Pingdu Shandong, China Travel Guide
Pingdu does not have its own airport. Air travelers use the nearby Qingdao Jiaodong International Airport (TAO). It lies approximately 70-80 kilometers southeast of Pingdu city center. This modern hub connects Shandong to many domestic and foreign destinations. TAO hosts various domestic routes across China and international routes to major Asian cities. Limited intercontinental destinations are also available. Major Chinese airlines operate extensively from TAO.
Several choices are available for reaching Pingdu from Qingdao Jiaodong International Airport.
Qingdao Jiaodong (TAO) is 70-80 km to the southeast of Pingdu.
Chinese New Year, Republic Day, Summer Holidays see higher prices.
Dining, retail, duty-free, lounges, car rental available at TAO.
Not applicable for Pingdu. All international arrivals happen at official ports of entry, typically airports.
Not available in Pingdu due to its inland location and lack of suitable waterways for passenger transport.
Qingdao, on the shoreline, has a major seaport including several a ferry to another country services. These do not connect directly to Pingdu.
Pingdu Train Terminal (平度站) mainly serves conventional rail lines. It joins to various cities within Shandong Province. For high-speed rail, travelers use nearby cities like Qingdao or Weifang, which have high-speed rail stations. Starting there, transfer to Pingdu via bus or taxi. This involves an extra step but offers faster intercity travel for longer distances.
Pingdu Long-Distance Bus Station (平度汽车站) has wide-ranging bus connections. These services link Pingdu to metropolitan areas within Shandong Province, like Qingdao, Weifang, Yantai, and Jinan. Buses also connect to some other provinces. Buses present a common and affordable mode of intercity travel to and from Pingdu. Services are frequent, and tickets may be purchased at the station or by means of applications for mobile devices.
A valid Chinese driving license is mandatory for driving in mainland China. International Driving Permits are not recognized. Foreigners typically need to convert their home country license to a Chinese person one, which includes a written test and can be a lengthy process. Do not plan on renting a car and driving without a valid Chinese license.
Major highways and city roads in Shandong Province are generally in good condition. Rural roads could be different in quality. Driving standards and habits in China can are not the same as Western countries; defensive driving is advisable. DiscoverCars.com can show rental options, but remember the license requirement.
When departing from Qingdao Jiaodong International Airport, ensure you have sufficient time to shuttle bus journey from Pingdu, which may take up to two hours depending on traffic.
