How to get to Changde

Changde is a picturesque city in Hunan Province, renowned for its poetic traditions and the tranquil lake landscapes of China. If you are deciding how to reach Changde, you will find a developed transport infrastructure at your service, allowing you to travel comfortably by plane, high-speed train, or intercity coach. A trip to Changde is an excellent choice for those wishing to enjoy the harmony of nature and history, far from the bustle of giant metropolises.

For travellers, the most convenient way to reach Changde is a direct flight. The city is served by its own Changde Taohuayuan Airport (CGD), which receives regular flights from many major cities in China, including Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen.

The airport is located quite close to the city limits, so the transfer to your hotel will not take much time. If a direct flight cannot be found, you can utilize the airports of neighbouring tourist hubs—Changsha or Zhangjiajie—and cover the remaining part of the journey by bus or train.

Travelling by train is a comfortable and reliable option for visiting Changde. The city operates a railway station that serves not only regional lines but also modern high-speed lines, connecting it with the country's key transport hubs.

Services from the provincial capital, Changsha, are particularly popular. Thanks to the launch of high-speed trains, the journey takes minimal time, making it easy to include Changde in your travel itinerary across Hunan Province. There are also convenient connections with neighbouring cities, such as Yiyang and the famous Zhangjiajie.

Upon arrival at the station, tourists can easily reach the city centre or their hotel via taxi and numerous bus routes, continuing their exploration of the culture of China.

Bus services connect Changde with key points in Hunan Province thanks to a network of high-quality expressways. The most in-demand route runs from the administrative centre, Changsha: comfortable coaches cover the distance of 170 kilometres in approximately 2.5–3 hours. If you are travelling through Yiyang, the journey becomes even shorter, taking just about an hour, making this an ideal option for quick transfers.

Many travellers combine their trip with a visit to famous nature parks, departing for Changde from the city of Zhangjiajie. The road, spanning about 160 kilometres, takes around 3 hours, allowing you to enjoy peaceful views of rural landscapes and hills from the window. Tickets for intercity routes are generally easy to purchase on the spot, giving tourists flexibility in planning their route across China.

Travelling by car to Changde offers freedom of movement and the opportunity to admire the scenic views of Hunan Province. The most popular route leads from the city of Changsha: via a modern expressway, you will cover 170 kilometres in approximately 2–2.5 hours, while the drive from Yiyang, located along the way (about 90 km), will take just over an hour.

If you are heading from the direction of the famous Zhangjiajie mountains, count on a journey of 2–2.5 hours (160 km) on a high-quality highway. For intercity trips in China, it is convenient to use ride-hailing apps or to hire a car with a chauffeur; this will cost more than public transport but ensures maximum comfort and flexibility in your schedule.

Preparing for a trip to Changde requires attention to detail to ensure your journey goes as smoothly and comfortably as possible. We have compiled useful recommendations to help you feel confident in this picturesque corner of Hunan Province.

1. Clothing and Seasonality: The climate in Changde is humid subtropical. It is hot in summer, so choose loose-fitting clothing made from natural fabrics. In winter, the temperature rarely drops below zero, but due to high humidity, it can feel quite chilly—be sure to bring a windproof jacket and warm clothes. An umbrella will be useful in any season.
2. Transport: For moving around the city, it is most convenient to use taxis, which are inexpensive here. City buses run regularly, but route maps and stop announcements are usually only in Chinese. For comfort, it is recommended to install ride-hailing apps in advance or have your hotel name written in Chinese characters with you.
3. Finances: The national currency is the Yuan. International cards like Visa and Mastercard are accepted only in major hotels and high-end restaurants. The most reliable method of payment is cash or linking your card to Alipay or WeChat Pay systems, which are used everywhere in China, even in small shops.
4. Health and Safety: Changde is a safe city for tourists. Pharmacies can be recognized by the green cross sign; they sell both traditional medicine and Western preparations. However, it is better to bring your own familiar first-aid kit, especially digestive aids, as the local cuisine may be unfamiliar to your stomach.
5. Communication: Few locals speak English. Your smartphone will be your main assistant: be sure to download an offline translator that can translate voice and text from photos (for example, for reading menus).
6. Local Etiquette: Be polite and reserved. You can greet people with a slight nod. An important rule at the table: never stick chopsticks vertically into a bowl of rice—this resembles rituals for honouring the deceased and is considered a bad omen.
7. What to Avoid: It is strictly not recommended to drink tap water, even after boiling it may have a specific taste. Buy bottled water in supermarkets; it is cheap and guarantees safety.
8. Gastronomic Tip: Changde is famous for its rice noodles (Changde Rice Noodles). This is the main breakfast dish, served in round or flat varieties with a rich broth. Be cautious: by default, the dish can be very spicy, so when ordering, you can say "bu la" (not spicy). Muslim travellers should check with the vendor regarding ingredients, as recipes vary.

By following these simple tips, you can avoid minor inconveniences and fully focus on exploring the culture and beauty of Changde. May your journey leave only pleasant memories!