How to get to Ezhou

If you have decided to travel to Ezhou, a journey awaits you to a vibrant city with a rich history, situated on the banks of the Yangtze River in the central part of China. Thanks to the strategic location and developed infrastructure of Hubei Province, planning how to reach Ezhou is hassle-free: tourists can travel by plane, high-speed train, or intercity bus.

The fastest way to reach your destination is by air. The local Ezhou Huahu Airport (EHU) is located in close proximity to the city limits, making the trip to the centre quick and comfortable. This modern transport hub ensures convenient connections with a number of regions.

As a primary alternative, many travellers choose to fly via Wuhan. The large international airport of the neighbouring metropolis receives significantly more flights and serves as a major hub. The distance between the cities is approximately 60 kilometres, so the subsequent transfer by high-speed train or car will not take much time.

Travelling by rail is one of the most convenient and popular ways to reach your destination. Unlike many smaller settlements, Ezhou boasts its own railway station, which services modern high-speed trains. The station is located within the city, allowing tourists to easily switch to local transport immediately upon arrival.

The most frequent connections are established with the neighbouring metropolis: high-speed express trains from Wuhan depart regularly and cover the distance in just 20–30 minutes. This makes the trip quick and tireless. Trains arriving from other regions also pass through the station, ensuring a reliable link with the transport network of the entire country.

Intercity buses remain an affordable and scenic alternative for those who wish to enjoy views of Hubei Province on their way to Ezhou. The heaviest traffic connects the city with neighbouring Wuhan: comfortable coaches cover the distance of 60–70 kilometres in just 1–1.5 hours, departing from the metropolis's key bus stations with enviable regularity.

Direct routes from nearby transport hubs are also popular, allowing for convenient planning of complex itineraries. A trip from the city of Macheng will take about 2 hours for a distance of around 110 kilometres, while a bus from Jiujiang, located 150 kilometres away, will deliver you to your destination in approximately 2.5 hours.

Travelling by car offers you freedom of movement and the opportunity to enjoy the picturesque landscapes of Hubei Province at your own pace. The shortest and most popular route runs from neighbouring Wuhan: a comfortable drive of about 81 kilometres will take approximately 1 hour 25 minutes. The quality of the road surface on the region's main highways is high, making driving pleasant and safe.

If you are heading from other locations, the journey will also not take much time. The road from Macheng, spanning about 112 kilometres, will take around 2 hours, while a transfer from Jiujiang (a distance of 174 kilometres) will require about 2 hours 10 minutes. Taxi booking services via mobile apps are excellently developed in China, so you can reach the city without renting a private vehicle, while the cost of the trip remains quite affordable.

Before travelling to Ezhou, it is useful to learn a few nuances that will make your stay in this part of China as comfortable as possible. We have prepared a list of practical recommendations covering the most important aspects of the journey — from wardrobe selection to local payment specifics.

1. Wardrobe selection. The climate in Ezhou is humid subtropical. Summers can be hot and humid, so choose light clothing made from natural fabrics. In winter, temperatures rarely drop below freezing, but due to high humidity, it feels colder, so a windproof jacket and warm clothes will be appropriate. An umbrella is useful at any time of the year.
2. Transport nuances. For getting around the city, it is most convenient to use a taxi, as it is relatively inexpensive. However, hailing a car on the street can be difficult; it is better to ask hotel staff to call one for you. Be sure to have the name of your destination written in Chinese characters to show the driver.
3. Finance and payment. The local currency is the Chinese Yuan. Cash is accepted less and less frequently, and international Visa or Mastercard cards do not work everywhere. The most reliable method is to install Alipay or WeChat Pay apps in advance and link your card to them for contactless payment via QR codes.
4. Health and water. It is strongly recommended not to drink tap water; always purchase bottled water. Pharmacies are common in the city and are marked with a green cross, but many medicines are sold under local names, so it is better to bring necessary medications from home.
5. Language barrier. In Ezhou, as in many non-capital cities, the level of English proficiency among the population is not high. We strongly recommend downloading an offline translator to your smartphone with voice input and photo translation functions — this will significantly simplify communication in shops and restaurants.
6. Local etiquette. Greetings are usually limited to a nod or a handshake. In restaurants, do not leave chopsticks vertically stuck in rice — this is associated with funeral rites. It is customary to present business cards, money, or gifts with two hands as a sign of respect.
7. What to avoid. Do not rely on familiar Western maps and navigators, as they may work incorrectly or not be updated. Use local map alternatives or pre-downloaded offline schematics. Also, avoid discussing sensitive political topics with local residents.
8. Gastronomic advice. Ezhou is famous for its fish, especially the renowned "Wuchang" species (bream). Be sure to try dishes made from fresh river fish in local establishments — this is a hallmark of the region's culinary tradition and a delightful option for seafood lovers.

Observing these simple rules will help avoid everyday difficulties and allow you to fully focus on exploring the culture and atmosphere of the city. Ezhou is a hospitable place that will give you plenty of pleasant impressions if you are prepared for its unique features.