How to get to Qiqihar

Qiqihar is a vibrant city in the Heilongjiang province of Northeast China, renowned for its natural beauty and rich history. If you are deciding how to get to Qiqihar, a developed transport network connects the region with other parts of the country. You can arrive here in various ways: by a quick flight, a scenic train route, or by bus, making the journey convenient for any traveller.

The fastest and most comfortable way to reach your destination is by air. The city is served by its own airport, Qiqihar Sanjiazi (NDG), which accepts regular flights and ensures reliable connections with other regions.

The air hub is connected by direct routes to the largest metropolises of China. You can fly here from Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Dalian, and other cities. For international tourists, this means that the journey to Qiqihar will likely include one convenient transfer at a major international hub.

The airport is located just 13 km from the city centre. Upon arrival, travellers can use taxi services, with a rank located at the terminal exit, or take a shuttle bus that runs between the airport and major city districts. The journey to your hotel usually takes very little time.

Traveling by train is an excellent choice for those who wish to reach Qiqihar with comfort. The city serves as an important railway hub in Northeast China, making it easily accessible from many corners of the country thanks to a developed network of routes.

High-speed trains are particularly popular with travellers. For instance, the journey from Harbin takes only about an hour and a half, making the trip quick and tireless. Regular direct service is also established with Beijing, Dalian, and other major cities, allowing for flexible connection planning.

Several stations operate in the city, with the South Station (Qiqihar South) often being the main one for tourists, as it accommodates the majority of high-speed trains. From here, you can easily reach the city centre or your hotel by taxi and public transport.

A bus journey to Qiqihar is a great way to witness the changing landscapes of the country's northeast and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. The route from neighboring Daqing is considered one of the most convenient and fastest: comfortable coaches cover the distance of 160 kilometres in approximately 2–2.5 hours. Bus services from picturesque Zhalantun are also popular, with the road taking about 3–3.5 hours.

For travellers departing from Ulanhot, the journey will be longer but no less interesting. Buses cover a distance of about 300 kilometres in an average of 4–5 hours, making the trip manageable thanks to high-quality highways. Intercity services usually arrive at the city's main bus terminal, from where it is easy to get to the centre by taxi or public transport.

Traveling by car to Qiqihar allows you to plan stops independently and enjoy the views of Northeast China. The fastest route runs from the city of Daqing: a distance of about 150 kilometres along the expressway is easily covered in 1.5–2 hours. The road from neighboring Zhalantun is slightly longer—approximately 190 kilometres, which will require about 2.5–3 hours of driving.

Travellers departing from Ulanhot will have to drive about 300 kilometres, which usually takes 3.5–4 hours. For those who do not plan to rent a car, an intercity taxi is a convenient option: the trip will cost a reasonable amount, especially if expenses are shared among a group, though it is important to agree in advance on including toll road fees.

Preparing for a trip to Qiqihar requires attention to detail, especially considering the climatic features of Northeast China. To ensure your journey goes smoothly and leaves only pleasant impressions, we have compiled several useful recommendations to help you feel confident in your new surroundings.

1. Clothing and Seasonality. The climate here is sharply continental. If you plan a visit in winter (from November to March), be sure to bring thermal underwear, a windproof down jacket, a hat, and warm shoes with thick soles—temperatures can drop to -30°C. Summer is warm and humid, but evenings can be cool, so even in July, it is worth packing a light windbreaker or jumper.
2. Getting Around the City. The most convenient way for a tourist to move around is by taxi, the prices for which are quite reasonable here. We recommend installing Chinese ride-hailing apps on your smartphone in advance or asking the hotel receptionist to help with booking. City buses run regularly, but navigating the routes without knowing the language can be difficult.
3. Money and Payment. The main currency is the Chinese Yuan (RMB). International Visa and Mastercard cards are accepted extremely rarely, mostly only in large chain hotels. The best solution is to install Alipay or WeChat Pay apps in advance and link your card to them (if possible) or always carry a sufficient supply of cash, broken down into small notes.
4. Health and Water. Qiqihar is a safe city, but drinking tap water is strictly not recommended; please buy bottled water in supermarkets. Pharmacies are frequently found, but drug names are listed in Chinese characters. Pack a small medicine kit with familiar medications (for colds, stomach upsets, allergies) while still at home.
5. Language Barrier. English is not widely spoken here, especially among taxi drivers and shop assistants. Be sure to download an offline translator to your phone with voice input and photo translation functions (for example, for reading menus). It is also useful to have a hotel card with the address written in Chinese.
6. Local Etiquette. The Chinese value politeness. Greetings are usually limited to a slight nod or a handshake. At the table, observe an important rule: never stick chopsticks vertically into a bowl of rice—this resembles funeral incense and is considered a bad omen.
7. Caution on the Roads. Pedestrians should be extremely attentive. Even at a pedestrian crossing ("zebra crossing") and on a green traffic light, drivers turning right often do not yield to people. Always look both ways and move in the flow with local residents.
8. Unique Experience. When planning your time, be sure to set aside half a day for a trip to the Zhalong Nature Reserve. This is the "City of Cranes," and seeing these noble birds in their natural habitat is a rare stroke of luck. Check the bird feeding schedule in advance to catch the most spectacular show.

By following these simple practical tips, you can avoid domestic inconveniences and fully focus on exploring the culture and nature of this interesting region. A little preparation—and your journey will become a comfortable and memorable adventure.