Ningbo Zhejiang, China Travel Guide
NGB is the main airport serving Ningbo, approximately 12 kilometers southwest of the city center. It handles domestic and limited international/regional flights. Direct long-haul intercontinental flights to Ningbo are rare. The majority of foreign visitors fly into a major Chinese hub (Shanghai, Beijing, Guangzhou) then take a domestic flight or high-speed train to Ningbo.
NGB offers standard facilities including baggage services, ATMs, currency exchange, duty-free shops, restaurants, car rental, and lounges. Free Wi-Fi is available. Several options exist for reaching your destination from the airport.
Flight prices rise during peak domestic travel seasons: Chinese New Year, National Day (Oct 1-7), and summer holidays (July-Aug). Prices are more stable during shoulder and low seasons.
Book flights well in advance during peak periods to secure better rates and availability. Utilize tools like Dollar Flight Club or Skyscanner.
You won't pay exit fees exist for departing mainland China by air or land for tourists. The cost of international flights typically includes any relevant taxes.
Regular ferry services connect Ningbo (Zhenhai Port or Beilun Port) to Zhoushan Archipelago islands, notably Putuoshan. The journey to Putuoshan involves a bus after that a ferry.
Ningbo sometimes serves as a trading port of call for international cruise lines, less frequently than Shanghai or Tianjin. Check specific cruise itineraries.
River transportation for tourist purposes is limited, mainly serving commercial shipping within Ningbo's rivers.
Ningbo Railway Station is the main hub, offering high-speed (G/D-series) and conventional (K/Z-series) train services. High-speed rail connects Ningbo to major cities across China, including Shanghai, Hangzhou, and Beijing.
Ningbo Long-Distance Bus Station serves ways to various cities and towns within Zhejiang Province and surrounding provinces. Buses present a good alternative for regional travel, especially for destinations not served by high-speed rail or for shorter distances.
Foreigners generally cannot drive in mainland China with an international driving permit or foreign driver's license alone. A Chinese driver'a driving license is required, that is usually impractical for short-term tourists. Rental cars with drivers are an option.
Purchase train tickets at station ticket counters (bring your passport). You can also buy them online via Chinese railway websites (12306.cn, registration and From china payment method needed) or through third-party platforms.
Ningbo Lishe International Airport (NGB) has a selection of facilities for departing travelers, ensuring comfort and convenience before you set off. These facilities include essential services and amenities.
Ningbo Railway Station and Long-Distance Bus Station also provide facilities for departing travelers, making the waiting period comfortable. These encompass various amenities to cater to passenger needs.
No specific exit fees or taxes for tourists departing mainland China by air or land. International flights typically include any relevant taxes in their cost.
Arrive at Ningbo Lishe International Airport (NGB) at least 2 hours before domestic flights and 3 hours before international or regional flights.
Arrive at Ningbo Railway Station or Long-Distance Bus Station at least 30-60 minutes before departure, especially during peak travel times.
Immigration procedures at seaports mirror airport immigration processes. Passengers present their passport and visa for verification upon arrival or departure at Ningbo's port facilities.
Ferry terminals typically feature local bus connections and taxis, ensuring seamless onward transfer for passengers to Ningbo city center or other transportation hubs.
Official Chinese railway website. Requires registration and often a Chinese payment method.
Third-party platform for booking tickets, generally more user-friendly for international travelers.
Booking in advance, especially for popular routes and during peak seasons, is highly recommended.
For flight search and deals, Dollar Flight Club and Skyscanner are valuable resources. When considering car rentals, DiscoverCars.com offers competitive options, but remember Chinese driving license rules.
