winding and hazardous, especially in heavy rain or winter.
Driver behavior can be aggressive; defensive driving is always advisable. Exercise caution.

Car Rental Advisory

Do not plan to drive without obtaining a valid Chinese driving license.
Major car rental companies (Shouqi, Ehi, CAR Inc.) operate, but license requirements stand.
For more convenient car rental, consult DiscoverCars.com.

Border crossing information is not applicable for Hanzhong, as it is an inland city.
Ferry services and cruise ports are not applicable for Hanzhong.
River transportation is limited to small local boats for tourism, not intercity travel.

Departure Information from Hanzhong

Departure Procedures & Timing

Plan your departure with sufficient time for smooth travel.

Timelines

Air Travel (HZG): Show up at LEAST 1.5-2 hours before domestic flight departure for check-in and security.
Train Travel (Hanzhong West): Arrive at least 30-45 minutes before high-speed rail departure for security checks.
Bus Travel: Arrive at least 30 minutes before departure for discovering your bus and loading luggage.

Airport/Station Facilities

Facilities vary by departure point, from basic to comfortable.

Amenities Available

Hanzhong Chenggu Airport: Basic waiting areas, a few shops, food stalls. No extensive facilities or luxury lounges.
Hanzhong West Railway Station: Comfortable waiting halls, restrooms, shops, food vendors. More amenities than the airport.
Hanzhong Bus Stations: Basic waiting areas, small shops, food stalls. Functional but not extensive amenities.

Exit Fees

No specific exit fees or taxes are typically levied on departing travelers from Hanzhong or China via air or land. These costs are generally included in your ticket price.

Reconfirm Travel

Reconfirm your flight or train schedule the day before departure. This helps you avoid any surprises with timing or platform changes.

Sea/River Travel

Plan your arrival and departure exclusively via air or land. Hanzhong'the geography of does not support sea or significant river travel for tourists.

Local Transport: Buses & Taxis

Public Bus Network

Hanzhong’s public transportation relies on its extensive bus network. No metro or tram system exists.

Routes & Fares

Bus routes cover most urban areas, connecting to suburbs and nearby towns.
Hubs include Hanzhong Railway Station, Hanzhong West Rail Depot, and major commercial districts.
Fares are typically a flat rate of ¥1-¥2 per ride. Exact change is often needed for cash payments.

Bus Payment & Accessibility

Mobile payment should be the most common. Accessibility is developing.

Payment Methods & Accessibility

Mobile payment is most convenient; scan QR codes using WeChat Pay or Alipay.
Most routes operate from ~6:00 AM to 9:00 PM/10:00 PM, with major routes every 5-15 minutes.
Newer buses may offer low-floor access, but older buses have steps. Information is mainly in Chinese.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing in Hanzhong

Licensed Taxis

Usually green or blue, display "TAXI" sign. Drivers must use meters. Hail on street or at designated stands. Have destination written in Chinese.

Fares & Payment

Starting fare ¥6-¥10. Most city rides ¥15-¥40. WeChat Pay and Alipay are preferred; cash accepted but less common.

Ride-Sharing: Didi Chuxing

Dominant app. Presents various options (Express, Premier, Taxi). Link to WeChat Pay/Alipay. Generally safe as drivers are registered and trips tracked.

Transport Navigation Tip

Download Baidu Maps or Amap before your trip. These apps are invaluable for real-time bus information and navigating Hanzhong's public transport system.

How to Get to Hanzhong