How to get to Tengchong

Located in the picturesque Yunnan province in southwest China, Tengchong is famous for its volcanic landscapes, hot springs, and rich historical heritage. When planning how to reach Tengchong, travelers can choose the most convenient option from a variety of available routes: you can fly to this resort city by plane, travel by bus or car, or use combined itineraries involving rail transport.

The main aerial gateway for travelers is Tengchong Tuofeng Airport, located just 10–12 kilometers from the city limits. This modern high-altitude air terminal receives regular flights from Kunming, Chengdu, and other major cities, ensuring a comfortable and quick arrival directly to your holiday destination. A trip from the terminal to the city center by taxi or bus usually takes no more than 20 minutes.

As an alternative option, you can consider flying to neighboring Baoshan. This may be convenient for those who wish to create a more flexible itinerary or could not find tickets for a direct flight. However, logistics should be considered when planning: the actual road distance from Baoshan Airport to Tengchong is about 150 kilometers. Travel time by car or intercity bus will take 2–3 hours, which must be factored into your travel schedule.

There is currently no direct railway connection to the city itself, so it is not possible to reach Tengchong directly by train. The optimal option for travelers is to take a high-speed express to the station in neighboring Baoshan, which serves as a key transfer hub in the region. A modern railway line connects this city with Kunming and other major centers, ensuring a fast and comfortable journey through the scenic landscapes of the country's southwest.

From the Baoshan station to the final destination, you will have to travel another approximate 150 kilometers by intercity bus or taxi. The journey along winding mountain roads will take 2–3 hours, but this time will fly by thanks to the breathtaking views outside the window. This combined method of travel is often chosen by tourists wishing to see more of the natural beauty of Yunnan province on their way to the famous hot springs.

Bus travel is one of the most popular and affordable ways to reach the resort, especially if you are traveling from neighboring Baoshan. The distance between the cities is about 150 kilometers, and the trip along the modern expressway takes only 2–3 hours. This is the most convenient logistical option for those arriving in the region by train: buses run frequently and provide a comfortable transfer through picturesque valleys directly to your destination.

For those who prefer ground transport, there are convenient routes from other popular tourist centers in Yunnan province — Kunming, Dali, and Lijiang. The journey from Kunming is quite long (about 10 hours), so comfortable "sleeper" buses often operate on this line, allowing you to rest on the road. The trip from Dali will take less time — approximately 6–7 hours, offering travelers breathtaking views of mountain landscapes.

The region's road infrastructure is actively developing, and modern highways make the trip untiring. Driving across the Longjiang River Bridge — one of the highest in Asia — makes a special impression. All intercity flights arrive at the main tourist bus station, from where it is easy to reach any point in the city by taxi.

The most logical and comfortable choice for car travelers will be the route from neighboring Baoshan. The distance between the cities is only 143 kilometers, which is easily covered in approximately 2 hours along a modern highway. This is an excellent opportunity to enjoy freedom of movement and picturesque mountain scenery on the way to Tengchong, and the high quality of the road surface will make the trip pleasant and untiring.

Travelers can also reach the resort from Dali or Kunming by following the G56 expressway. Although the journey from Kunming will take about 8–9 hours, and from Dali — approximately 4–5 hours, these routes are popular due to the breathtaking views. The main highlight of the trip will be driving across the grand Longjiang Bridge — one of the highest suspension bridges in Asia, which literally soars above a deep green valley, turning the transfer into a real adventure.

A trip to Tengchong promises to be an unforgettable adventure filled with the beauty of volcanic landscapes and cultural discoveries. To ensure your trip to this picturesque part of China goes smoothly and without unnecessary hassle, we have prepared a list of useful recommendations.

1. Clothing and Equipment. The climate in the region is mild and comfortable year-round, but the weather can be changeable. It is recommended to dress in layers: it can be warm during the day, while evenings are often cool. Be sure to bring comfortable, broken-in shoes for walking through the volcanic park and the paved streets of old villages, and do not forget a light raincoat during the rainy season (from June to October).
2. Transport Nuances. There is no metro in the city, so the main mode of transport for tourists is taxis or ride-hailing services (such as the Chinese equivalent of Uber — DiDi). Public transport is inexpensive, but routes can be difficult to understand without knowing the language. Always have the name of your hotel and necessary attractions written in Chinese characters to show the driver.
3. Finances and Payments. In China, mobile payments via Alipay or WeChat Pay apps are used almost everywhere, to which international cards can now be linked. Cash is accepted, but change is not always available. Familiar plastic cards like Visa or Mastercard work only in major hotels or ATMs, so it is better to set up the app in advance and have a small supply of cash in yuan.
4. Health and Protection. Tengchong is located at a medium altitude, so UV radiation here can be stronger than it seems at first glance — be sure to use sunscreen and wear a hat. The city is safe, but it is always worth having a small first-aid kit with familiar medicines, as drug names in local pharmacies are listed only in Chinese.
5. Language Barrier. English is rarely understood here, even in the service sector. Download an offline translator with voice input and photo translation functions to your smartphone in advance. This is critically important for reading menus in restaurants and communicating with locals.
6. Local Etiquette. The residents of Yunnan province are friendly and hospitable. When visiting temples, maintain silence and dress modestly. If something is handed to you (for example, a business card or change), it is polite to accept it with both hands — this is a sign of respect.
7. Caution with Shopping. Tengchong is known as a jade processing center, and there are hundreds of shops with products made from this stone. However, tourists should avoid spontaneous purchases of expensive jewelry if you are not professionally knowledgeable about stones: the risk of buying a fake or overpaying is quite high. Buy souvenirs only in certified stores.
8. Tip for Hot Springs. Since the region is famous for its thermal waters, visiting spa complexes is a mandatory part of the program. It is important to know that unlike Japanese onsens, in Chinese hot springs it is customary to bathe exclusively in swimwear, so be sure to bring it with you.

By following these simple tips, you can avoid common difficulties and fully focus on exploring the unique atmosphere of Tengchong. Be open to new experiences, and this city will give you plenty of vivid impressions and warm memories.