How to get to Chengde

Planning a trip to Chengde? This historic city in Hebei province, renowned for its magnificent imperial summer residence, attracts tourists from all over the world with its blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty. You can get here in various ways: by using the local airport, modern rail connections, or by taking a road trip from neighboring regions.

The fastest way to reach the region is by air. The city is served by Chengde Puning Airport (CDE), which receives flights from various parts of the country and is conveniently located near the center. This allows you to save significant travel time and start exploring the sights almost immediately after arrival.

If there are no direct flights, you can consider flying to neighboring cities such as Tangshan or Chifeng. From there, travelers can easily continue their journey by ground transport, enjoying the views on the way to the imperial capital.

Rail travel is one of the most comfortable ways to get to Chengde. The city features a modern railway station, including Chengde South Station, which accommodates high-speed trains. Thanks to the development of high-speed lines, travel time from major metropolises like Beijing has been significantly reduced.

If you are traveling from other regions, you can take a train to neighboring major hubs, for example, the cities of Tangshan or Chifeng. The developed railway network makes the trip convenient and accessible for most tourists.

Bus services remain a popular budget-friendly option for traveling to Chengde. Regular intercity routes connect the city with neighboring provinces and towns, offering tourists an alternative to trains and planes.

Modern buses provide an acceptable level of comfort, and routes often pass through picturesque areas. It is recommended to check the schedule at local bus stations, as the frequency of trips may depend on the season and tourist flow.

Traveling by car gives travelers flexibility and the opportunity to plan stops independently. A convenient route runs from the city of Tangshan: the distance is about 188 km, which usually takes around 2.5 hours.

Another popular option is the road from the city of Chifeng. You will have to drive approximately 200 km, which will also take about 2.5 hours. The road surface on main highways is generally of good quality, making driving comfortable.

A trip to Chengde will provide a wealth of impressions if you consider a few important nuances in advance. Here is a list of practical recommendations that will help make your journey more comfortable and safe.

1. Clothing and Seasonality. The climate here is continental, with hot summers and cold winters. For summer walks, take lightweight clothing and a hat, while in winter, a warm jacket and comfortable footwear are essential.
2. Transport in the City. To move between attractions, it is most convenient to use taxis or city buses. Many historical sites are located close to each other, so part of the route can be covered on foot.
3. Finances and Payment. The main currency is the Chinese Yuan. International cards are rarely accepted, so it is better to carry cash or set up Alipay and WeChat Pay applications.
4. Language Barrier. Few locals speak English. It is recommended to install an offline translator on your smartphone or carry cards with the names of your hotel and desired locations in Chinese.
5. Health. Drink only bottled water and avoid ice in drinks at street cafes. There are pharmacies in the city, but it is better to bring specific medicines with you.
6. Etiquette. Chinese people value courtesy and restraint. When visiting temples and historical sites, observe silence and adhere to dress code rules.
7. Safety. Use only official taxis with meters. Avoid intrusive offers from private drivers at stations to ensure fair pricing.
8. Visiting the Residence. The Mountain Resort is a vast complex. Arrive at the ticket office opening time to explore the main pavilions before the arrival of large tour groups.

By following these simple tips, you can avoid organizational difficulties and fully immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the ancient history and culture of this amazing place.