How to Get to Zhaotong. Flights, Transportation, Airlines

Air Travel to Zhaotong

Zhaotong Airport Overview

Zhaotong has its own airport, Zhaotong Airport (ZAT), located approximately 12 km (7.5 miles) from the central area. It functions as a domestic airport.

Flights & Routes

Mainly served by Chinese domestic airlines (China Eastern Airlines, Kunming Airlines, Lucky Air).
Common paths connect to major regional centers such as Kunming (KMG), Chengdu (CTU), and Chongqing (CKG).
Some non-stop flights to larger cities like Shanghai (PVG), Guangzhou (CAN), and Beijing (PEK) are available.

International & Transfers

No direct international flights operate to Zhaotong. International travelers first fly into a key Chinese international airport.

Connecting Flights

International gateways include Shanghai Pudong (PVG), Beijing Capital (PEK), Guangzhou (CAN).
Connecting domestic flights from Chengdu (CTU) or Kunming (KMG) are common.
Organize your trip with a connecting flight out of these major hubs.

Seasonal Flight Insights

Flight frequency and prices vary seasonally, with higher demand during Chinese public holidays and peak summer travel.

Airport Facilities

Zhaotong Airport offers basic facilities, including check-in, security, a small waiting area, plus few retail/food options.

Airport Transfers

Taxis, public buses, and Didi Chuxing services are available for transfer from the airport to downtown or accommodation.

Flight Booking Resources

Deal Finders

Dollar Flight Club for flight offers and alerts.
Skyscanner for comparing flight options and prices.
Find the best prices by checking different travel dates.
Consider flexible times for potentially lower fares.

Direct Bookings

Book directly on airline websites for specific carriers.
Purchasing tickets directly from the airline simplifies management.
Manage your arranging and check-in directly with the airline.
Look for loyalty program benefits while reserving.

Airport Essentials

Check-in

Get there at LEAST 2 hours before domestic flights for check-in.

Security

Prepare for security screening; allow extra time during peak seasons.

Gate

Locate your boarding gate promptly after security.

Land Transportation

Train Travel

Zhaotong has a conventional Zhaotong Rail Depot and a newer Zhaotong West Train Terminal for high-speed rail. No what you need to know to cross the border is relevant as Zhaotong is an inland city.

High-Speed Rail

Zhaotong West is on a branch of the Chengdu-Kunming high-speed railway.
Connects to Kunming (2-3 hours), Chengdu (3-4 hours), Chongqing, and Guiyang.
Book tickets at stations, online (12306.cn), or through third-party apps like Trip.com.

Bus Services

Zhaotong's main long-distance bus station offers routes connecting to surrounding towns and metropolitan areas within Yunnan and adjoining Sichuan and Guizhou provinces.

Intercity Buses

The main bus station has courses to Kunming, Yibin, Xuanwei.
Buses connect to neighboring Sichuan and Guizhou provinces.
Buses access more remote areas not served by rail.

Driving in Zhaotong

International driving permits are not recognized. Foreigners typically convert their foreign license to a temporary Chinese license.

Requirements & Roads

A valid Chinese driver's license is needed for self-driving.
Major highways are generally well-maintained, but mountain roads are winding.
Traffic rules are often loosely followed; driving styles are aggressive.

Road Conditions

Yunnan’s mountainous terrain means many roads are winding. Fog, rain, and potential landslides during the wet the time of year can pose safety concerns for road travel.

Hazards

Winding mountain roads pose driving challenges.
Fog, rain, and potential landslides during the wet season.
Exercise caution on remote mountain roads, especially after heavy rain.

Road Safety Warnings

Traffic rules are often loosely followed by drivers from the region.
Driving styles can be aggressive, necessitating extreme caution.
Consider hiring a driver if you are unfamiliar with local road conditions.

Many roads are winding and sharp due to mountainous terrain.
Rainy conditions conditions significantly reduce visibility and traction.
Self-driving is generally not recommended for tourists from other countries.

Departure Information

Exiting China

No specific exit fees or taxes are typically levied on international departures from China beyond what is covered in your airfare. This streamlines departure logistics.

Departure Procedures

For airport departures, arrive at least ARRIVE 2 hours prior to domestic flights.
For train or the times buses depart, arrive at least 30-60 a few minutes before it's due to leave.
Allow extra time during peak travel seasons at all embarkation points.

Airport & Station Facilities

Zhaotong Airport and both railway stations (Zhaotong Railway Station and Zhaotong West Rail Depot) offer basic facilities for departing travelers.

Amenities

Waiting areas for passenger comfort.
Restroom facilities.
Some limited shops or food suppliers for refreshments.

Check-in Reminder

Confirm your flight or train booking in advance to avoid last-minute issues.

Security Reminder

Be aware of security screening methods and any limitations on liquids or things you can't bring.

Boarding Reminder

High-speed rail stations often have strict boarding cut-off times; arrive early.

Final Travel Tip

Double-check all your departure details and flight or train schedules before heading to the airport or station.

How to Get to Zhaotong