How to get to Jilin City

When planning a visit to Jilin, you will be embarking on a journey to a vibrant city in the north-east of China, renowned for its picturesque river landscapes and unique winter rime ice. Figuring out how to reach this destination is straightforward: a well-developed transport network allows you to travel here comfortably by high-speed train, bus, or car, as well as by air. Whichever mode of transport you choose, the journey will be a pleasant and convenient start to your acquaintance with this remarkable region.

When searching for flight tickets, it is important to note that although the city has its own IATA code (JIL), the local airport is currently rarely used for civil passenger transport. The main air gateway for tourists is Changchun Longjia International Airport.

This major aviation hub is strategically located between the two cities and receives flights from all over China and neighbouring countries. Arriving here is the optimal solution: you can transfer to the railway station directly from the airport terminal. A high-speed train will take you to the centre of Jilin in just 30–40 minutes, making the journey quick and comfortable.

Travelling by train is one of the most convenient and scenic ways to reach this region. The main transport hub is Jilin Railway Station, located near the city centre, which accommodates both high-speed express trains and regular passenger services. The station's modern infrastructure and intuitive navigation make arrival exceptionally comfortable for tourists.

Rail connections link the city closely with its neighbours, allowing for easy planning of complex itineraries. The main flow of travellers arrives via Changchun, from where the journey takes minimal time due to the short distance. The schedule also includes regular services from the cities of Siping and Songyuan, ensuring stable connectivity with other parts of the province.

Bus services in this region are excellently developed, and the roads boast high-quality surfaces, making a bus journey a fine alternative to the train. The most popular route connects Jilin with neighbouring Changchun: buses depart regularly, covering a distance of about 100 kilometres in just one and a half to two hours. This is an ideal option for those who wish to enjoy the views from the window without being tied to a rigid railway schedule.

For travellers heading from other parts of the province, convenient direct services are available from the cities of Siping and Songyuan. The journey from these points usually takes between three to four hours, allowing you to cover approximately 200–250 kilometres in comfort. Modern intercity buses are generally equipped with everything necessary for a pleasant trip, making them a reliable way to reach your destination.

Travelling by car across north-east China offers a wonderful opportunity to witness the changing landscapes at your own pace and with maximum comfort. The shortest and most popular route leads from the city of Changchun: the distance of about 100 kilometres can be covered in just one and a half hours via a modern expressway. Many tourists also choose intercity taxis for this direction, allowing for a quick door-to-door transfer without worrying about navigation or parking.

The drive from the cities of Siping and Songyuan will take slightly longer — usually between two and a half to three hours. You will need to drive about 200–230 kilometres along high-quality toll roads that link key points of the region into a unified network. A car journey is a successful solution for those who value independence from schedules and wish to make spontaneous stops at picturesque locations along the way.

Preparing for a trip to Jilin requires attention to detail to ensure your journey proceeds smoothly and leaves only pleasant memories. We have compiled useful recommendations to help you feel comfortable in this picturesque corner of China.

1. Clothing and Weather. The climate here is sharply continental. If you are travelling in winter to admire the famous "rime ice fairytale" on the trees, it is essential to pack thermal underwear, a windproof down jacket, a warm hat, and gloves — temperatures often drop below -20°C. In summer, however, it is warm and humid, so light, breathable clothing and a raincoat will be useful.
2. Getting Around the City. Taxis are the most accessible and convenient mode of transport, but drivers rarely speak English. Always carry a hotel card or the name of your destination written in Chinese characters. You can also use city buses, where the fare is very inexpensive.
3. Finances and Payment. Although the official currency is the Yuan, cash is used less and less frequently. Visa and Mastercard are accepted only in major international hotels. For seamless transactions, it is highly recommended to install the Alipay or WeChat Pay applications in advance and link your card to them — this is the primary method of payment everywhere, from restaurants to street kiosks.
4. Connectivity and Internet. Please remember that familiar Western services (Google, messaging apps, social networks) are blocked in the country. Before your trip, be sure to install a reliable VPN or purchase a tourist eSIM that automatically bypasses restrictions, so you can stay in touch with your loved ones.
5. Language Barrier. The English language is not widely spoken in the city outside of tourist zones. Download an offline translator app to your smartphone with voice input and photo translation functions (for example, to read menus or signs) — this will significantly facilitate communication.
6. Health and Hygiene. Tap water is not suitable for drinking; please purchase bottled water from supermarkets. It is also advisable to pack a small first-aid kit with familiar medicines (for stomach upsets, colds, painkillers), as finding specific equivalents in local pharmacies without knowing the language can be difficult.
7. Local Etiquette. Tipping in restaurants and taxis is not customary. Greetings are usually limited to a nod or a slight bow. If you are handing money or a business card to someone, please do so with both hands — this is a sign of respect towards the other person.
8. What to Avoid. Try not to plan your trip during national holidays (Chinese New Year, "Golden Week" in early October). During these times, transport and attractions are overcrowded with domestic tourists, and accommodation prices rise significantly.

Following these simple rules will help you avoid practical difficulties and focus on what matters most — the unique nature and atmosphere of the city. May your journey be easy, safe, and filled with vivid impressions!