Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport

Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport (HGH) is not merely the air gateway to Hangzhou, the picturesque capital of Zhejiang Province in China, but also one of the country's busiest and most modern aviation hubs. Located 27 kilometres east of the centre of Hangzhou, it serves as a vital centre for both domestic and international flights. The airport impresses with its infrastructure, particularly the new Terminal T4, opened in 2022, which has significantly increased its capacity and passenger comfort. Its architecture and convenience make starting a journey through the Yangtze River Delta region particularly pleasant.

Features and Advantages of the Airport

Hangzhou Xiaoshan Airport offers passengers a high level of service and amenities. It consists of four terminals (T1, T2, T3, and T4), with the new Terminal T4 being the largest and serving both domestic and international flights. Shuttle buses run between the terminals for ease of movement.

Transport accessibility is one of the airport's key advantages. You can reach the city centre in several ways: by metro (lines 1, 7, and 19), shuttle buses connecting the airport to various points in the city and neighbouring towns, or by taxi. A metro journey to the centre takes about 50 minutes. Inside the terminals, travellers will find everything they need: Duty Free shops, a variety of restaurants, currency exchange points, luggage storage, free Wi-Fi, and comfortable rest zones.

There are several ways to contact representatives of Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport (HGH). Below are the main contact details for passengers.

• Official Website: You will find the most complete and up-to-date information on the airport's official portal — www.hzairport.com. The site is available in Chinese and English.
• Information Service Phone: For immediate information on flights, services, and terminal operations, you can call the 24-hour number: +86-571-96299.
• Airport Address: Airport Road, Xiaoshan District, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
• Email: A direct email address for general enquiries is usually not published. To contact specific departments, it is recommended to use the feedback forms on the official website.
• Social Media: The airport maintains active pages on popular Chinese social networks (such as WeChat), where you can also follow news and updates.
• Lost Luggage Information: If you have lost your belongings in the terminal or left them on board the aircraft, please contact the Lost and Found service. Contact numbers and office location are listed in the relevant section of the airport website.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For any questions related to your stay at the airport, you can contact the main information service number.

Getting to Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport (HGH) from the centre of Hangzhou and back is possible via several convenient methods suitable for any budget and preference. The choice of transport depends on your priorities: speed, comfort, or economy.

Public Transport: Metro and Buses
One of the fastest and most reliable options is the metro. Several lines serve the airport, including Line 1, Line 7, and the high-speed Line 19 (Airport Express), which allows you to reach the city centre in approximately 30-40 minutes. This is the ideal choice to avoid city traffic jams. Another popular and budget-friendly method is the airport shuttle buses. They operate on numerous routes, connecting the airport not only with different districts of the city but also with neighbouring towns. Travel time by bus is usually 60-90 minutes.

Taxi and Transfer
For maximum comfort, especially if you have a lot of luggage or are travelling with family, you can use a taxi or book a private transfer in advance. A taxi ride from the city centre will take about 40-60 minutes, excluding traffic. The cost will be significantly higher than public transport, but it is the most convenient "door-to-door" method. It is recommended to use official taxi services or trusted mobile applications.

Car Rental and Parking
If you plan to actively explore Zhejiang Province, renting a car might be a good solution. Offices of several major international and local rental companies are present at the airport. For those arriving by private transport, spacious parking zones for short-term and long-term parking are provided on the airport grounds, located within walking distance of the terminals.

It is also worth noting that other major airports in China are located relatively close to Hangzhou. For example, Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport can be reached by high-speed train, and Ningbo Airport is approximately 110 km away. This provides additional options when planning your journey.

Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport (HGH) is a large and modern aviation hub that has expanded significantly in recent years. The airport consists of four terminals: T1, T2, T3, and the newest T4, which has become the main centre of operations. Terminals T1 and T3 primarily serve domestic flights, while T2, the former international terminal, is gradually transferring its functions to the new complex. The main passenger flow, including the majority of international and some domestic flights, now passes through the gigantic and ultra-modern Terminal 4.

