How to get to Changchun

Changchun is a major industrial and cultural hub in Northeast China, often referred to as the "City of Automobiles" and the "Chinese Hollywood." Located in the heart of Jilin Province, this metropolis combines wide avenues, modern architecture, and unique historical heritage from the Manchukuo era. When planning how to get to Changchun, travellers can choose from a variety of convenient options: from direct flights and high-speed trains to journeys by car along picturesque routes.

The fastest and most comfortable way to reach the region is by air. The city's main air gateway is Changchun Longjia International Airport (CGQ), which serves millions of passengers annually and boasts an extensive route network. The airport is conveniently located relative to the city centre, allowing tourists to quickly begin exploring the city immediately upon arrival.

If direct tickets are unavailable, you might consider flying to neighbouring cities and then transferring to ground transport. The nearest airport is located in the city of Jilin, just 99 km from the destination. The airports in the cities of Siping and Songyuan, located within a radius of 100–150 km, can also serve as convenient alternatives.

Rail transport in China is excellently developed, and travelling by train is often the optimal choice in terms of price and speed. The main flow of passengers is handled by Changchun Railway Station, which is a vital transport hub for the region. Both high-speed express trains and regular trains from various corners of the country arrive here.

For those travelling within the province, the railway offers excellent connectivity with neighbouring cities. Getting here from Jilin or Siping is very quick thanks to the short distances. There are also regular routes from Songyuan, making train travel convenient for multi-stop itineraries.

Bus services remain an accessible and popular option for trips over short and medium distances. Regular services connect the metropolis with neighbouring settlements, offering a budget-friendly alternative to trains. The most popular routes run from the cities of Jilin and Siping, from where buses depart quite frequently.

Although the travel time by bus may be longer than by high-speed train, this mode of transport allows you to enjoy views of the province. Routes also exist from the city of Songyuan. Tickets for intercity buses can usually be purchased directly at bus stations before departure, but during public holidays, it is recommended to arrange this in advance.

Travelling by car gives you the freedom to choose your route and departure time. The road network in this part of the country is modern and of high quality. One of the shortest routes leads from the city of Siping: the distance is about 118 km, which usually takes around 1.6 hours to drive. A trip from neighbouring Jilin (about 123 km) will require approximately 1.8 hours.

If you are heading from the city of Songyuan, the journey will take a little longer — about 2.2 hours to cover a distance of 170 km. Using a taxi or a rental car (provided you have a Chinese driving license) can be a convenient option for a group or family, allowing for "door-to-door" travel with maximum comfort.

Changchun is a city with distinct seasons and a unique cultural code. To ensure your trip is as comfortable as possible and leaves only pleasant impressions, please pay attention to the following practical recommendations.

1. Clothing for the season. Winters here are harsh and windy, with temperatures potentially dropping below -20°C, so be sure to pack thermal underwear, a warm jacket, and non-slip footwear. Summers, conversely, can be warm and humid — light, breathable clothing will be useful.
2. Transport. The city boasts a developed metro and light rail transit (LRT) system, which is the fastest way to avoid traffic jams. Taxis are also available and relatively inexpensive, but drivers rarely speak English.
3. Finance and Payment. Cash is used less and less frequently. The primary method of payment is mobile applications like Alipay or WeChat Pay. It is recommended to link your card to one of these systems in advance, as international Visa/Mastercard cards are not accepted everywhere.
4. Language Barrier. English is not widely spoken outside of major hotels. Be sure to download an offline translator with voice recognition and photo-translation features for characters.
5. Health. In winter, the air can be dry, and smog is occasionally observed. Carrying moisturising cream and, if necessary, a protective face mask is advisable. Pharmacies (marked with a green cross) are frequently found.
6. Internet and Connectivity. Familiar Western services and social networks are blocked in China. To access them, install a reliable VPN in advance or purchase a tourist SIM card (eSIM) that bypasses these restrictions.
7. Visiting Attractions. Many museums, including the famous Puppet Emperor's Palace (Palace of Pu Yi), require advance ticket booking via WeChat mini-programs. Ask hotel staff to assist with the booking if you encounter difficulties with the interface.

By following these simple tips, you can avoid everyday inconveniences and focus entirely on exploring the history and culture of this interesting northeastern metropolis.