MileHacker Logo
How to Get to Wenzhou

How to Get to Wenzhou

Wenzhou Zhejiang, China Travel Guide

Air Travel to Wenzhou

Wenzhou Longwan International Airport WNZ

WNZ is the main airport, a modern facility handling domestic and scarce international flights. It has extensive connections to major Chinese cities via Air China, China Eastern, China Southern, and others.

Domestic Routes

  • Frequent flights to Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, Xi'an.
  • Connections to many other regional hubs.
  • Convenient connections from international gateway cities.

International Flights & Transfers

WNZ has limited direct international flights, typically to nearby Asian locations like Hong Kong special administrative region, Macau, Taipei, Bangkok, Osaka, Tokyo, and Kl.

Connecting to Wenzhou

  • No direct flights from North America, Europe, Africa, or Australia generally.
  • Fly into a significant Chinese international gateway airport first (Shanghai PVG, Beijing PEK, Guangzhou CAN).
  • Take a connecting domestic flight directly to Wenzhou Longwan International Airport (WNZ).

Seasonal Prices

Flight prices increase significantly during China's major holidays (Chinese New Year, May Day, Republic Day Golden Week) and summer months (July-August).

Airport Facilities

WNZ has a modern terminal with dining establishments, cafes, duty-free shops, currency exchange, ATMs, and free Wi-Fi.

Airport Transfers

Airport buses, taxis, Didi (ride-sharing), and the Wenzhou Rail Transit Line S1 (metro) connect WNZ to downtown and Wenzhou South Railway Station.

International Gateway Advice

Recommended Hubs

  • Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG).
  • Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK).
  • Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN).
  • These hubs offer wider international flight selections.

Connecting Flights

  • Book connecting domestic securing flights early.
  • Often more prices that are competitive for the overall journey.
  • Check current international route volatility from WNZ.
  • Always verify current schedules well in advance of travel.

Arrivals Tip

International Flight Strategy

For international flights, plan to arrive at a major Chinese hub, then take a domestic connection to Wenzhou.

Airport Navigation

Wenzhou Longwan International Airport has a single, modern terminal. Follow signs for ground transport options.

Connectivity

Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal. Mobile payment apps (WeChat Pay/Alipay) are useful for airport services.

Land Transportation Options

High-Speed Rail Connections

China's high-speed train system provides a fast and comfortable way to reach Wenzhou. Wenzhou South Railway Station is the main high-speed hub, serving G-series and D-series trains. Wenzhou Railway Station mainly handles conventional trains.

Train Routes

  • Shanghai Hongqiao: Approximately 4-5 hours.
  • Hangzhou East: About 2.5-3 hours.
  • Fuzhou: Approximately 2 hours.

Long-Distance Bus & Self-Driving

Wenzhou has several long-distance bus stations, with the Central Bus Station as a major hub connecting to various cities and towns. Buses are generally slower than trains but can reach smaller towns not served by rail.

Driving Considerations

  • International Driving Permit (IDP) is NOT recognized in mainland China.
  • Foreigners need a temporary or full Chinese driving permit to drive legally.
  • Self-using a car is not a practical option for most tourists. Hire a car with a local driver instead.

Road Conditions & Safety

Major highways connecting Wenzhou are well-maintained. Urban traffic can be dense and chaotic, notably at busy times. Expect heavy traffic, frequent horn-honking, and sometimes aggressive driving.

Driving Habits & Pedestrians

  • Driving habits can differ significantly from Countries in the west.
  • Pedestrians and cyclists may not always strictly follow road laws.
  • Always cross roads carefully, even at designated crossings, and continue to be alert.

Train Ticket Booking

Purchase rail passes online through platforms such as Trip.com (Ctrip), through official Chinese railway websites (12306.cn, mainly in Chinese), or at train station box offices.

Booking Advice

  • Book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to secure seats.
  • For inter-city travel, high-bullet train is often the fastest, most comfortable, and most efficient option.
  • Ensure you have your passport ready for ticket purchase and verification.

Border Crossing Info

  • Wenzhou is an inland city within Zhejiang Province.
  • No direct international land border crossings relevant to reaching the city.
  • Every international arrivals are by air or sea into a designated port of entry within China.
  • Standard immigration procedures apply at any Chinese port of entry.
  • Provide your passport and visa upon arrival.
  • Complete customs declaration forms.

Sea & River Transportation

Ferry Services to Islands

Wenzhou's coastal location means sea travel plays a role, specifically for reaching its islands. Wenzhou Port is a significant coastal port for domestic travel.

Popular Ferry Routes

  • Ferries connect to Nanji Island Marine Nature Reserve.
  • Services also connect to Dongtou Island for the shore landscapes and beaches.
  • Departures from various ports, like Pingyang Aojiang Port for Nanji Island.

River Transport & Cruises

The Oujiang River flows through Wenzhou. While a major waterway, significant river transit for tourist travel is limited to recreational options.

Oujiang River Experiences

  • Recreational boat tours on the Oujiang River offer scenic city views.
  • Evening cruises showcase Wenzhou's skyline illuminated by city lights.
  • A short ferry ride accesses Jiangxin Island, a popular attraction.

Domestic Ferry Travel

For domestic journey by ferry, your Chinese ID or passport is usually enough for ticket purchase and boarding.

Terminal Connections

Ferry terminals often connect to local bus services or taxi stands, for transfer to your next destination.

No International Cruises

Wenzhou is not a primary international cruise ship arrival port. Cruises typically dock in bigger cities such as Shanghai.

Departure Information

Departure Procedures & Timing

No specific exit fees or taxes are typically charged at airports or train stations for departing international travelers from China; these are usually included in your ticket price.

Recommended Arrival Times

  • International Flights (from WNZ, if rare): Arrive at least 2-3 hours before departure.
  • Domestic Flights (from WNZ): Arrive 1.5-2 hours before departure.
  • High-Speed Rail (Wenzhou South): Arrive 30-60 minutes before departure.

Airport & Station Facilities

Wenzhou Longwan International Airport (WNZ) offers check-in counters, baggage drop-off, security screening, and various waiting areas. Post-security, you will find shops (including duty-free) and restaurants.

Railway Station Amenities

  • Spacious ticket halls for purchasing or collecting tickets.
  • Large waiting rooms with ample seating.
  • Various food vendors and convenience stores.

Last-Minute Checks

Confirm Schedule

Confirm your flight or train schedule on the eve of departure.

Travel Time

Allow extra time for travel to the airport or station, especially during peak traffic hours.

Documents Ready

Have your ticket (digital or physical) and passport ready for verification.

Departure Reminder

Confirm your flight or train schedule the day prior to leaving. Allow extra time for travel to the airport or station, especially during peak traffic hours.