How to Get to Shihezi. Flights, Transportation, Airlines

Air Travel to Shihezi

Major Airports & Airlines

Shihezi Huayuan Airport (SHF) mainly handles domestic flights. Urumqi Diwopu International Airport (URC) is the main international gateway for Xinjiang.

Flight Information

SHF serves domestic routes (Beijing, Chengdu, Guangzhou, Shanghai).
URC connects to The core Asia, Russia, Middle East, and major Chinese cities.
No direct international flights to Shihezi.

Airport Facilities & Transfers

SHF offers basic facilities. URC is larger with extensive facilities including duty-free, dining, and lounges.

Transfer Options

From SHF to Shihezi city: taxi or airport shuttle.
From URC to Shihezi: airport bus to Urumqi train/bus station, then train/bus to Shihezi.
Direct cab from URC to Shihezi is expensive (CNY 300-500).

Flight Availability

Stable availability, but prices fluctuate with season.

Price Increases

Expect higher fares during summer holidays and Chinese public holidays. Check Dollar Flight Club or Skyscanner for deals.

Private Services

Arrange private car services in advance for airport convenience.

Land Transportation Options

Train Connections

Shihezi Train Terminal connects to Urumqi (1.5-2 hours).
On the Northern Xinjiang Railway (Lanxin Railway).
Book tickets via China Railway official app (12306.cn) or agents. Passport registration is a requirement.
High-speed (D-series) and conventional (K, T, Z-series) trains.

Long-Distance Buses

Shihezi Long-Distance Bus Station provides services.
Frequent services to Urumqi (2-2.5 hours) and other Xinjiang cities.
Generally comfortable and cost-effective.
Roads are generally well-maintained, but security checkpoints are common.

Self-Driving & Road Conditions

Driving Requirements

Foreigners cannot legally drive with an International Driving Permit. A temporary Chinese driving permit or full Chinese license is a requirement. Check DiscoverCars.com for rental info.

Road Safety

There can be a lot of traffic in urban areas. Long-distance roads have security checkpoints; cooperate fully with authorities. Winter driving is hazardous due to snow and ice.

Border Crossings

Shihezi is not on the coast; international land border crossings are not directly relevant for reaching it. Xinjiang's borders have varying availability and often special permits.

Departure Information

Exit Procedures

No specific exit fees or taxes apply for departing China beyond your ticket cost.

Air Travel Departure

Arrive 2-3 hours before international flights (URC).
Arrive 1.5-2 hours before domestic flights (URC).
Expect standard security checks and baggage screening.

Train & Bus Departure

Arriving promptly at the station for train or bus travel facilitates a relaxed departure.

Station Facilities

Arrive at the station 30-60 minutes before departure.
URC offers duty-free, restaurants, cafes, and lounges.
Shihezi Huayuan Airport and train/bus stations provide basic facilities.

Sea/River Travel Not Applicable

These options do not apply for reaching Shihezi, an inland city.

Reasoning

Shihezi's geographical location inland.
No ferry services or cruise ports.
No river transportation options.

Accessibility Notes

For travelers with mobility challenges, public infrastructure has some limitations. Careful planning makes for comfortable travel.

Recommendations

Arrange private transportation.
Confirm accessibility with accommodations in advance.
Verify accessibility at attractions.

Specialized Transportation Not Available

Tour Buses

No tour buses or hop-on-hop-off services for international tourists.

Water Transport

No boat taxis or water transportation available.

Unique Options

No cable cars, funiculars, or other unique local transport options.

Travel Planning Tip

Allocate ample time for airport and station procedures to avoid rush and stress.

How to Get to Shihezi