How to get to Yichun

When planning to travel to Yichun, located in the picturesque Jiangxi province in southeastern China, you are choosing a journey to a land of renowned hot springs and natural beauty. To decide how to get to Yichun, it is worth considering several convenient options: from a quick flight to a journey by train or bus. The developed transport infrastructure allows you to visit this colourful city with comfort, enjoying the views along the way.

The fastest and most comfortable way to reach the region is by air. The city is served by its own airport, Yichun Mingyueshan Airport (IATA code: YIC), located approximately 20 kilometres from the city centre and the famous resort zones.

The airport focuses primarily on domestic routes. Regular direct flights arrive here from the country's key metropolises, such as Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen, Guangzhou, and Kunming. For international tourists, this means a transfer is necessary at one of these major international hubs. The flight time from the capital of China is about 3 hours.

Upon arrival, you can reach the city by taxi or shuttle buses, the schedules of which are usually coordinated with flight arrivals. The compact size of the terminal allows you to complete all formalities quickly and head to your holiday destination without delay.

For those who prefer ground transport, Yichun offers excellent opportunities thanks to its developed railway connections. Unlike many smaller towns, it has its own railway station serving both regular and high-speed trains running along the Shanghai — Kunming line.

The most convenient way to reach the resort is by high-speed train. The trip from the neighbouring major hub, the city of Changsha, takes less than an hour, and from the provincial capital, Nanchang, about 45 minutes. Direct train services are also available from Shanghai and Hangzhou, allowing you to comfortably combine visits to these metropolises with relaxation at the hot springs.

The railway station is located within the city limits, eliminating the need for long transfers after arrival. Directly from the station, you can take a taxi or board a bus to reach your hotel or the region's main attractions.

A bus journey is an excellent way to enjoy the scenic views of Jiangxi province on the way to Yichun. The shortest route runs from neighbouring Pingxiang: the bus covers the distance of about 80 kilometres in just one and a half hours. The journey from the city of Ji'an, located to the south, takes slightly longer, about two to three hours.

For tourists arriving from the neighbouring Hunan province, a convenient option is a service from Changsha, which is approximately 220 kilometres away. The travel time is about three and a half hours, allowing you to reach your destination in comfort on modern intercity coaches. It is advisable to purchase tickets in advance at bus station counters, as this route is consistently popular.

Travelling by car through Jiangxi province is a wonderful chance to see picturesque hills and rice fields on the way to the famous hot springs. The shortest and least tiring route leads from the city of Pingxiang: the distance of about 80 kilometres can be comfortably covered in just an hour, making booking a taxi a very reasonable choice. A trip from the major centre of Changsha will take about two hours, as the cities are separated by approximately 160 kilometres of modern expressway.

If you plan to depart from the city of Ji'an, the road will take about two and a half hours, covering around 190 kilometres. Travelling by taxi or a rented car with a driver ensures maximum schedule flexibility, though it is worth noting that intercity fares here are quite high compared to public transport. Most highways in this region are toll roads, but they are distinguished by excellent surface quality, allowing you to reach your destination without unnecessary stress.

Preparing for a trip to Yichun requires attention to detail to ensure your introduction to this "Moon Capital" is as comfortable as possible. We have compiled a list of practical recommendations to help you navigate the city easily and enjoy your holiday without worries.

1. Clothing and Gear: The climate in the region is humid subtropical. Summers are hot, so choose light, natural fabrics, while in winter and the off-season, warm clothes are essential as central heating is not available everywhere. Since the main attraction is Mingyueshan Mountain, bring comfortable trekking shoes for long walks on steps and trails.
2. Transport: Within the city, taxis are the most convenient and accessible mode of transport. Buses run between the centre and the resort zones, but a taxi will save you a significant amount of time. It is recommended to download Chinese ride-hailing apps in advance or ask hotel staff to assist with booking.
3. Finances: In China, mobile payments via Alipay and WeChat Pay dominate, and you can link a foreign card to them — this is the most reliable payment method. Cash (Yuan) is accepted, but change is not always available. Visa and Mastercard work rarely, mostly only in large international hotels.
4. Communication: English is not widely spoken in Yichun. Be sure to install an offline translator app on your smartphone with voice input and photo translation features. This is an indispensable tool for communicating in restaurants and shops.
5. Navigation and Addresses: Always carry the name of your hotel and desired attractions written in Chinese characters (on your phone screen or a business card). Show these to taxi drivers, as English names or pronunciation may not be understood.
6. Health and Safety: Do not drink tap water; buy bottled water instead. The city is safe for tourists, but in nature parks and bamboo forests, there may be mosquitoes and gnats, so having repellent is mandatory.
7. What to Avoid: Do not use the services of unlicensed drivers at the airport or train station, as this may lead to overcharging. Also, try to avoid travelling during national holidays when popular spots are overcrowded.
8. Resort Features: Yichun is famous for its selenium-rich hot springs. An important nuance: unlike Japanese traditions, here it is customary to enter communal thermal pools exclusively in swimwear, so do not forget to pack your swimsuit or trunks in your suitcase.

Following these simple rules will help you avoid logistical difficulties and fully focus on wellness and contemplating nature. Yichun is a hospitable city, and a little preparation will make your journey truly pleasant.