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How to Get to Jinhua

How to Get to Jinhua

Jinhua Zhejiang, China Travel Guide

Air Travel

Major Airports

Jinhua has a domestic airport, but international travelers usually fly into larger hubs before connecting.

Airport Overview

  • Jinhua Yiwu Airport (YIW): Closest, domestic flights only (50km east).
  • Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport (HGH): Major international airport (120km north).
  • Shanghai Pudong (PVG) & Hongqiao (SHA): Major international hubs (280-300km northeast).

Flight Options

No direct international flights operate to Jinhua Yiwu Airport (YIW).

Flight Details

  • YIW is mainly served by Chinese domestic airlines (China Southern, Eastern, Air China).
  • HGH, PVG, SHA have direct international flights from major global hubs.
  • Flight prices increase during peak seasons. Check Dollar Flight Club or Skyscanner.

YIW Facilities

Jinhua Yiwu Airport (YIW) offers basic facilities. These include check-over the counter, baggage claim, limited dining options, and ground getting around services.

Major Hub Facilities

HGH, PVG, SHA offer extensive facilities. This covers a variety of food choices, duty-free shopping, airline lounges, currency exchange.

Transfer Options

From YIW to Jinhua: Airport Shuttle Bus, Taxi. From HGH to Jinhua: High-speed train (via Hangzhou East), Long-distance bus, Taxi. From PVG/SHA to Jinhua: High-speed train (via Shanghai Hongqiao), Long-distance bus, Taxi.

Detailed Transfers

From YIW & HGH

  • From YIW: Regular shuttle buses to Jinhua city center.
  • From YIW: Taxi takes 40-60 a short time to Jinhua.
  • From HGH: Bus to Hangzhou East, then high-speed train to Jinhua (approx 1 hour).
  • From HGH: Direct long-cross-country buses to Jinhua.

From PVG & SHA

  • From PVG: Take Maglev or Metro to Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station.
  • From SHA: Short walk or taxi ride to Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station.
  • From Shanghai Hongqiao: High-speed rail services to Jinhua (approx 2-2.5 hours).
  • From Shanghai: Direct buses are available from various bus stations to Jinhua.

Self-Driving Notes

Driving Permit

Foreigners cannot drive with an International Driving Permit (IDP). A temporary Chinese driving permit or full Chinese license is for driving.

Navigation

Chinese navigation apps like Baidu Maps or Gaode Maps are for operating a vehicle. Google Maps performs poorly.

Roads & Traffic

Road conditions are good on major highways (e.g., G60 Shanghai-Kunming Expressway). Traffic flow is heavy in urban areas.

Land Transportation

Train Travel

Jinhua holds status as a major railway hub within Zhejiang province. High-speed rail is a popular and efficient way to travel.

Train Types & Booking

  • Jinhua Rail Depot: High-speed (G/D) & conventional (K/T/Z) trains.
  • Jinhua South Railway Station: Mainly high-speed trains.
  • Book tickets at terminals, 12306.cn, or via Trip.com/Ctrip. Booking in advance is highly recommended.

Bus Services

Jinhua has several long-distance bus stations (e.g., Jinhua West, Jinhua South). Buses connect to cities within Zhejiang and neighboring provinces.

Bus Routes & Options

  • Buses can be a cheaper alternative to trains for shorter distances.
  • They offer more straightforward paths to some smaller towns not served by rail.
  • Generally slower compared to high-speed trains.

Driving Safety

Driving a rented car as a foreigner has requirements due to driving license regulations.

Road Awareness

  • Major highways are well-maintained and modern.
  • Traffic is heavy, especially in urban areas and during rush hour.
  • Drivers must be aware of different driving styles; pedestrians/cyclists may not absolutely adhere to laws.

Rental Considerations

Foreigners cannot drive within China using an International Driving Permit (IDP). A temporary Chinese driving permit or full Chinese license is for getting around by car.

Rental Requirements

  • The process can be time-consuming and not always feasible for short visits.
  • Major international (e.g., Hertz, Avis) and domestic (e.g., Shouqi, CAR Inc.) rental companies operate in China.

Departure Essentials

  • No specific exit fees or taxes are upon departure from mainland China. The ticket price commonly comprises these.
  • Domestic flights: Arrive 2-3 hours before departure.
  • International flights (from HGH/PVG/SHA): Arrive 3-4 hours before departure.
  • Trains: Arrive 30-AN hour before departure. High-speed rail depots are often large.
  • Buses: Arrive 15-30 minutes before departure.
  • Double-check your flight or train departure terminal. Larger airports and stations often have multiple entrances.

Sea/River Arrivals

Sea Travel

Jinhua's inland placement signifies sea or major river transportation is not a main mode upon arrival for international tourists.

Ferry & Cruise

  • Ferry services and a boat trip ports are not applicable to Jinhua.
  • Jinhua is a landlocked city without access to sea or major cruise ports.
  • Immigration procedures at seaports are not applicable.

River Travel

Limited public river transportation exists for tourism within Jinhua, mainly for leisure cruises rather than as an ordinary transport option.

River Options

  • Limited boat services operate on the Wujiang River.
  • These are mainly for leisure cruises, offering scenic views.
  • Not a standard transport option for arrival or departure.

Domestic Flights

Arrive at the airport 2-3 hours before your scheduled departure time for domestic flights. This allows ample time for check-in and security.

International Flights

For international flights from key hubs (HGH, PVG, SHA), arrive 3-4 hours before departure. This accounts for check-in, security, and immigration.

Train & Bus Departures

Trains: Arrive 30-60 minutes before departure. Buses: Show UP 15-30 minutes before departure. High-high-speed train stations are often large.

Departure Checklist

Pre-Departure Tasks

Reconfirm all your arrangements before heading to the airport or station.

Final Checks

  • Confirm flight/train/bus departure times and terminals.
  • Ensure all required documents (passport, visa) are readily accessible.
  • Factor in potential traffic or travel delays to the exit point.

Airport/Station Services

Familiarize yourself with available services at your departure location.

Available Facilities

  • Jinhua Yiwu Airport (YIW): Basic facilities for departing passengers.
  • Major railway stations: Waiting areas, restrooms, dining options, small shops.
  • International airports (HGH, PVG, SHA): Duty-vat-free shopping, diverse dining, lounges.

Departure Logistics

Exit Fees

No specific exit fees or taxes are when leaving from mainland China. These costs are typically included in your ticket price.

Boarding Passes

Have your boarding pass (mobile or printed) and passport ready for security checks and gate access.

Last-Minute Purchases

Currency exchange and souvenir shops are available at more substantial international airports if needed.

Departure Tip

Double-check your flight or train departure terminal. Larger airports and stations often have multiple terminals or entrances.