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How to Get to Yiwu

How to Get to Yiwu

Yiwu Zhejiang, China Travel Guide

Air Hubs and Connections

Major Airports Serving Yiwu

Yiwu Airport (YIW): A small domestic airport with limited international connections, mainly to regional Asian hubs like Hong Kong. It mostly serves domestic flights within China.

International Gateways

  • Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport (HGH): About 120 km (75 miles) north of Yiwu, a key global airport.
  • Shanghai Pudong (PVG) & Hongqiao (SHA): Larger, world-class international hubs, about 300 km (186 miles) northeast.
  • These offer the broadest range of international flights to eastern China.

Airlines and Price Trends

Yiwu Airport (YIW): Served by major Chinese domestic airlines (China Southern, China Eastern, Air China). Routes connect to other large Chinese cities and Hong Kong.

International Airline Presence

  • HGH & PVG/SHA: Served by a broad array of international airlines (Cathay Pacific, KLM, Qatar Airways) and all major Chinese carriers.
  • Flight prices generally rise during Chinese public holidays, summer holidays, and major trade fair seasons.
  • Booking flights several booking months ahead is a good idea, especially for peak periods.

Direct Flights

Direct international flights typically land in Hangzhou (HGH) or Shanghai (PVG/SHA). YIW has very limited direct international connections.

Airport Facilities

YIW offers basic facilities. HGH and Shanghai airports provide a full selection of international services.

Connecting to Yiwu

From HGH or Shanghai, travelers connect to Yiwu via high-speed train or direct bus services.

Transfer Options to Yiwu

From Yiwu Airport YIW

  • Taxis are readily available; a ride to the city center costs ¥20-40.
  • Courtesy bus buses offer regular services to points in Yiwu.
  • These options are straight and quick for domestic arrivals.

From Hangzhou Xiaoshan HGH

  • Direct transfer buses run frequently to Yiwu (1.5-2 hours, ¥60-80).
  • Shuttle bus to Hangzhou East Railway Station, then high-speed train to Yiwu (30-40 mins, ¥50-80).
  • High-speed train is faster overall if connections align well.

From Shanghai PVG/SHA to Yiwu

High-speed Train from PVG

Take Maglev or Metro Line 2 to Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station (1.5 hours transfer).

High-speed Train from SHA

SHA connects directly to Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station for quick transfers.

Train to Yiwu

From Hongqiao Railway Station, high-speed train to Yiwu Railway Station (1.5-2 hours, ¥120-150).

Land Transportation to Yiwu

Train Connections

Yiwu Railway Station is a major stop on China's high-speed railway network, offering rapid and comfortable connections. This connects to many cities.

High-speed Train Network

  • Connects Yiwu to Hangzhou (30-40 minutes) and Shanghai (1.5-2 hours).
  • Also connects to Beijing (6.5-7 hours) and Guangzhou (SEVEN hours).
  • Book tickets online via 12306 or Trip.com well in advance.

Long-Distance Bus Options

Yiwu operates a central long-distance bus station, the Yiwu International Trade City Passenger Transport Center.

Bus Network and Booking

  • Extensive network connects Yiwu to towns within Zhejiang and neighboring provinces.
  • Bus travel is generally cheaper than high-speed trains.
  • Buses are slower for long distances compared to trains. Tickets at the station or local apps.

Self-Driving Considerations

Foreigners cannot legally drive in mainland China with an international driving permit or a foreign driver's license. A valid Chinese driving license is a must.

Car Rental and Driving

  • Car rental is generally not an option for most international visitors.
  • Traffic can be heavy, especially during peak hours. Driving habits differ significantly.
  • Defensive driving is important due to local traffic dynamics.

Road Conditions and Safety

Main roads and highways in and around Yiwu are generally well-maintained. Urban roads within Yiwu are also good.

Urban Traffic

  • Congestion is often congested, especially during rush hours.
  • Be aware of electric scooters, bicycles, and pedestrians who may not follow traffic rules diligently.
  • This environment has challenges for unfamiliar drivers.

Important Travel Notes

  • Border Crossing Information: This is not applicable for Yiwu as it is a landlocked city. There are no international land borders directly connected to Yiwu.
  • Sea/River Arrivals: This is not applicable for Yiwu. It is an inland city, and its rivers do not see employ for passenger arrivals.
  • Do not anticipate direct sea or river access for passenger travel to Yiwu.
  • The nearest major seaports (Ningbo-Zhoushan, Shanghai) are for cargo, not passenger ferries connected to Yiwu.
  • River transportation is not a significant mode of passenger access for Yiwu.
  • Immigration procedures at seaports are not applicable for Yiwu-bound travelers.

Departure Information

Departure Procedures and Timing

China does not impose a separate departure tax. Any such fees are usually part of your airfare. Plan your departure well.

Recommended Arrival Times

  • Yiwu Airport (YIW - Domestic): Arrive 1.5-2 hours before your flight for check-in and security.
  • Hangzhou/Shanghai (International): Be THERE two.5-3 hours before your flight.
  • This allows ample time for check-in, baggage drop-off, security, and immigration.

Train Departures and Facilities

Yiwu Train Station offers a comfortable experience for departing travelers. High-speed rail travel involves security checks.

Station Facilities and Timing

  • Yiwu Railway Station: Arrive 30-45 minutes before departure.
  • The station features waiting areas, some shops, and food stalls.
  • Larger airports (HGH, PVG, SHA) provide comprehensive facilities, including duty-free shopping.

Yiwu Airport YIW

Basic facilities for domestic departing passengers.

Yiwu Railway Station

Waiting areas, shops, and food stalls are available.

Major Hub Airports

Comprehensive facilities, including extensive dining, duty-free shopping, and lounges.

Departure Checklist

Essential Departure Considerations

Confirm your departure information and allow extra time for travel to the airport or train station, especially during peak hours.

Reminders

  • China does not have a separate departure tax; it is a portion of your airfare.
  • Always confirm your flight or train schedule well in advance.
  • Allow additional time if you are unfamiliar with the route to the departure point.

Final Preparations

Efficient departure planning can cap off a productive trip to Yiwu. Make sure all travel documents are easily accessible.

Checklist Items

  • Ensure passport and visa are readily available for final checks.
  • Verify baggage weight and dimensions to avoid surprises.
  • Power off all electronic devices before security screening.

Summary of Departure Points

Yiwu Airport

Mainly for domestic flights, quick check-in.

Yiwu Railway Station

Good for high-speed train connections to major cities.

Hangzhou/Shanghai Airports

International flights, allow ample time for procedures.

Travel Planning Final Tip

For efficient travel, especially if arriving internationally, flying to Hangzhou (HGH) or Shanghai (PVG/SHA) and connecting to Yiwu via high-speed train is often preferred. Pre-booking train tickets is a good choice, especially during peak times, using apps like Trip.com.

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