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How to Get to Yanan

How to Get to Yanan

Yanan Shaanxi, China Travel Guide

Air Travel

Airports & Airlines

Yan'a Nanniwan Airport (ENY) is the main domestic airport, found roughly 13 kilometers (8 miles) to the southwest of the city center.

Operating Airlines & Routes

  • Major domestic carriers: Air China, China Eastern, China Southern, Hainan Airlines, Joy Air, Sichuan Airlines, Tianjin Airlines.
  • Routes connect Yan'a with Beijing, Shanghai, Xi'an, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Chengdu, Chongqing, Wuhan.
  • No direct international flights. Connect via major Chinese hubs (Dollar Flight Club, Skyscanner for options).

Seasonal & Transfers

Flight frequency and prices to Yan'a fluctuate based on season and major Chinese holidays. Book in advance during peak periods.

Airport Facilities & Transfers

  • Yan'a Nanniwan Airport: Basic but adequate facilities (check-in, baggage, limited dining/retail).
  • Taxi: Readily available, 20-30 min to city center, ¥50-100. Use meter.
  • Airport Transfer service: Operates between airport and city center, ¥15-20.

Yan'a Nanniwan Airport

Main domestic air gateway to Yan'an.

Peak Travel Seasons

More expensive prices in spring, autumn, and bank holidays.

Connecting Flights

International travelers arrive via major Chinese hubs like Beijing, Shanghai, Xi'an.

Land Transportation

Train Services

  • Yan'a Railway Station: Conventional trains that go to broader range of cities.
  • Yan'a North Railway Station: High-speed rail to Xi'an (1.5-2 hours).
  • Book tickets online (Trip.com/Ctrip) or at terminals with passport.
  • Advance booking recommended for high-speed rail plus busy times.

Bus & Self-Driving

  • Yan'a Long-Distance Bus Station: Connections within Shaanxi and nearby provinces.
  • Self-driving: Official Chinese driver's license is mandatory; IDPs are not recognized.
  • Road laws and being behind the wheel customs here differ. Self-driving is not for most foreign tourists.
  • Consider hiring a chauffeured car for day trips to simplify travel.

Road Conditions & Safety

Highways

Generally well-maintained and smooth for travel to and from Yan'an.

Rural Roads

Quality varies; some may be unpaved or poorly maintained, especially off major routes.

Safety Tips

Exercise exercise caution due to other drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists. Pay attention to local driving habits. Winter brings icy roads.

Sea/River Arrivals

Ferry Services & Cruise Ports

This section does not apply to Yan'an. Yan'an is a landlocked city, with no access to seas or major navigable rivers that support ferry services or cruise ports.

No Maritime Access

  • Yan'an has no seaports or cruise terminals.
  • All foreign travel is via air or land.
  • The Yan River is not for commercial or tourist transportation.

River Transportation Options

This section is not applicable. The Yan River, which flows through the city, is a relatively small river and is not used for commercial or tourist transportation.

Limited River Use

  • The Yan River is mainly for local use and environment.
  • No formal water-based transit options for visitors.
  • Focus on air and land transport for travel planning.

Departure Information

Departure Procedures

No specific exit fees or taxes are levied as you leave China for air travelers, as these are generally included in the airfare.

Timing Recommendations

  • Airport (Yan'a Nanniwan): Be there at LEAST 1.5-2 hours before scheduled domestic flight departure.
  • Railway Station (Yan'a North/Yan'an): Arrive at least 30-45 minutes before train departure.
  • Bus Station: Arrive 20-30 minutes before bus departure.

Airport & Station Facilities

Facilities cater to departing travelers, ensuring a smooth exit from Yan'an.

Available Services

  • Yan'a Nanniwan Airport: Basic check-in, security, limited dining and commerce.
  • Yan'a North Railway Station: Nice waiting rooms, food vendors, toilets, security checks.
  • Yan'a Train Station/Bus Station: Rudimentary waiting spots plus boutiques.

Visuals of Travel Hubs

Yan'a Nanniwan Airport

The main air gateway to the city.

Yan'a North Railway Station

A high-speed train connecting Yan'a to other main cities.

Yan'a People's Hospital

A medical facility in the city.

Departure Reminder

Always confirm your flight or train departure times the day before you travel, as schedules can occasionally change. Use apps like Trip.com or the official 12306 app for up-to-date updates.