How to get to Quzhou

Planning a trip to Quzhou, you will discover a vibrant historical centre located at the junction of four provinces in eastern China. Thanks to its strategic location, the question of how to get to Quzhou is easily solved: the city is served by flights, high-speed trains, and intercity buses. A developed transport network allows you to easily and comfortably include this city in any tour itinerary across the region.

The fastest way to reach the region is by air. The local Quzhou Airport (JUZ) connects the city with key metropolises across the country. The air gateway is conveniently located just a few kilometres from the city centre, allowing travellers to spend minimum time on the road after landing.

If a direct flight is not available, it is worth considering routes through neighbouring transport hubs. Within a radius of 100–125 kilometres, you will find the cities of Huangshan, Shangrao, and Yiwu, whose airports handle numerous domestic flights. From there, you can quickly reach your final destination by rail or bus, enjoying the picturesque views of eastern China.

Travelling by train is perhaps the most optimal and comfortable option for visiting this region. Quzhou serves as a major railway hub where dozens of high-speed trains stop. The developed network of railways allows tourists to reach the city quickly and without transfers, bypassing long car journeys.

Connections with key metropolises are particularly well-established. High-speed trains from Shanghai deliver passengers to their destination in just 2–2.5 hours, while a trip from Hangzhou will take slightly over an hour. Comfortable carriages and scenic landscapes outside the window turn the journey into a pleasure in itself, allowing you to rest before exploring the local attractions.

Bus travel is an excellent opportunity to enjoy the landscapes of eastern China while moving between neighbouring provinces on high-quality expressways. A trip from picturesque Huangshan will take about 2.5–3 hours, covering a distance of approximately 150 kilometres. Modern intercity coaches run regularly, ensuring a comfortable transfer directly to the city's main bus terminals.

Short routes from nearby transport hubs located within a radius of 100–120 kilometres are equally convenient. The journey from Shangrao or the bustling trade hub of Yiwu will take just 1.5–2 hours. This is a reliable and often more economical way to reach your destination, allowing for flexible travel planning without being tied to the train schedule.

Travelling by car offers freedom of movement and the chance to enjoy the scenery of the eastern provinces. The most dynamic route leads from the trade centre of Yiwu: covering a distance of about 140 kilometres takes approximately one and a half hours on a high-quality highway. The scenic road from Huangshan, famous for its mountains, will take about two hours, allowing you to witness the region's beauty from your car window.

An alternative starting point is the neighbouring city of Shangrao; travel time is less than two hours. Official taxis operate between these cities, with fares depending on the vehicle class and the use of toll roads, ensuring a comfortable transfer directly to your hotel.

Thorough preparation for your trip to Quzhou will help avoid minor inconveniences and allow you to fully focus on exploring the rich cultural heritage of this region. To ensure your journey through China is as comfortable and safe as possible, we have compiled a list of the most important recommendations for tourists.

1. Clothing and Gear: The climate here is humid subtropical, so in summer, choose light, breathable clothing made from natural fabrics, as the heat can be intense. In winter and early spring, multi-layered clothing and a waterproof jacket are essential, as indoor venues often lack central heating.
2. Transport Nuances: For getting around the city, it is most convenient to use taxis or ride-hailing services (via mini-programs in Alipay). Public transport is well-developed, but route maps are often only in Chinese, so save the names of your destinations in characters beforehand to show the driver.
3. Financial Matters: International bank cards are not accepted everywhere, mostly only in major hotels. It is highly recommended to install payment systems like Alipay or WeChat Pay and link your card to them—this is the primary payment method even in small shops; also keep a small supply of cash yuan.
4. Health and Safety: Tap water is not suitable for drinking; please buy only bottled water. Pharmacies are marked with a green cross, but pharmacists rarely speak English, so it is best to bring a basic first-aid kit and the names of necessary medications in Chinese (screenshots).
5. Communication and Connectivity: English is not widely spoken in the city. Download an offline translator with voice input and photo translation functions on your smartphone in advance—this will be your main assistant for communication, reading menus, and navigation.
6. Local Etiquette: It is customary to greet locals with a slight nod or a handshake, while avoiding overly close physical contact. Business cards, money, or gifts should be offered and received with both hands—this is considered a sign of deep respect for the other person.
7. What to Avoid: Be cautious with local cuisine if you have a sensitive stomach: Quzhou is famous for its spicy dishes ("Three Heads"), which are significantly spicier than in other parts of the province. Also, avoid the services of unlicensed private drivers at stations and the airport.
8. Additional Tip: Always carry your passport or a high-quality copy of it. The document may be required not only when checking into a hotel but also when purchasing tickets for certain attractions or for intercity transport.

Following these simple rules will make your visit to Quzhou pleasant and trouble-free. Respect for local traditions and a little technical preparation will open the doors to the genuine hospitality and beauty of this historic city.