MileHacker Logo
How to Get to Xianyang

How to Get to Xianyang

Xianyang Shaanxi, China Travel Guide

Air Travel

Xi'a Xianyang International Airport XIY

XIY is the main airport serving both Xi'an and Xianyang. It is roughly 13 kilometers (8 miles) northwest of Xianyang city center.

Airport Overview

  • One of China's busiest airports.
  • Handles significant domestic and international flights.
  • Multiple terminals (T2, T3 domestic; T3 international).

Airlines & Routes

XIY serves numerous destinations across China and internationally, mainly to Asian hubs.

Flight Connections

  • Domestic Airlines: Air China, China Eastern, China Southern, Hainan Airlines, Sichuan Airlines, Shenzhen Airlines, connecting to major Chinese cities.
  • Global Airlines: Routes to Seoul, Hong Kong, Singapore, Bangkok. Limited direct intercontinental flights.
  • Most international visitors link through major Chinese gateway cities (Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou) or other Asian hubs.

Airport Facilities

XIY is a large, modern airport with comprehensive facilities: dining, shopping, free Wi-Fi, financial services, lounges, car rental desks, luggage storage, and medical services.

Airport Shuttle Buses

Regular shuttle bus services connect the airport to Xianyang city center. Cost: ¥20-30. Duration: 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic. Look for buses specifically for "Xianyang City."

Taxi & Ride-sharing

Taxis and Didi Chuxing (China's dominant ride-sharing app) are available outside the terminals. Taxi to Xianyang city center: ¥80-150. Didi offers transparent pricing via app.

Seasonal Flight Availability & Prices

Peak Periods

  • Flight prices are higher during major Chinese public holidays (Chinese New Year, Labor Day, National Day).
  • Increased demand, limited availability.
  • Summer (July-August) and autumn (September-October) also see higher prices.
  • Booking several months in advance is advised. Check Dollar Flight Club and Skyscanner.

Off-Peak Benefits

  • Lower prices appear in the low season, especially winter (excluding Chinese New Year).
  • Weather is colder, number of visitors decrease, often leading to better deals.
  • Reduced demand for both international and domestic routes.
  • Greater flexibility with bookings and travel dates.

Transfer Tips

Shuttle Buses

Look for buses just for "Xianyang City". These usually have several stops within the city. Cost is generally ¥20-30.

Taxi Use

Ensure the taxi driver uses the meter or agree on a price before starting. Didi offers upfront pricing for transparency.

Private Transfers

Pre-book a private car transfer through your hotel or a travel agency for direct service, useful with luggage or groups.

Land Transportation

Train Connections

Xianyang features a robust railway network, serving conventional and high-speed trains.

Railway Stations

  • Xianyang Railway Station: Conventional trains to various cities.
  • Xianyang West Rail Depot: Modern station for high-speed trains on the Xi'an-Baoji High-Speed Railway.
  • High-Speed Rail: Rapid connections to Xi'an (15 minutes, ¥7-15) and other major cities.

Long-Distance Buses

The Xianyang Long-Distance Bus Station offers routes to various cities and towns within Shaanxi province and some neighboring provinces.

Bus Services

  • Generally slower and less comfortable than high-speed rail.
  • Reaches destinations not served by train, including smaller villages or scenic areas.
  • Purchase tickets at the bus station on the day of travel or a few days ahead.

Self-Driving Considerations

Foreigners cannot drive inside China with just an International Driving Permit. A temporary Chinese driving permit is a necessity.

Driving Requirements

  • Temporary Chinese driver's license: This involves an application, medical check, and sometimes a written test.
  • Car Rental: Companies are available. The driver's license requirement stands. DiscoverCars.com for rentals DiscoverCars.com.
  • Recommendation: Hiring a chauffeured car has a more convenient alternative for most tourists.

Road Conditions & Safety

Main roads and highways in and around Xianyang are in good condition. Urban traffic can be dense and chaotic.

Driving Environment

  • Urban Traffic: Heavy during peak hours. The way locals drive can be aggressive.
  • Defensive driving is advised.
  • Rural Roads: Conditions vary outside city centers.

Border Crossing & Sea/River Arrivals

  • Xianyang is an inland city in China.
  • Border crossing information is not applicable for arrival or departure directly from Xianyang.
  • All international entries and exits occur at designated international airports or land/sea borders of The people's republic of china.
  • The Wei River is not used for public transportation or commercial passenger services to other cities.
  • Recreational boating could be an option on specific sections, but it does not serve as a means of arrival or departure for tourists.
  • No sea ports or ferry services connect Xianyang to other major cities.

Departure Information

Airport Departure Procedures

International Flights

  • Arrive at least 3 hours before departure for check-in, bag check, security, and immigration.
  • Procedures: Check-in at airline counter, bag check, security screening, passport control.

Domestic Flights

  • Be at the AIRPORT a minimum of 2 hours before departure.
  • Procedures: Check-in, bag check, and security screening. No immigration.

Train & Bus Departure

Departure from railway stations and long-distance bus stations also needs ample time for checks.

High-Speed Trains

  • Arrive 30-60 minutes before departure for ticket collection, security, and platform location.
  • Security check at station entrance, ticket check before waiting hall, then boarding.

Conventional Trains/Buses

  • Arrive at least 30 minutes before departure.
  • Similar security and ticket checks to high-speed rail.

Airport Facilities

XIY features check-in counters, baggage drop, security checkpoints, immigration, duty-free shops, diverse restaurants, cafes, and lounges.

Railway Station Facilities

Stations feature large waiting halls with seating, restrooms, and food vendors selling snacks and drinks. Shops for last-minute souvenirs are present.

Confirm Before You Go

Confirm your flight or train status and departure terminal/platform the day prior to your departure. Traffic to the airport or station can be heavy; allow extra travel time.

No Exit Fees

No particular exit fees or taxes are levied for departing China by air or land for tourists.

← Previous
What to Pack for Xianyang
← Back to Xianyang
Next →
Getting Around Xianyang

Next Up: Getting Around Xianyang. Public Transport, Taxis, Car Rental

Continue to Getting Around Xianyang