How to get to Nanyang

When planning a journey to China, many tourists wonder how to get to Nanyang — an ancient city in Henan province, renowned for its rich cultural heritage and picturesque landscapes. This important regional hub boasts excellent transport accessibility, so you can reach it in various ways: from a quick flight and a comfortable ride on a high-speed train to a journey by intercity bus or car. The developed infrastructure allows you to easily organize a trip to this colourful corner of the country, choosing the route that best suits your needs.

The fastest and most comfortable way to reach the city is by air. The region is served by Nanyang Jiangying Airport (NNY), located in close proximity to the city centre, allowing tourists to save significant time on transfers after landing.

The air hub receives regular domestic flights from the country's key metropolises. You can get here via direct routes from Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen. Thanks to this, travellers can easily plan a trip with a convenient connection in one of China's major international hubs.

Rail transport is one of the most popular and convenient ways to get to Nanyang. The city is perfectly integrated into the national transport network of China, offering travellers a choice between the speed of modern express trains and the affordability of classic trains.

Two key railway hubs operate in the city. Nanyang East Station accommodates modern high-speed trains connecting the region with Zhengzhou, Beijing, and other major metropolises. For those choosing more budget-friendly routes or travelling on standard trains, Nanyang Station is available, located within the city limits.

Intercity buses remain a sought-after and budget-friendly way to get to Nanyang, especially for those travelling from neighbouring regions where rail connections may be less direct. One of the most convenient routes is from Xiangyang: the bus covers the distance of about 140 kilometres in an average of two hours. The road from Xinyang is no less scenic, taking around three hours, allowing tourists to enjoy views of Henan province from the window of a comfortable coach.

For travellers departing from Shiyan, the trip will take a little longer — about four hours to cover 280 kilometres. Modern Chinese expressways ensure a smooth ride, and the high frequency of departures offers the flexibility to arrive in the city without being strictly tied to train schedules.

Travelling by car offers you freedom of movement and the opportunity to enjoy the landscapes of central China at your own pace. The fastest route leads from neighbouring Xiangyang: the distance of 140 kilometres along a modern highway is easily covered in one and a half to two hours. The scenic road from Xinyang will take a bit longer — about three hours for a journey of nearly 200 kilometres.

A longer drive awaits tourists leaving from Shiyan — they will have to drive about 280 kilometres, which usually takes around four hours. Taxi services and private transfers are well-developed in the region; however, the cost of such a voyage between cities will be significantly higher than public transport and may depend on your negotiation skills or the chosen aggregator app.

Thorough preparation for your trip to Nanyang will allow you to avoid daily inconveniences and fully immerse yourself in exploring the city's rich history. We have prepared a list of practical recommendations to help organize a comfortable and safe journey through this part of China.

1. Clothing and Essentials: The climate here is humid subtropical, so in summer, it is advisable to choose modest, light clothing made of natural breathable fabrics and a hat for sun protection. In winter, temperatures can drop to zero or slightly below, so a warm windproof jacket and jumper are essential, as is comfortable footwear for long walks.
2. Transport: The most convenient way to move around the city is via official taxis or by booking a car through popular Chinese apps (such as DiDi). City buses are very cheap, but navigating the routes without knowledge of characters can be challenging.
3. Finances: The national currency is the Chinese Yuan. International bank cards are rarely accepted, mostly only in large chain hotels. It is highly recommended to carry a supply of cash or set up Alipay or WeChat Pay on your smartphone in advance, as these are used universally.
4. Health and Safety: The city is considered safe for tourists, but it is important to look after personal belongings in crowded places. It is strictly not recommended to drink tap water — please purchase bottled water. It is also worth bringing a first-aid kit with your usual medications, as finding equivalents locally can be difficult due to the language barrier.
5. Communication: English is not widely spoken in Nanyang. Before your trip, be sure to download an offline translator to your phone with voice input and photo translation functions (for reading menus and signs) — this will be your main tool for communication.
6. Local Etiquette: Be polite and reserved; respect for elders plays a huge role here. At the table, remember an important rule: never stick chopsticks vertically into a bowl of rice — this is a bad omen associated with funeral rites.
7. What to Avoid: Try not to use the services of unlicensed taxi drivers at stations and the airport, as they often inflate prices for foreigners. Always request that the meter be switched on at the start of the trip.
8. Additional Tip: Nanyang is known as one of the largest centres for jade trading. If you decide to buy jewellery or a souvenir at a local market, do not hesitate to bargain — this is a common practice that can help significantly reduce the price.

Following these simple rules will help you feel confident in any situation. Nanyang is a hospitable city, and by showing a little attention to local traditions and preparing technically, you are sure to get plenty of positive emotions from your trip.