How to get to Wudalianchi

Are you planning a trip to the unique volcanic landscapes and therapeutic springs in northeastern China? If you are looking for information on how to get to Wudalianchi, this famous resort and geopark is ready to offer travellers unforgettable experiences. You can reach this amazing corner of nature in various ways — by plane, train, or bus, choosing the most comfortable route for your adventure.

The fastest and most convenient way to reach the resort is by air. The city is served by Wudalianchi (Dedu) Airport, which receives regular flights, connecting this unique corner of China with major transport hubs.

Typically, the main flow of tourists arrives via transit through Harbin. The flight from the provincial capital takes only about an hour, which saves significant time compared to travelling by train or bus. Upon landing in Wudalianchi, you will find yourself in immediate proximity to the famous volcanoes and health resorts.

Rail transport is a popular and affordable way to get to the resort. Direct trains arrive at Wudalianchi Station, located at some distance from the tourist zone, or at the major junction station of Bei'an. From there, travellers need to take a taxi or a scheduled bus to reach the health resorts and the volcanic park directly.

Routes often pass through major cities of the province, such as Harbin, Qiqihar, and Heihe. Travelling by train allows you not only to save money but also to see the picturesque landscapes of Northeast China. Drivers are usually waiting at the stations, ready to take tourists to their places of accommodation and treatment.

Bus services connect the resort area with neighbouring urban centres, offering tourists an affordable transport option. The route from the border city of Heihe is particularly in demand: covering a distance of about 250 kilometres will take approximately 4 hours. This is a convenient choice for travellers entering the country via the river border who want to head straight to the healing springs.

Regular services also depart from other important transport hubs. The trip from Nenjiang is considered the fastest and lasts only about an hour, as the city is located less than 80 kilometres from the resort. Tourists departing from Qiqihar should expect to spend approximately 5 hours on the road: the bus needs to cover a distance of about 350 kilometres.

Travelling by car allows you to plan your time flexibly and enjoy the scenic views of Heilongjiang province on the way to the resort. Nenjiang is the closest: the trip will take only about an hour, as you have to cover less than 80 kilometres. A longer but comfortable journey awaits those departing from the city of Qiqihar — a distance of about 275 kilometres can be covered in approximately 3 hours and 15 minutes.

Many tourists choose the route through Heihe, located on the border with Russia: a road about 250–280 kilometres long will take just over three hours by car. You can use intercity taxi services, but it is recommended to discuss a fixed price for the trip with the driver in advance, as a trip by taximeter for such distances may turn out to be more expensive. The road infrastructure in this part of China is quite developed, making a road trip to Wudalianchi a convenient option for a group or family.

Preparing for a trip to Wudalianchi requires attention to detail, as it is not just a city, but a unique balneological resort amidst volcanoes. To ensure your holiday is as comfortable as possible and beneficial to your health, we have collected the most relevant recommendations for tourists.

1. Clothing and Footwear. The main rule for visiting the volcanic park is comfortable, closed shoes with flat soles. You will have to walk a lot, often on the uneven surface of solidified lava, so trainers would be the ideal choice. The climate here is sharply continental: even in summer, evenings can be cool, so be sure to bring a windbreaker or a warm jumper.
2. Transport within the city. Wudalianchi is a small resort, and public transport here is not as widely developed as in metropolises. The most convenient way to get around is by taxi. It is recommended to agree on the cost of the trip with the driver in advance or ensure the taximeter is turned on, as there are often no fixed tariffs for tourists.
3. Finances. The official currency is the Chinese Yuan. Exchanging Dollars or Euros on the spot can be problematic, so it is better to do this in advance or withdraw cash from an ATM of a major bank. International Visa and Mastercard cards are rarely accepted. The ideal option is to install Alipay or WeChat Pay apps, to which you can link a foreign card for payments.
4. Water Consumption Guidelines. The local mineral water has strong medicinal properties and a high iron content. Medical professionals strongly recommend drinking it through a straw to avoid darkening of tooth enamel. Also, do not consume the water in unlimited quantities without consulting a specialist — it is medicine, not just a beverage.
5. Language Barrier. English is practically not used in Wudalianchi. In health resorts oriented towards tourists from CIS countries, staff may understand a little Russian, but do not rely on this in shops and taxis. Be sure to download an offline translator with voice input function and a map of the area in Chinese on your smartphone.
6. Protection from Insects. If you are planning a trip in the summer months (July-August), be prepared for a large number of mosquitoes and midges, especially near lakes and springs. Be sure to bring high-quality repellents and, if possible, a fumigator for your hotel room.
7. What to Avoid. Do not attempt to explore remote areas of lava fields without paths on your own. Volcanic rock is very sharp and unstable — you can easily get injured or ruin your shoes. Also, avoid buying expensive medicines and herbs at street stalls without certificates — there is a high risk of counterfeits.
8. Useful Souvenir. Many tourists buy special flat teapots or mugs for mineral water on the spot. This is not only an authentic souvenir but also a practical item that allows you to conveniently collect water from sources and drink it correctly.

Following these simple tips will help you avoid everyday inconveniences and focus on the main thing — restoring your strength and contemplating the rugged beauty of nature in China. Wudalianchi is a hospitable place that, with proper preparation, will give you only positive emotions.