In terms of navigation, terminals T1, T2, and T3 represent a single, older complex connected by internal walkways. Terminal 4 is a separate massive building linked to the rest of the airport and the city via a huge Ground Transportation Centre (GTC). Signs in the airport are duplicated in Chinese and English, facilitating orientation. Arrival areas are traditionally located on the lower floors, while departure and check-in areas are on the upper floors. Movement between the old complex (T1/T2/T3) and the new Terminal 4 is possible both on foot via covered galleries and by free shuttle buses.

The features of the terminals vary. Terminals T1 and T3 offer a standard range of services for domestic passengers: cafes, shops, and waiting lounges. Terminal 4, in turn, is the airport's flagship. It impresses with its futuristic design, immense space, large selection of restaurants, premium shops, and spacious Duty Free zones. The main services for international travellers are concentrated here.

To avoid rushing, it is recommended to arrive at the airport well in advance. For domestic flights, allow at least 2 hours before departure, and for international flights — 3-4 hours. This is especially relevant for departures from Terminal 4, as distances within it can be significant. Check-in and security procedures are organised efficiently, but queues are possible during peak hours. Always check your terminal and gate number in advance on the airport website or your ticket, as flight allocations may change.

The history of Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport (HGH) is a vivid example of the rapid infrastructure development of modern China. The airport was built to replace the old Hangzhou Jianqiao Airport, which could no longer cope with the growing passenger traffic. Construction began in 1997, and by the end of 2000, the new air harbour welcomed its first flights. From the very beginning, the airport was designed with the future in mind, featuring a runway capable of accommodating long-haul aircraft such as the Boeing 747.

Already in 2001, the airport received international status, opening new opportunities for tourism and business development in the region. The first phase of large-scale expansion was completed by 2012: a second runway was put into operation and a new international terminal (known today as Terminal 2) was opened. This allowed for a significant increase in capacity, making the airport one of the key hubs in the east of the country.

One of the most important events in the airport's history was the G20 Summit in 2016, held in Hangzhou. Xiaoshan Airport acted as the main air gateway for world leaders and thousands of delegates, demonstrating the highest level of organisation and security. For this event, the infrastructure was further modernised to meet global standards.

The latest chapter in the airport's history is linked to preparations for the Asian Games. In 2022, the grandiose Terminal 4 was opened — one of the largest terminal complexes in the country. Its architecture is inspired by the city's symbol — the lotus flower. This allowed Xiaoshan Airport to rank among the world's largest aviation hubs in terms of area and capacity, exceeding 50 million passengers per year.

An interesting fact: the airport was built on reclaimed land on the southern bank of the Qiantang River, which is an impressive engineering achievement. Today, HGH is not just a transport hub, but a symbol of the dynamic growth and innovation that characterise modern Hangzhou. It consistently ranks among the top ten busiest airports in China for both passenger and cargo traffic.

Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport (HGH) is a modern and comfortable hub offering passengers a wide range of services for a pleasant wait before their flight. Here you will find numerous restaurants and cafes to suit every taste: from establishments serving traditional Chinese cuisine to popular international fast-food chains. For shopping enthusiasts, numerous shops are open, including Duty Free featuring perfumes, premium goods, and tobacco products, as well as boutiques of famous brands and souvenir shops.

For those who wish to stay connected or work, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport. Numerous charging stations for electronic devices are located throughout the terminals. Business travellers can utilise business centre services and rent conference rooms for meetings.

For comfortable rest, the airport provides various lounges, including VIP lounges for business class passengers and loyalty programme members. In these, you can relax in comfortable armchairs, have a snack, and enjoy beverages in a quiet atmosphere. If you have a long layover or an early departure, several hotels are located directly on the airport grounds and in the immediate vicinity.

