How to get to Chenzhou

Chenzhou is a scenic city located in the south of Hunan Province in China, renowned for its natural beauty and its status as the "southern gateway" of the region. For those planning to visit Chenzhou, it is helpful to know that the city is served by convenient transport routes connecting it to the country's major metropolises. Figuring out how to get to Chenzhou is quite simple: you can travel by plane, high-speed train, or bus, enjoying comfort throughout your journey.

Travelling to Chenzhou by air has become much more convenient thanks to the Chenzhou Beihu Airport. This aviation hub serves domestic flights, connecting the region with various corners of China, allowing tourists to reach the city with minimal travel time.

Alternatively, you can consider flying to major international airports in neighbouring metropolises, such as Changsha or Guangzhou. They receive numerous flights and possess developed transport infrastructure, making it easy to continue your journey to your final destination by high-speed train or bus.

Getting to Chenzhou by train is very easy, as the city is a significant hub on the country's high-speed railway map. This is perhaps the most popular and convenient method of travel for tourists who value time and comfort.

Trains arrive at the modern Chenzhou West (Chenzhouxi) station. Thanks to high-speed connections, the city has direct and fast links with major cities such as Guangzhou, Changsha, and Wuhan. The express journey is smooth and allows you to reach your destination in a matter of hours.

Bus travel allows you to see the authentic, non-tourist life of the Chinese countryside and enjoy the views of Hunan Province. A convenient route connects the city with Shaoguan: the bus covers the distance of 170 kilometres in approximately 2.5 hours, following modern expressways. This is an excellent option for those travelling from the south who wish to reach their destination smoothly, bypassing the bustle of large railway stations.

Regular services from neighbouring districts are also popular: the journey from Hengyang (about 150 km) takes no more than two hours. Tourists departing from Yongzhou will travel about 200 kilometres, which usually takes around 3 hours in the comfortable cabin of an intercity coach.

Travelling by car along Chinese highways is a comfortable way to reach the city while enjoying the picturesque landscapes of Hunan Province. A trip from neighbouring Hengyang will take less than two hours, as the distance is only about 150 kilometres, while the 170-kilometre journey from Shaoguan requires approximately 2.5 hours.

The route from Yongzhou is slightly longer—about 200 kilometres—which is easily covered in 3 hours on high-quality expressways. For those who prefer not to drive, taxis or private transfers can be booked via popular apps; however, it is worth noting that the cost of such an intercity trip will be significantly higher than a train ticket due to toll road fees.

Preparing for a trip to Chenzhou requires attention to detail to ensure your journey through China is as comfortable as possible. We have compiled a list of practical recommendations to help you quickly adapt to local specifics.

• Clothing and Seasonality. The climate in Hunan Province is humid: summers are hot, while winters can be damp and chilly due to the lack of central heating in most buildings. During the cold season, be sure to bring thermal underwear and warm clothes. Comfortable shoes with non-slip soles are essential for visiting Mangshan Mountains and Dongjiang Lake.
• Digital Services. Cash is gradually falling out of use, and vendors often do not have change. The best solution is to install Alipay or WeChat Pay apps in advance and link your bank card. This will allow you to pay for purchases with your phone even in small shops.
• Transport. The most convenient way to get around is by taxi, but hailing a car on the street is difficult. We recommend using the car-hailing functions built into payment apps (such as Alipay). City buses are cheap, but all navigation is displayed only in Chinese characters.
• Language Barrier. English is practically not used in Chenzhou outside of luxury hotels. Be sure to download an offline translator with the ability to translate signs via photo and voice input—this will be your main tool for communication.
• Food and Water. Hunan cuisine is famous for its spiciness, often exceeding that of Sichuan cuisine. If you are not accustomed to hot peppers, ask for the dish to be prepared "bu la" (not spicy). Do not drink tap water; buy only bottled water.
• Local Etiquette. Receive and offer business cards, money, or gifts with both hands as a sign of respect. At the table, do not stick chopsticks vertically into rice and do not point at people with them.
• Time Planning. To see the famous morning mist over the Xiao Dongjiang River and the fishermen with nets, you need to arrive at the site by 6:00–6:30 AM. Try to avoid travelling during "Golden Week" (early October) and Chinese New Year, when attractions are overcrowded with tourists.

Following these simple rules will make your stay in the city easy and safe, allowing you to focus on the unique nature and culture of the region.