How to get to Changzhou

Changzhou is a dynamically developing city in Jiangsu Province, situated in the picturesque Yangtze River Delta. When planning a trip to Changzhou, tourists discover a unique blend of ancient history, renowned amusement parks, and modern technology. Reaching this fascinating corner of China is possible through various means: utilizing the local airport, the high-speed rail network, or convenient highways.

For travelers who value time, the most convenient option is a direct flight to Changzhou Airport (CZX). This modern aviation hub receives flights from many major cities across the country and is located at a comfortable distance from the city center, ensuring a quick transfer to your hotel.

Alternatively, you may consider flying into neighboring Wuxi, where the airport is located just 48 km from your destination. Thanks to the proximity of these cities, the journey from Wuxi airport to Changzhou takes very little time, allowing you to reach your destination with ease.

Rail travel is one of the most popular and efficient ways to reach the city, as it is situated on a busy high-speed line. Comfortable high-speed trains run regularly through Changzhou’s stations, connecting it with the region's key metropolises.

A train journey from the neighboring city of Wuxi (48 km) takes mere minutes, while the route from the city of Zhenjiang (67 km) is also very fast and convenient. The Chinese railway network is renowned for its punctuality, so tourists often choose this mode of transport to travel between cities in the province.

Bus services in Jiangsu Province are well-developed and offer a budget-friendly alternative to trains for travel between neighboring cities. Modern intercity buses are generally equipped with air conditioning and ensure a comfortable journey for passengers.

Routes from cities such as Wuxi or Zhenjiang allow you to reach Changzhou while enjoying the scenery along the way. Although travel time may depend on traffic conditions, the short distances between cities make the bus trip quite relaxing.

Traveling by car or taxi offers maximum flexibility in planning your route, especially if you are traveling with significant luggage. The drive from the neighboring city of Wuxi takes just over an hour (about 1.1 h), covering a distance of approximately 75 km on high-quality expressways.

It is also convenient to travel from the city of Zhenjiang: the journey of about 79 km takes approximately 1.1 hours. When using a taxi, it is recommended to have the name of your hotel written in Chinese characters to avoid any misunderstanding with the driver.

To ensure your trip to Changzhou is as comfortable and hassle-free as possible, it is worth preparing for local specifics in advance. Here are some practical tips that will be useful for every tourist.

1. Clothing and Seasonality. The climate here is humid subtropical. Summers can be very hot and humid, so choose light, natural fabrics. Winters are cool but without severe frosts—a warm jacket and comfortable shoes will be necessary.
2. Payment Systems. Cash and international Visa/Mastercard cards are rarely accepted. The primary method of payment is via Alipay or WeChat Pay apps, to which you should link your card in advance.
3. Connectivity and Internet. Familiar Western services and messengers may be unavailable. It is recommended to arrange roaming in advance or install necessary VPN services, and use local maps for navigation.
4. Language Barrier. English is not widely spoken. Be sure to download an offline translator on your smartphone and save your hotel address in Chinese for taxi drivers.
5. Water and Hygiene. Drinking tap water is strongly discouraged. Purchase bottled water in stores or boil it at your hotel before consumption.
6. City Transport. It is convenient to call taxis via apps (for example, DiDi, which is built into Alipay). Public transport is well-developed, but route maps may be in Chinese only.
7. Local Etiquette. When handing over business cards, money, or gifts, use both hands—this is a sign of respect. Tipping in restaurants is not customary.

Following these simple recommendations will help you adapt quickly and focus on exploring the attractions of this amazing city.