All necessary services are also available to passengers. In the terminals, it is easy to find bank branches, ATMs, and currency exchange points. A 24-hour medical centre operates in case of illness or the need for medical assistance.

Hangzhou Xiaoshan Airport is well-equipped for passengers with special needs. For travellers with children, there are mother and child rooms equipped with changing tables and feeding areas. Passengers with reduced mobility can count on a barrier-free environment, including ramps and specially equipped toilets, as well as book assistance services through their airline.

At Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport (HGH), passengers have access to a wide choice of establishments for every taste and budget. Restaurants, cafes, and snack bars are located in all terminals, both in the public zone (landside) and in the secure zone (airside), allowing for a meal either before or after flight check-in.

For those wishing to enjoy local delicacies one last time, the airport offers restaurants specialising in Hangzhou cuisine. Here you can try famous dishes such as traditional Dongpo style delicacies or West Lake fish in sweet and sour sauce. These establishments are generally located in the main departure zone and present an excellent opportunity for a full lunch or dinner before your flight.

Besides local cuisine, the airport features many international fast-food chains, such as KFC, McDonald's, and Starbucks. These are ideal for a quick snack, a familiar breakfast, or simply a cup of coffee. Most of them operate from early morning until late evening, adapting to flight schedules.

Travellers with special dietary needs should pay attention to the menus of Chinese restaurants, where vegetarian dishes based on vegetables and tofu can often be found. Finding certified Halal or gluten-free options might be more challenging, so it is recommended to clarify ingredients with staff. The price range varies: from budget options in food courts to more expensive restaurants with à la carte service.

For those in a rush, coffee shops and fast-food outlets are the best choice. If you have time, we recommend visiting one of the restaurants in the airside zone, where the selection is usually wider and the atmosphere allows you to relax while waiting for your flight. Regardless of your preferences, at Hangzhou Airport you will definitely find a suitable option for yourself.

Travelling through Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport (HGH) will be easier and more pleasant if you prepare in advance. This is one of the busiest airports in China, so knowing a few nuances will help avoid stress and save time.

Arrival Time and Check-in. For international flights, it is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 3-4 hours before departure, and for domestic flights — 2-3 hours. Queues for check-in and security can be long, especially during national holidays. If possible, complete online check-in to save time at airline counters.

Security Checks. Security services at Chinese airports operate very thoroughly. Be prepared to remove all electronic devices from your hand luggage, including laptops, tablets, and power banks. Liquids must be in containers no larger than 100 ml and packed in a transparent bag. Pay special attention to power banks: they are permitted only in hand luggage, and they must have clear marking indicating capacity (usually no more than 20,000 mAh).

Seat Selection and Hand Luggage. When choosing a seat on the plane, be guided by your preferences: a window seat offers beautiful views during take-off and landing, while an aisle seat allows you to stand up freely without disturbing neighbours. In hand luggage, besides standard prohibited items, you cannot take lighters or matches. Always check the current rules of your airline.

Tips for Transit Passengers. If you have a connecting flight in Hangzhou, check in advance if you need to collect your luggage and check it in again. Follow the "Transit" or "Transfer" signs. For a comfortable transfer, allow at least 2-3 hours between flights, especially if a change of terminals or re-screening is required.

Customs Control. Upon entering the country, you will need to fill out an arrival card. Large sums of cash and certain goods are subject to declaration. The import of fresh fruit, vegetables, and meat products is usually prohibited. The customs control procedure on departure is standard and usually proceeds more quickly.

Saving Time and Money. To save money, bring an empty water bottle with you, which can be filled at drinking fountains after passing security. To travel to or from the city, use the metro or bus — this is significantly cheaper than a taxi. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, which helps you stay connected.

In Case of Flight Delay. If your flight is delayed, first contact your airline representative for information on the new departure time and possible compensation (food vouchers, beverages). Explore the opportunities the airport offers: there are many shops, restaurants, and comfortable waiting zones. If you have travel insurance, check if it covers cases of long delays.