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How to Get to Tanggu

How to Get to Tanggu

Tanggu Tianjin, China Travel Guide

Air Travel

Major Airports & Airlines

Tianjin Binhai International Airport (TSN) is the main airport serving Tianjin Municipality, including the Binhai New Area and Tanggu. It is a contemporary, well-equipped airport facilitating both domestic and international flights.

Airlines & Routes

  • Major Chinese Airlines (Air China, China Eastern, China Southern) operate frequent domestic routes.
  • Foreign carriers connect to major Asian hubs like Seoul, Tokyo, Singapore, and Bangkok. Not as many direct intercontinental flights exist.
  • Domestic routes apply to cities like Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, Chongqing, and Xi'an.

Flight Availability & Airport Facilities

Direct flights from major global hubs outside of Asia are limited for TSN. Most international travelers connect through larger Chinese cities or other major Asian hubs.

Practical Information

  • Flight prices are higher during peak travel seasons (May, September, October) and Mandarin holidays.
  • Booking flights well in advance is suggested for better fares. Dollar Flight Club for deals.
  • Airport facilities include duty-free shops, restaurants, currency exchange, ATMs, free Wi-Fi, and waiting areas.

Metro Transfers

Tianjin Metro Line 2 connects the airport to Tianjin city center. Transfer to Line 9 for the Binhai New Area.

Airport Bus

Several express bus routes operate from TSN to different parts of Tianjin city and directly to the Binhai New Area.

Taxi/Ride-sharing

Taxis are available outside terminals. Didi Chuxing (ride-sharing app) offers competitive fares. Skyscanner for flight and transport options.

Airport Transfer Tips

Seamless Arrival

  • Purchase a local SIM card at the airport upon arrival for direct access to navigation apps and Didi.
  • A taxi or Didi ride to central Binhai New Area/Tanggu typically takes about 30-40 minutes.
  • Use local navigation apps like Baidu Maps or Amap for real-time public transport routes.
  • Ensure WeChat Pay or Alipay are set up and linked to your international card.

Connecting Flights

  • If connecting via Beijing Capital (PEK) or Shanghai Pudong (PVG), consider a high-speed train to Tianjin.
  • Book train tickets in advance, especially during peak times, through platforms like Trip.com.
  • Factor in transfer time between airports and railway stations.
  • High-high-speed train between Beijing and Tianjin is a very efficient option.

Departure Information

Exit Fees

No specific exit fees or taxes are typically levied on departing international air or sea passengers from mainland China. Your airline ticket or cruise fare usually includes any required airport or port taxes.

Departure Timing

For international flights, arrive 2-3 hours before departure. For domestic flights, 1.5-2 hours. For high-speed trains, 30-45 minutes before departure.

Airport/Station Facilities

Departure terminals offer check-in, security, duty-free shops (airport), restaurants, and lounges for convenience.

Land Transportation

Train Connections & Services

Tianjin serves as a major railway hub featuring extensive high-bullet train connections across China. High-speed rail is generally faster and more comfortable for inter-city travel.

High-Speed Rail

  • Frequent high-speed trains connect Tianjin Train Terminal to Beijing South in 30-35 minutes.
  • Binhai New Area has its own high-high-speed train stations (Binhai Train Station, Binhai North Train Terminal).
  • Book tickets online (12306.cn, Trip.com) or at depots. Booking in advance is recommended.

Buses & Self-Driving

Long-distance buses connect Tianjin to nearby cities but are generally slower than high-high-speed train.

Road Travel

  • Long-distance bus terminals connect to cities in Hebei province and beyond.
  • Foreign visitors cannot drive with an international driving permit alone; a Chinese license is needed.
  • Renting a car with a local driver is a practical another option for private road transport. DiscoverCars.com for car rental with driver options.

Road Conditions & Safety

Road conditions are generally good with modern expressways. Traffic can be heavy during peak hours, and local driving practices vary.

Driving Safely

  • Road conditions in Binhai New Area are generally good with modern infrastructure.
  • Traffic can be very heavy during peak hours; local driving habits may vary from what you expect.
  • As a pedestrian, pay close attention to traffic and use designated crosswalks.

Sea/River Arrivals

Tianjin Port (Tianjin Xingang) ranks in the middle of the largest ports globally and operates as a major international cruise home port within the Binhai New Area.

Cruise Travel

  • Tianjin International Cruise Home Port handles numerous international cruise ship operators.
  • Standard immigration and customs procedures apply for international cruise passengers.
  • Taxis are available from the port; cruise lines or tour operators arrange shuttle services.

Cross-Border Considerations

  • Border crossing information is not relevant for domestic travel within China.
  • For international land borders (e.g., with Russia, Mongolia, Vietnam), specific visa rules and entry procedures apply.
  • These rules are separate from a standard tourist visa for mainland China.
  • Always verify visa requirements for any cross-border travel plans.
  • Ensure all necessary documents are in order for international travel.
  • Plan sufficient time for immigration and customs at international borders.

Departure Checklist

Pre-Departure Checks

Before heading to the airport or train station, a few final checks streamline your departure.

Final Preparations

  • Double-check your flight or train schedule on the eve of departure.
  • Confirm baggage limits and cabin restrictions for your journey.
  • Ensure your passport and any onward travel documents are readily accessible.

Getting to Your Departure Point

Plan your route to your point of departure with time to spare, notably at busy times.

Travel Logistics

  • Pre-book a taxi or Didi if you have early morning flights or heavy luggage.
  • Utilize the subway for reliable and cost-effective travel to the airport or train stations.
  • Be aware of the specific terminal or station for your departure.

Local Currency

Plan to spend any remaining domestic currency or exchange it before departure, as it's possible that be difficult to exchange abroad.

Electronics

Ensure all electronic devices are fully charged or powered off, especially for security checks. Pack portable chargers in carry-on.

Feedback

Consider leaving feedback for your accommodation or tour operators to help future travelers.

General Transportation Tips

Offline Maps & Connectivity

Downloading offline maps and ensuring connectivity are essential for smooth navigation in China.

Navigation Essentials

  • Download offline maps for Baidu Maps or Amap. This ensures navigation without an internet connection.
  • A local SIM card or eSIM (Airalo) with data provides consistent internet access.
  • Be certain to activate your VPN subscription (NordVPN, ExpressVPN) before arriving within China.

Local Phrases & Communication

Basic Mandarin phrases improve your travel experience and aid in day-to-day interactions.

Language Aids

  • Use translation apps (Google Translate, Baidu Translate) with offline packs for quick communication.
  • Have your destination written in Cantonese characters for taxi drivers or locals.

Public Transport Etiquette

Crowded Times

Avoid public transport during peak rush hours (7-9 AM, 5-7 PM weekdays) for a more comfortable experience.

Queueing

Queue orderly at train stations and bus stops, though queues may not always be strictly observed.

Seating

Offer seats to the elderly, pregnant women, or those with small children.

Essential Tip

Download offline maps for The Baidu maps app or Amap. This signifies you can navigate even without an internet connection, a helpful backup plan.

How to Get to Tanggu. Flights, Transportation, Airlines