How to get to Daqing

If you have decided to travel to Daqing, located in the Heilongjiang province in northeast China, you can look forward to discovering a major industrial centre that is also renowned for its picturesque lakes and natural parks. Thanks to its developed infrastructure, planning how to get to Daqing is very simple: the city is open to travellers arriving by plane, train, or intercity bus. The choice of the optimal route depends on your starting point, but the transport accessibility of this metropolis makes the journey comfortable and predictable.

For travellers who value time, the main point of arrival will be Daqing Saertu Airport (DQA). This modern aviation hub receives regular flights from many of the country's metropolises, ensuring reliable connections with key regions. The terminal features convenient navigation and developed infrastructure, and thanks to its proximity to the city limits, the journey to the centre after landing is quick and comfortable.

If a direct flight is unavailable, tourists often choose the route through Harbin, located approximately 150 kilometres away. Its international airport boasts a significantly wider flight geography and serves as a convenient connecting hub. From there, you can easily reach your final destination by high-speed train. As alternative arrival options, one can also consider the neighbouring cities of Qiqihar and Songyuan, which have good transport links with the region.

Rail transport is one of the most popular and comfortable ways to reach this city. It is excellently integrated into the region's transport network: several stations operate here, the main ones being West Railway Station and East Railway Station. Both regular passenger and high-speed trains (CRH) arrive here regularly, connecting the metropolis with other parts of the province and the country.

It is especially convenient to get here from neighbouring major hubs — Harbin and Qiqihar. Thanks to the high-speed line, the travel time from Harbin is only about an hour, making the trip fast and tireless. The carriages of modern express trains are distinguished by a high level of comfort, so travellers can relax and enjoy the views of the northeastern plains before arriving at their destination.

Intercity buses connect this industrial centre with key neighbours, offering an excellent alternative to rail transport. The busiest route runs from the city of Harbin: covering the distance of 160 kilometres along a modern highway usually takes about two and a half hours. It is no less convenient to get from the city of Qiqihar located to the west, from where the trip lasts approximately two hours.

Travellers also have access to regular connections with the city of Songyuan, located in the neighbouring province; the road spanning about 150 kilometres will take a little over two hours. Local bus stations feature clear navigation, and the trips themselves are operated on comfortable buses, allowing you to enjoy the flat landscapes of the northeast on the way to your destination.

Car journeys across Northeast China are comfortable thanks to high-quality expressways. A trip from neighbouring Qiqihar will take just over two hours, as the cities are separated by only about 160 kilometres. The route from the provincial administrative centre, Harbin, is equally convenient: covering the distance of 168 kilometres takes approximately 2.5 hours, while enjoying views of the endless plains.

Another popular option is the route from the city of Songyuan, the length of which is about 185 kilometres, and the travel time is around two and a half hours. For those who do not plan to rent a car, an excellent alternative would be an intercity taxi: drivers often agree to a fixed fee, but it is better to agree on the cost in advance or use official Chinese car-hailing apps.

Preparing for a trip to Daqing will help make your journey through the "Oil Capital" of China as comfortable and carefree as possible. Despite the developed infrastructure, this city has its own regional characteristics that are worth considering in advance to avoid minor inconveniences.

1. Clothing and Climate. Daqing is located in the north, so winters here are harsh, long, and windy. If you are travelling from November to March, be sure to bring thermal underwear, a windproof down jacket, a warm hat, and gloves. Summer here is short but warm and rainy, so light clothing and an umbrella will come in handy. In the off-season, the weather is changeable, so dress in layers.
2. Urban Transport. The most convenient way to get around is by taxi, the prices for which are quite reasonable here. Be sure to have the name of your hotel or attraction written in Chinese characters to show the driver. The city also has a well-developed bus network, fares for which are very inexpensive, but navigating routes without knowing the language can be difficult.
3. Financial Matters. The official currency is the Chinese Yuan. International bank cards (Visa, Mastercard) are accepted only in large hotels and some high-end restaurants. It is highly recommended to install Alipay or WeChat Pay apps on your smartphone and link your card (this is now available for foreigners), as locals practically do not use cash. Nevertheless, it is worth keeping a small supply of paper notes for minor expenses.
4. Health and Water. Drinking tap water is strictly not recommended; buy bottled water in supermarkets. Pharmacies are marked with a green cross, but medicines are sold with Chinese names, so it is better to take a basic first aid kit with familiar medications with you, especially remedies for digestion and colds.
5. Language Barrier. Few people speak English in Daqing, even in the service sector. Download an offline translator to your phone in advance (for example, Baidu Translate or Google Translate with a downloaded language package). Apps with a photo translation function will help you read menus in restaurants and signs.
6. Local Etiquette. In China, it is not customary to leave tips in cafes and taxis — this may even embarrass the staff. Greetings are usually reserved; a nod or a light handshake is sufficient. When handing over a business card or money, try to use both hands — this is a sign of respect for the interlocutor.
7. What to Avoid. Beware of unlicensed taxi drivers who intrusively offer services at train stations and the airport; use official taxi stands or car-hailing apps. Also, try not to plan important trips during national holidays (for example, Chinese New Year or "Golden Week" in October), when the city and transport are overloaded.
8. Relaxation Tip. Daqing is famous not only for oil but also for its hot springs, especially in the Lindian County area. Be sure to set aside a day to visit one of the spa complexes with thermal water — this is the best way to relax, especially if your trip falls during the cold season.

Following these simple recommendations will allow you to focus on exploring the city's unique architecture and natural parks without being distracted by domestic difficulties. Daqing is a hospitable city, and with the right preparation, it will leave you with only the warmest memories.